September 21

Born in 1751 in Memmingen, Schikaneder began his career as an actor and singer, eventually founding the popular Theater auf der Wieden in Vienna. A charismatic impresario, he cultivated audiences with innovative productions combining music, magic, and drama. His most enduring contribution was writing the libretto for Mozart's The Magic Flute in 1791, a masterpiece of the operatic repertory. Schikaneder also performed the role of Papageno at the premiere, showcasing his comedic talents. His entrepreneurial spirit and collaborations with leading composers cemented his reputation as a pioneering figure in late 18th-century Viennese theater.

Osgood Perkins, born in 1892 in West Newton, Massachusetts, graduated from Harvard University before embarking on a prolific acting career. He became a prominent figure on Broadway, starring in acclaimed productions such as The Green Bay Tree. Transitioning to film in the 1920s, Perkins appeared in silent movies and early talkies, earning praise for his versatility. He was celebrated for roles in plays by Noël Coward and John Barrymore, showcasing a talent for both drama and subtle humor. Perkins’s legacy continued through his son, Anthony Perkins, who cited his father’s influence on his own acting career.

Harry Carey was born in 1878 in New York City and became one of Hollywood’s earliest Western stars. He appeared in over 200 films, working with directors like John Ford to define the cowboy hero archetype. In addition to acting, Carey directed and produced several features, showcasing his versatility behind the camera. He received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Mr. Deeds Goes to Town (1936). His career spanned from the silent era through the Golden Age of Hollywood, influencing generations of actors and filmmakers. Carey died in 1947, leaving a legacy as a true Hollywood pioneer.

Walter Brennan (1894-1974) was an American actor renowned for his portrayals of grizzled sidekicks and eccentric personalities. His film career spanned over five decades, beginning in silent westerns and culminating in television roles. Brennan won his first Oscar for 'Come and Get It' (1936), followed by wins for 'Kentucky' (1938) and 'The Westerner' (1940). He brought warmth and authenticity to characters such as Grandpa Amos McCoy in the TV series 'The Real McCoys'. Brennan's distinctive voice and earthy charm made him a beloved figure in Hollywood. He appeared in classics like 'Rio Bravo' and 'Sergeant York', leaving a lasting imprint on the Western genre. Off-screen, Brennan was a passionate outdoorsman and dedicated family man. His record of three supporting actor Oscars remains unmatched to this day.

Jacqueline Susann (1918-1974) burst onto the literary scene with her 1966 novel 'Valley of the Dolls,' which became one of the best-selling books of all time. Drawing from her own experiences in Hollywood, she crafted a racy, candid portrayal of fame, addiction, and ambition among three women. Prior to her writing success, Susann pursued acting, appearing on stage and television in the 1950s. Her unapologetically frank style and marketing savvy helped her break sales records in the male-dominated publishing industry. She followed up with popular novels like 'The Love Machine' and 'Once Is Not Enough.' Despite critical scorn, Susann's work tapped into the zeitgeist and influenced generations of celebrity fiction. She remains a pioneering figure in commercial literature. Susann's career exemplifies the power of tenacity and self-promotion in the creative world.

Born in Stockholm in 1915, Birgit Tengroth began her acting career on stage as a teenager. She rose to fame in the 1930s, starring in more than 40 Swedish films. Tengroth was known for her naturalistic style and ability to portray complex modern women. She worked with acclaimed directors such as Gustaf Molander and Alf Sjöberg. In the 1950s, she transitioned to writing, publishing novels, essays, and children's books. Her contributions to Swedish culture as both an actress and author have left a lasting legacy.

Born in 1952, Bob Mason began his career on the British stage, honing his craft in regional theatre companies. He transitioned to television and appeared in various dramas and series throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Alongside acting, Mason wrote screenplays for both television projects and independent films. His dual talents earned him respect among colleagues in the industry, though he kept a relatively low profile with the public. Mason's work demonstrated versatility as both a character actor and a creative writer. He died in 2004, remembered for his contributions behind and in front of the camera.

Born in 1923 in Eve, Missouri, Alice Ghostley trained in theater and made her Broadway debut before transitioning to television and film. She gained fame for her quirky character roles, such as the lovable Enchantra in 'Bewitched' and the eccentric Bernice Clifton on 'Designing Women.' Ghostley also appeared in movies like 'To Kill a Mockingbird' and lent her voice to animated projects. Her expressive features and impeccable timing made her a favorite among audiences and directors alike. Over a career spanning more than five decades, she earned a Tony nomination and several Emmy nominations. Ghostley died in 2007, leaving a legacy of memorable performances.

Born in Brooklyn in 1948, Robert Ginty trained as a stage actor before transitioning to film and television. He gained fame with the 1980 cult classic The Exterminator, portraying Vietnam veteran John Eastland. Ginty wrote, directed, and starred in several low-budget action and thriller projects during the 1980s. On television, he appeared in series such as The Paper Chase and made numerous guest appearances. His commitment to independent filmmaking and genre cinema earned him a dedicated fan base. Ginty's legacy endures through his contributions to cult action cinema and genre storytelling.

Sheldon Patinkin (1935–2014) was an American theater director, playwright, and scholar. He played a pivotal role in the development of modern improvisational comedy, working with prominent theater companies. Patinkin served as an artistic director for influential ensembles, guiding productions that combined humor with thought-provoking themes. As a teacher and lecturer, he shared his deep knowledge of theater history and mentored emerging writers and actors. His own plays often explored human relationships and social issues with wit and insight. Patinkin's dedication to the arts helped foster vibrant theater communities in both the United States and abroad. His legacy continues through the performers and writers he inspired.

Willie Garson (1964–2021) was an actor whose career spanned film, television, and theater. He portrayed Stanford Blatch, Carrie Bradshaw's witty friend, on the hit series Sex and the City, earning him widespread praise. Garson also starred as Mozzie in the TV series White Collar, showcasing his comic timing. He appeared in over 100 productions and was admired for his versatility and warmth. Garson trained at Wesleyan University and performed in regional theaters early in his career. His generosity and mentorship made a lasting impact on aspiring actors.