September 25

Born in 1897, Frank Fay gained fame on Broadway and in vaudeville with his conversational monologues and comedic timing. He is often regarded as one of the first stand-up comedians, influencing future generations of performers. Fay also appeared in a handful of films during the silent and early sound eras, notably in stage-to-screen adaptations. His marriage to actress Barbara Stanwyck attracted public attention before ending in divorce. Though his later career declined, his legacy in live comedy style endures among comedians.

Walter Pidgeon began his career on the Canadian stage before moving to Hollywood in the 1920s. He signed a contract with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer and became one of the studio’s most reliable leading men. He received Academy Award nominations for his roles in Mrs. Miniver (1942) and Madama Curie (1943). Pidgeon was acclaimed for his portrayal of Professor Morbius in the sci-fi classic Forbidden Planet (1956). In addition to cinema, he had a successful career in radio and television during the 1950s. His gentlemanly screen presence and versatility made him a beloved figure in Hollywood’s Golden Age. Pidgeon continued acting into the 1960s and left a lasting legacy through his memorable performances.

Mary Astor was a versatile American actress born in 1906 who achieved success in silent films before transitioning to talkies. She won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in The Great Lie (1941). Astor is perhaps best remembered for her role as Brigid O’Shaughnessy in the film noir classic The Maltese Falcon (1941). Over a career spanning five decades, she appeared in over 100 films as well as radio and television dramas. Astor also wrote an autobiography detailing her Hollywood experiences and personal struggles. Her talent and resilience made her one of the most respected actresses of Hollywood’s Golden Age.

Emlyn Williams was a Welsh dramatist and actor born in 1905, celebrated for his compelling plays and stage performances. His debut play, Night Must Fall (1935), was a theatrical sensation and has been adapted into multiple films. Williams also wrote and starred in The Corn Is Green (1938), drawing on his own experiences growing up in Wales. In addition to his work as a playwright, he enjoyed a successful acting career on stage and screen, known for his intense character portrayals. Williams authored memoirs recounting his theatrical journeys and survived a near-fatal accident in 1937 that fueled his creative spirit. He continued to influence British theatre until his death in 1987.

Viviane Romance was a leading figure of French cinema in the 1930s and 1940s. Born in 1912, she gained fame for her femme fatale roles and dramatic intensity. Her breakthrough performance in the 1935 film "La Bandera" established her as a star. Romance later expanded her career into film production, showcasing her versatility. She worked with renowned directors and appeared in over 50 films. Off-screen, she was celebrated for her elegance and style. She passed away in 1991, leaving a lasting mark on European film history.

Hélène Baillargeon was a Canadian performer born in 1916 who made significant contributions to francophone music and theater. She began her career as a classically trained singer, captivating audiences with her rich mezzo-soprano voice on radio and concert stages. Later, Baillargeon transitioned to acting, appearing in stage productions, film, and television in both Canada and France. She was known for her versatility and warmth, bringing depth to each role. Throughout her life, she championed the preservation of French-Canadian culture through her art. Baillargeon's performances influenced a generation of artists in Quebec and beyond. She passed away in 1997, leaving a legacy of artistic excellence.

Don Adams was born in 1923 in New York City. After serving in the U.S. Navy, he broke into comedy and television in the 1950s. He starred as Maxwell Smart in Get Smart from 1965 to 1970, earning three Emmy Awards for his performance. Adams later lent his voice to the animated series Inspector Gadget, charming new audiences. His trademark witty one-liners and physical comedy made him a beloved figure in American entertainment. He continued to act and direct until his passing in 2005.

Pierre Falardeau was a Quebecois director, actor, and writer famous for his fervent support of Quebec sovereignty. His documentary 'Elvis Gratton: Le king des kings' and the drama 'Octobre' tackled social and political themes. Falardeau's work was marked by raw realism, provocative commentary, and a commitment to cultural identity. He also acted in several films and wrote scripts that explored Quebec's history and the separatist movement. His passionate filmmaking sparked debate and cemented his reputation as a critical voice in Canadian cinema.

Jan Tříska (1936–2017) was a celebrated Czech actor who performed on stage and screen for over five decades. He starred in films by director Miloš Forman and appeared in Hollywood movies like “The Karate Kid Part III.” Tříska’s dynamic stage presence earned him acclaim at Prague’s prestigious theater festivals. After emigrating to the United States, he continued to work in film, television, and theater. His final performance in the play “Richard III” was lauded as a testament to his enduring talent before his untimely death by drowning.

David McCallum was born in Glasgow, Scotland in 1933 and began his acting career on stage and in British television in the 1950s. He rose to international fame as the suave Soviet agent Illya Kuryakin on the 1960s spy series The Man from U.N.C.L.E., earning critical acclaim and a devoted fan following. After the series ended, he continued to work steadily in film and television, showcasing his versatility as a character actor. In 2003, he joined the cast of the crime drama NCIS as Dr. Donald Ducky Mallard, a medical examiner known for his encyclopedic knowledge and dry wit. McCallum remained a beloved fixture on NCIS for over a decade, winning praise for his warmth and gravitas. Across his career spanning more than six decades, he appeared in dozens of productions and remained active in the entertainment industry into his late 80s. He passed away in 2023 at the age of 90, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances and a lasting impact on television history.