September 27

Clara Bow (1905–1965) was a prolific American film actress who became a cultural icon of the Roaring Twenties. She earned the nickname 'the It Girl' after starring in the 1927 film 'It', defining the modern, liberated flapper image. Bow appeared in over 50 silent and early sound films, captivating audiences with her vivacious screen presence. Her rise from poverty to Hollywood stardom inspired countless fans and established her as one of the era's biggest box-office draws. Despite a brief career, Bow's influence on popular culture endures as a symbol of youthful exuberance and independence.

Gracie Fields was born in 1898 in Rochdale and rose to fame as a performer in music halls before transitioning to film. She starred in early British talkies such as "Sally in Our Alley" and became one of the highest-paid entertainers of the 1930s. Her warm singing voice and down-to-earth persona resonated with audiences during a time of economic hardship. Fields dedicated much of her career to entertaining troops during World War II and was appointed a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire for her services to entertainment. Beyond her artistic achievements, she was admired for her charitable work and resilience. She died in 1979.

Robert Montgomery was born in 1904 in Fishkill Landing, New York, and began his acting career on Broadway in the 1920s. He transitioned to Hollywood and starred in films such as "Night Must Fall", "Here Comes Mr. Jordan", and "The Hoodlum Saint". Montgomery also directed and produced movies and received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. In the 1950s, he hosted the television anthology series "Robert Montgomery Presents", earning acclaim as a pioneer of early TV drama. He served during World War II as a lieutenant commander in the U.S. Navy. His multifaceted contributions to stage, screen, and television left a lasting impact on American entertainment. He died in 1981.

Chronis Exarhakos was born in 1932 and became a beloved figure in Greek cinema and theater. He started his career on the stage before moving into film in the 1960s. Exarhakos was renowned for his comedic timing and expressive performances in popular films of the era. He also appeared on television, endearing himself to audiences across Greece. His versatility as an actor made him a staple of Greek entertainment. He died in 1984, leaving behind a legacy of memorable roles.

Lloyd Nolan was born in 1902 in San Francisco and pursued acting from a young age, debuting on Broadway in the 1920s. He became known for his roles in film noir classics such as "The Glass Key" and "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn". In the 1940s, he portrayed detective Michael Shayne in a series of popular films. Nolan later transitioned to television, appearing in series like "Perry Mason" and "Death Valley Days". Renowned for his commanding presence and versatility, he earned Emmy nominations for his TV work. He passed away in 1985 after a career spanning over five decades.

Donald O'Connor was born in Chicago in 1925 into a family of vaudeville performers and made his film debut as a child. He rose to stardom at MGM Studios, where his athletic dance style and comic timing dazzled audiences in films like 'Singin' in the Rain.' His 'Make ’Em Laugh' routine remains one of the most celebrated sequences in movie history. O'Connor also starred on Broadway and hosted his own television variety program, earning an Emmy Award for his work. In later years, he taught dance workshops and appeared in character roles, influencing generations of entertainers. He died in 2003, leaving a legacy of joyful and inventive performance.

Born in São Carlos, Brazil in 1929, Ronald Golias began his career as a radio comedian before becoming a television star in the 1950s. He created iconic characters like 'Bronco' that became staples of Brazilian variety shows. Golias headlined his own sitcoms and appeared in numerous films, showcasing his sharp wit and physical comedy. His work shaped the landscape of Brazilian television humor and inspired future generations of comedians. Beyond performance, he wrote sketches and collaborated closely with other entertainment legends of his era. Golias passed away in 2005, leaving an enduring imprint on Brazil’s cultural scene.

Born in Prague in 1917, Herbert Lom began his acting career in Czechoslovakia before emigrating to Britain during World War II. Over a career spanning more than sixty years, he appeared in over one hundred films and television productions. He gained international recognition for his portrayal of the conniving Professor Marcus in The Ladykillers (1955). Lom is perhaps best remembered for his comedic role as Chief Inspector Charles Dreyfus in The Pink Panther series alongside Peter Sellers. Beyond comedy, he showcased his dramatic range in films like The Dead Zone and Cleopatra. He continued acting in film and theater into his eighties, earning critical acclaim and several award nominations. He passed away in London in 2012, leaving a legacy as one of Britain's most respected character actors.

Born in Tunis in 1939, Abdelmajid Lakhal began acting on stage in the 1960s and quickly gained acclaim. He established and led multiple theater companies, introducing innovative productions across Tunisia and beyond. As a film and television actor, he appeared in works that showcased Arab cultural themes and social issues. Lakhal directed notable plays that blended classical and modern styles, influencing a generation of Maghreb artists. He also served as a mentor and teacher, nurturing emerging talent in the performing arts. His career spanned over five decades, during which he received national awards for his artistic contributions. He passed away in 2014, leaving a lasting legacy in Tunisian cultural history.

Sir Michael Gambon was born in 1940 in Dublin, Ireland, and raised in London. He began his acting career in theatre, joining the Royal National Theatre in the late 1960s. Gambon won multiple Olivier Awards for his work in plays by Shaw and Pinter. He gained worldwide fame portraying Professor Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter film series. His film and television roles spanned drama, comedy, and thrillers, earning two Olivier Awards and multiple BAFTAs. Knighted in 1998, he remained a towering presence in the performing arts until his death.

Dame Maggie Smith was born in 1934 in Ilford, Essex, England. She made her stage debut in the 1950s and quickly established herself as a dramatic talent. Smith won Academy Awards for her performances in 'The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie' and 'California Suite'. Her role as Professor Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter films brought her widespread recognition among new audiences. She has also received multiple Tony, Emmy, and Olivier Awards for her work across mediums. With a career spanning over six decades, she is celebrated as one of Britain's greatest living actresses.