September 29

William McGonagall (1825–1902) was a Scottish weaver-turned-poet and occasional actor. Despite his earnest efforts, his verses were criticized for awkward meter and forced rhymes. He gained fame for reciting poetry about local events, such as the Tay Bridge Disaster. McGonagall toured Britain, performing his work to enthusiastic crowds and bewildered critics. His unique style has made him a cult figure in literary history, celebrated for unintentional humor. Today, his legacy endures in anthologies and performances highlighting poetic misadventures.

Edward Everett Horton (1886–1970) was an American actor celebrated for his impeccable comic timing and distinctive voice. Born in Brooklyn, he began his career in musical theater before transitioning to silent films and then talkies. Horton appeared in classic Hollywood productions such as Top Hat, The Philadelphia Story, and Arsenic and Old Lace. Beyond film, he was a regular on radio programs and lent his voice to animated cartoons. Renowned for portraying anxious, well-mannered gentlemen, his performances brought warmth and wit to supporting roles. Horton's career spanned over six decades, leaving an enduring mark on American entertainment.

Georges Ulmer was born in 1919 in Copenhagen and later became a prominent figure in French popular music. He gained fame with his 1954 hit Pigalle, which captured the spirit of Paris nightlife. Ulmer recorded numerous songs blending chanson and jazz influences, showcasing his lyrical melodies. He also appeared in films and theater productions, demonstrating his versatility as a performer. Ulmer's charismatic stage presence and songwriting talent earned him acclaim across Europe. His work influenced later generations of chanson artists. He passed away in 1989.

Born in 1907 in New York City, Gordon Douglas began his career as an actor and stuntman in silent films. He transitioned to directing in the 1930s, eventually helming over a hundred feature films across genres including comedy, drama, and Westerns. He worked with stars such as Elvis Presley, Abbott and Costello, and Doris Day, delivering box-office hits like “Jailhouse Rock” and “The Mating Game”. Douglas’s efficient style and reliability made him a favorite of Hollywood studios. In later years, he directed television episodes, further showcasing his versatility. His spirited storytelling and adaptability left a lasting mark on American cinema.

Born in 1927 in Kitchener, Ontario, Lois Maxwell won a Golden Globe for her early performances before landing the iconic role of Miss Moneypenny in Dr. No (1962). She went on to appear in 14 James Bond films opposite Sean Connery and Roger Moore, becoming one of the franchise’s most beloved figures. Maxwell also enjoyed a diverse career in theater, radio, and television, showcasing her versatility beyond the spy genre. In later years, she authored an autobiography reflecting on her experiences in Hollywood. Her warm presence and memorable performance ensured her place in cinematic history.

Born Bernard Schwartz in New York City in 1925, Tony Curtis overcame early hardship to become one of Hollywood’s most bankable stars. He delivered memorable performances in films such as Houdini (1953), Sweet Smell of Success (1957), and the Oscar-winning comedy Some Like It Hot (1959). Nominated for an Academy Award for The Defiant Ones (1958), Curtis demonstrated range across drama, comedy, and action genres. Beyond acting, he explored painting and writing, publishing his autobiography in 1995. His enduring screen presence and versatility made him a beloved figure for generations of moviegoers before his death in 2010.

Greg Giraldo, born in 1965 in New York City, initially pursued a career in law before turning to stand-up comedy. He earned acclaim for his intelligent humor and cutting observations on politics and culture. Giraldo became known for his appearances on Comedy Central roasts, showcasing his fearless comedic style. He also wrote for television and recorded several comedy albums. Despite personal struggles with addiction, Giraldo’s candid wit and quick mind left an indelible mark on the comedy world before his untimely death in 2010.

Tom Alter was a versatile Indian actor and stage performer celebrated for his command of Shakespearean roles and fluent Hindi delivery. Born in Bombay in 1950 to American parents, he trained at the Film and Television Institute of India and debuted in Hindi cinema in the 1970s. Over a career spanning five decades, he appeared in over 300 films, television series and theater productions. He narrated documentaries, hosted cultural programs, and authored a memoir recounting his journey across Indian arts. Honored with the Padma Shri in 2008, he was admired for bridging Western and Indian performance arts. His warm presence and deep voice made him a beloved figure in India's entertainment scene.

Helen Reddy was an Australian-American singer, actress and activist whose anthem I Am Woman became a rallying cry for the women's movement. Born in Melbourne in 1941, she moved to the United States in the late 1960s and signed with Capitol Records. She scored multiple Billboard hits in the 1970s, including three number-one singles and a Grammy Award. As an actress, she appeared in films such as Pete's Dragon and on various television specials. A passionate advocate for women's rights, she co-founded the Women's Advisory Council and performed at feminist events. Her enduring legacy lies in her empowering music and her role in shaping cultural attitudes toward gender equality.