September 30

Lil Dagover was born Maria Antonia Siegelinde Martha Madita in 1887 in Java, Dutch East Indies. She moved to Germany as a child and began her acting career on stage before transitioning to film. Dagover gained international fame for her haunting performance as Jane in Robert Wiene's 'The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari' (1920). She appeared in over 80 films, showcasing versatility in dramas, romances, and historical epics throughout the Weimar and Nazi eras. Dagover continued acting into the 1950s and 1960s, maintaining a presence in German cinema and television. She was admired for her expressive eyes and refined stage presence, influencing generations of filmmakers. Dagover passed away in 1980, leaving a legacy as a pioneer of German film.

Lewis Milestone was born in 1895 in Kishinev, Bessarabia (now Moldova) and emigrated to the United States as a child. He began his Hollywood career in the silent era and directed his first major film in 1929. Milestone earned critical acclaim and won the Academy Award for Best Director in 1930 for 'All Quiet on the Western Front'. He later won a second Oscar for directing 'Two Arabian Knights' and delivered memorable works such as 'The Front Page' and 'Les Misérables'. Known for his technical innovation and storytelling, Milestone influenced the development of cinematic language. Over a career spanning five decades, he navigated changing studio systems and genres. Milestone died in 1980 in Santa Monica, California, leaving behind an enduring film legacy.

Renée Adorée, born in France in 1898, became one of Hollywood's most beloved silent film actresses. She moved to the United States as a teenager and quickly gained fame for her performances in romantic dramas. Her breakthrough role came in King Vidor's 'The Big Parade' (1925), where she played a French farm girl opposite John Gilbert. Adorée appeared in over 60 films before her untimely death in 1933 from tuberculosis. She was celebrated for her expressive acting style and ability to convey deep emotion without dialogue. Despite a career cut short, her work remains a highlight of silent cinema history.

Mireille Hartuch, known simply as 'Mireille', was born in Paris in 1906 and became a beloved figure in French entertainment. She wrote and performed hits like 'Mon homme' and starred in films and revues throughout the 1930s and 1940s. After World War II, she founded the songwriters' school École d'Arts Chansonniers to teach new generations of artists. Mireille's warmth and musical talent earned her a lasting legacy in French chanson. She also appeared on radio and television, bringing her music to wider audiences. Mireille continued to perform and teach until her death in 1996, leaving an indelible mark on French song and film.

Yuri Petrovich Lyubimov (1917–2014) was a Soviet and Russian theatre director and actor celebrated for founding the Taganka Theatre in Moscow in 1964. His avant-garde productions, blending political commentary with innovative staging, challenged Soviet cultural norms. Lyubimov directed landmark plays such as Bertolt Brecht's The Good Person of Szechwan and Shakespeare's Hamlet, earning international acclaim. Despite clashes with authorities leading to his temporary exile in 1984, he returned in the late 1980s, revitalizing Russian theatre. Over his seven-decade career, he influenced generations of actors and directors, leaving a lasting legacy in global theatre.

Buddy Rich (1917–1987) was an American jazz drummer and bandleader widely regarded as one of the greatest drummers of all time. Starting as a child vaudeville performer, he gained fame leading big bands and recording acclaimed albums like Big Swing Face and Swingin' New Big Band. Known for his blistering speed, intricate solos, and fiery personality, Rich influenced generations of percussionists. He also appeared in films and television, showcasing his larger-than-life persona. Even after decades on the stage, he maintained a rigorous touring schedule until his death, cementing his status as a jazz legend.

Patricia Neway was born in New York City in 1919 and gained acclaim for her rich soprano voice and charismatic stage presence. She studied at the Juilliard School and made her professional debut with the New York City Opera in the 1940s. Neway created the title role in the world premiere of Menotti's 'The Consul' and became known for her powerful dramatic interpretations. In addition to opera, she appeared on Broadway in musicals and radio broadcasts, showcasing her adaptability across genres. She balanced her performing career with teaching, mentoring aspiring singers at various institutions. Neway's contributions to mid-20th-century American opera and theater earned her enduring respect, and she continued to inspire audiences until her passing in 2012.

Deborah Kerr was born in Helensburgh, Scotland in 1921 and became one of Hollywood's most beloved leading ladies. She earned six Academy Award nominations for her roles in films such as 'From Here to Eternity' and 'The King and I'. Kerr captivated audiences with her grace, emotional depth, and versatility, seamlessly transitioning between drama, romance, and musicals. Her performance in 'The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp' earned international acclaim and established her as a major star. Beyond the screen, she was known for her philanthropic work and private nature. Kerr's legacy endures through her iconic performances that continue to influence actors and filmmakers.

Lamont Johnson was born in 1922 in Stockton, California, and began his career as an actor on the stage before moving into film and television. He made his directorial debut in the 1960s and became celebrated for his sensitive storytelling and character-driven narratives. Johnson directed acclaimed television films such as 'That Certain Summer', which was notable for its early sympathetic portrayal of a gay couple. He also helmed feature films including 'The Last American Hero' and 'Lipstick'. Throughout his career, he earned multiple Emmy nominations and won a Peabody Award for his work in television. Johnson's contributions helped expand the artistic reach of television drama until his death in 2010.

Born Angeline Brown in Kulm, North Dakota, Dickinson began her career as a model before entering Hollywood. She gained stardom opposite John Wayne in 'Rio Bravo' (1959) and received critical acclaim. In the 1970s, she starred in the groundbreaking series 'Police Woman,' earning an Emmy nomination. Her film credits include 'Ocean's Eleven,' 'Dressed to Kill,' and 'Point Blank.' Known for her charisma and versatility, she broke barriers for women in action genres. Dickinson was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for her enduring impact.

Born in 1934 in Darjeeling, India, Kashfi took the stage name Anna Kashfi and moved to Hollywood. She made her screen debut in 1956 alongside Spencer Tracy and Robert Wagner in 'The Mountain.' Kashfi also appeared in the film 'Night of the Quarter Moon' and several television series. Her personal life drew attention when she married and later divorced actor Marlon Brando. After retiring from acting, she wrote an autobiography detailing her turbulent experiences in Hollywood. Kashfi passed away in 2015, remembered for her striking looks and early film performances.