October 02

Born in 1904, Hartman began his career in vaudeville, performing alongside his wife Grace Barrett as a popular dancing duo. The pair starred in Broadway productions like The Ziegfeld Follies and Hellzapoppin, showcasing their comedic timing and dance skills. Hartman transitioned to film and television, appearing in series such as I Love Lucy and earning Emmy nominations. His energetic performances and charm made him a favorite in American entertainment for decades. He continued acting in musicals and TV into the 1970s, demonstrating remarkable versatility. Hartman's contributions to stagecraft influenced dance choreography and comedic performance styles. He died in 1973, remembered for his dynamic presence on stage and screen.

Born in Siberia in 1929, Shukshin's humble upbringing influenced his storytelling and film themes. He began acting in the late 1950s, gaining fame for authentic performances in Soviet cinema. Shukshin wrote and directed films like There Is Such a Lad, capturing the spirit of rural Russian communities. His literary works include short stories exploring human nature and village life. Shukshin's films were praised for blending humor, pathos, and social commentary. He became a prominent figure in the Village Prose movement of the 1960s. Shukshin's sudden death in 1974 at age 44 shocked the Soviet cultural world.

Born in Trinidad in 1920, Scott displayed prodigious musical talent and debuted at Carnegie Hall as a teenager. She moved to the U.S. in the 1930s and became one of the first Black women to host a national TV show, The Hazel Scott Show. Scott starred in films like Broadway Rhythm and I Dood It, showcasing her piano virtuosity and stage presence. A vocal activist, she challenged racial discrimination in Hollywood and testified before the House Un-American Activities Committee in 1950. Scott's musical style blended jazz, classical, and popular music, earning her critical acclaim. She broke barriers for minority performers and inspired future generations of artists. Scott died in 1981, remembered as a trailblazing artist and advocate for social justice.

Born Roy Harold Scherer Jr. in 1925, Hudson adopted his stage name in the early 1950s. He rose to fame starring opposite Doris Day in films like Pillow Talk and Lover Come Back. Hudson became one of Hollywood's top box-office stars of the 1950s and 1960s, admired for his charm and on-screen presence. He earned Golden Globe Awards for his performances and later found success in television with the series McMillan & Wife. In 1985, Hudson's death from an AIDS-related illness brought significant attention to the epidemic. His passing marked a turning point in public awareness of HIV/AIDS and the stigma surrounding the disease. Hudson's legacy endures through his films and his impact on Hollywood and HIV/AIDS activism.

Madeleine Carroll (1906-1987) was an English film actress celebrated for her poise and versatility. She became one of the world's highest-paid actresses in the 1930s following roles opposite Leslie Howard. Carroll achieved international fame starring in Alfred Hitchcock's The 39 Steps (1935), showcasing her transition to Hollywood. In 1938, she co-starred with Ronald Colman in The Prisoner of Zenda, further cementing her screen presence. Beyond acting, she served as a special assistant for the British Ministry of Information during World War II. Carroll's career spanned stage, screen, and radio before she retired in the 1950s.

Gene Autry (1907-1998) was an iconic American performer who became famous as the 'Singing Cowboy' in radio, film, and television. He starred in over 90 films and recorded numerous hit songs like 'Back in the Saddle Again.' Autry broke new ground by owning his own radio station, a television network franchise, and the Major League Baseball team California Angels. His wholesome image and cowboy persona helped popularize country and western music nationwide. He received multiple honors, including induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Autry's enduring legacy spans entertainment, sports, and philanthropy.

Born Julius Russell in 1918, Nipsey Russell began his career performing in nightclubs and on the vaudeville circuit. He earned the nickname "poet laureate of television" for reciting witty and spontaneous verse on shows like Hollywood Squares. Russell appeared regularly on The Dean Martin Show and guest-starred in numerous television series and films. His charming delivery and quick wit made him a beloved figure in American entertainment from the 1960s through the 1990s. Russell also appeared as a game show panelist and released comedy albums showcasing his poetic talents. Beyond his performances, he was an active voice in civil rights and community events. He passed away on October 2, 2005.

George Grizzard was born in 1928 in New York City and became a prominent figure in American theater. He won a Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Play for his role in "Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?" and received multiple Drama Desk nominations. Grizzard also earned an Emmy Award for his performance in the television film "The Oldest Living Graduate." His film credits include roles in "All the President's Men," "Beaches," and "Glengarry Glen Ross." A versatile performer, he appeared regularly on Broadway, Off-Broadway, and in regional theaters. Grizzard's nuanced portrayals and stage presence earned him critical acclaim over a career spanning five decades. He passed away on October 2, 2007.

Sacheen Littlefeather, born Marie Louise Cruz, was an American actress, model, and activist for Native American rights. In 1973, she surprised the world when she took the stage at the Academy Awards to decline Marlon Brando's Best Actor award for the film The Godfather, protesting Hollywood's treatment of Native Americans. Her courageous action brought national attention to Indigenous issues and sparked both support and controversy. Littlefeather continued her advocacy by working with various organizations to improve healthcare, education, and representation for Native American communities. She appeared in films and television, using her platform to amplify marginalized voices. Littlefeather passed away in 2022, remembered as a trailblazer who challenged injustice on a global stage.