October 07

Born Alfredo Arnold Cocozza in 1921 in Philadelphia, Lanza displayed musical talent from a young age. He won a singing contest in 1944, earning a contract with the Metropolitan Opera that he could not fulfill due to health issues. Transitioning to film, he debuted in "That Midnight Kiss" (1949) and gained fame in "The Great Caruso" (1951). His recordings sold millions worldwide, making opera accessible to a mass audience. Despite personal struggles with health and studio conflicts, his charisma and vocal prowess left a lasting impact. Lanza died in 1959, but his legacy endures through recordings and inspired performers.

Born in South Africa in 1910, Cyril Cusack moved to Ireland and became one of the country's most esteemed actors. Over a career spanning seven decades, he appeared in countless theater productions, films, and television series, earning critical acclaim for his depth and charisma. Cusack was a founding member of several Irish theater companies and received multiple awards for his work. He also mentored younger actors, contributing to the growth of Irish drama. His legacy extends through his large acting family, including his daughter Sinead Cusack. Cusack passed away in 1993, leaving an indelible mark on the performing arts.

Charles Rocket was an American actor and comedian born in 1949. He gained widespread recognition during the 1980–81 season of Saturday Night Live, where his sharp humor and quirky characters stood out. After SNL, Rocket appeared in films such as 'Heaven's Gate' and had guest roles on popular television series including 'Home Improvement' and 'Sabrina the Teenage Witch'. He later moved to Alaska, where he owned a local television station and continued his creative pursuits. Rocket's blend of comedic talent and dramatic ability endeared him to audiences until his tragic death in 2005.

Terry Burnham began her acting career at a young age, gaining recognition for her work on television series such as The Twilight Zone and My Three Sons. She transitioned to adult roles in the 1960s, appearing in both television and stage productions. Burnham’s performances were noted for their emotional depth, earning her acclaim among audiences. After a diverse career spanning multiple genres, she passed away in 2013, leaving behind a legacy of memorable screen moments.

Patrice Chéreau was a visionary French artist born in 1944, celebrated for his groundbreaking stage productions and innovative filmmaking. He rose to international fame with his opera direction at Bayreuth and his film The Queen Margot, which won the Jury Prize at Cannes. Chéreau’s work was characterized by its emotional intensity and modern interpretations of classic texts. In addition to directing, he acted in several films and wrote screenplays, earning numerous awards throughout his career. His influence reshaped contemporary theatre and cinema before his death in 2013.

Iva Withers, born in 1917, was a celebrated actress and singer who graced the stages of Broadway's golden era. She worked as a standby for stars like Mary Martin in South Pacific and The Sound of Music, later taking over leading roles with grace and poise. Withers also appeared in television and nightclub performances, showcasing her vocal talent and stage presence. Her dedication to the performing arts earned her admiration from colleagues and audiences alike. She passed away in 2014, remembered as a consummate professional and a beloved figure in musical theatre.

Ross Higgins was a pioneering figure in Australian radio and television comedy. He began his career in radio in the 1950s before transitioning to television. Higgins gained fame for his character Ted Bullpitt, the chauvinistic patriarch in Kingswood Country. He also voiced memorable characters in animated series and advertisements. His career spanned over six decades, making him one of Australia's most beloved entertainers.

Arun Bali had a prolific career spanning over five decades in Indian entertainment. He gained recognition for his roles in popular television series such as 'Chandrakanta' and 'Ye Jo Hai Zindagi'. In films, he appeared in works by acclaimed directors like Yash Chopra and Prakash Jha. Bali was praised for his ability to portray both comedic and dramatic characters with depth. He remained active in the industry until his passing in 2022.