October 10

Born in 1876 in Canada, Berton Churchill began his career on stage before moving to film. He appeared in over 100 films during the silent and early sound eras, often as authority figures. Churchill’s distinctive voice and presence made him a memorable screen character. He also performed in musical theater, showcasing his vocal talents. His work contributed to the development of American cinema’s character acting tradition.

Born Édith Giovanna Gassion in Paris in 1915, Piaf began her career singing on the streets to earn money. She rose to international fame in the late 1930s with hits such as "La Vie en rose" and "Non, je ne regrette rien." Piaf also appeared in several films, showcasing her talents as an actress. Her life was marked by personal tragedies, including the loss of loved ones and health struggles, which infused her songs with deep emotion. She toured extensively across Europe and North America, becoming a symbol of French chanson. Piaf died in 1963, but her legacy endures as one of France's greatest cultural icons.

Born in 1892 in New York City, Cantor began his career in vaudeville before rising to Broadway stardom. He starred in hit productions such as "Whoopee!" and appeared in several early sound films. Cantor's radio show in the 1930s made him a household name, and he was known for songs like "Makin' Whoopee." Beyond performing, he advocated for social causes and was one of the first entertainers to support unionization in the entertainment industry. His charismatic style influenced generations of comedians and performers. Cantor passed away in 1964, leaving behind a trailblazing career in American show business.

Born in 1939 in Doboj, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Silvana Armenulić became one of the most celebrated folk singers of Yugoslavia in the 1960s. Her emotive voice and stage presence won her widespread fame across the Balkans. She recorded dozens of hit songs blending traditional sevdalinka with contemporary pop elements. Silvana also appeared in several Yugoslav films, showcasing her dramatic talent. Her personal life was often in the public eye, and her tragic death in a car accident in 1976 shocked fans. She remains an iconic figure in ex-Yugoslav popular culture.

Born in 1930 in Sliema, Malta, Angelo Muscat moved to England as a young man to pursue acting. At just over three feet tall, he faced typecasting but embraced roles that showcased his presence and talent. Throughout the 1960s, he appeared in various British television shows, commercials, and stage productions. Audiences remembered his warm performances and professionalism. After retiring from acting, Muscat lived quietly in London until his death in 1977. He is remembered as a trailblazer for actors of short stature in the entertainment industry.

Born in 1902, Ralph Richardson rose to prominence on the English stage before transitioning to film. He earned acclaim for nuanced portrayals in Shakespearean productions and classic dramas such as The Heiress. Richardson's subtle expressiveness and commanding presence made him a favorite character actor. Over a career spanning more than fifty years, he influenced British theatre with his depth and skill. His legacy endures as one of the great acting talents of the 20th century.

Born in 1920 in Vladivostok, Yul Brynner began his acting career on European stages. He achieved international fame for his Tony- and Academy Award–winning portrayal of King Mongkut in The King and I. Brynner's distinctive shaved head and commanding presence became cultural trademarks. He went on to star in films such as The Magnificent Seven and Westworld, showcasing his range. His charismatic performances continue to influence actors around the world.

Orson Welles emerged as a prodigy in theatre and radio, famously directing and starring in the 1938 broadcast of The War of the Worlds. In 1941, he co-wrote, produced, and directed Citizen Kane, widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made. His innovative techniques in cinematography and storytelling have influenced countless filmmakers. Welles continued to work across film, theatre, and radio, often championing artistic freedom. His prolific career in acting, directing, producing, and writing left a profound legacy in multiple artistic fields.

Christopher Reeve rose to international fame with his portrayal of Superman in the 1978 blockbuster and its sequels. After a horseback riding accident in 1995 left him paralyzed, he became a vocal advocate for spinal cord injury research and founded the Christopher Reeve Foundation. He also produced documentaries and penned an autobiography detailing his struggle and hope. His activism significantly increased public awareness and funding for paralysis research. Reeve died of heart failure in 2004 at age 52, but his philanthropic legacy continues to inspire.

Born in Sydney in 1926, Dame Joan Sutherland gained international fame for her extraordinary vocal range and technique. Nicknamed "La Stupenda" by critics, she specialized in roles by Donizetti, Bellini, and Rossini. Her 1959 Covent Garden debut as Lucia di Lammermoor marked the start of a glittering 30-year career. Sutherland recorded extensively and won multiple Grammy Awards for her outstanding performances. She was appointed a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1979. Sutherland's legacy lives on through her recordings and her influence on generations of opera singers.

Born in Gary, Indiana in 1935, Alex Karras starred as a defensive tackle for the Detroit Lions, earning four Pro Bowl selections. He won NFL Rookie of the Year in 1958 and helped lead the Lions to two NFL championship games. After retiring from football, Karras pursued professional wrestling, becoming a popular figure in the ring. He transitioned to acting, with memorable roles including Mongo in Mel Brooks's film "Blazing Saddles". Karras also appeared in the TV series "Webster", showcasing his comedic talents. Known for his boisterous personality and wit, he authored several books and remained a beloved sports and entertainment icon until his passing in 2012.

Pavel Landovský was a prominent Czech actor, stage director, and playwright. He became a leading figure in Czech theater during the 1960s and 70s. Landovský wrote satirical plays that critiqued the political climate under communism. He starred in films by acclaimed directors such as Jiří Menzel, earning critical praise. Despite facing censorship and exile, he remained influential in Czech cultural life.