October 16

Eva Marie Veigel (1724-1822) was born in Vienna and gained fame for her graceful theatrical dances across Europe. She performed at the Burgtheater in Vienna before relocating to London, where her beauty and talent captured audiences. In 1749 she married David Garrick, the foremost English actor of his day, and retired from the stage. The couple enjoyed a lifelong partnership celebrated in artistic and social circles. Veigel was known for her elegance, conversational wit, and patronage of the arts. She lived to the remarkable age of 98, witnessing dramatic changes in theater and society.

Born in Union City, New Jersey, George O’Hara began his film career as an extra in D. W. Griffith productions. He rose to prominence in the 1920s with starring roles in Mack Sennett comedies, showcasing his comedic timing and expressive performances. As the film industry transitioned to sound, O’Hara adapted by writing screenplays and taking character roles in early talkies. He wrote and acted in various low-budget films throughout the 1930s and 1940s. O’Hara’s career spanned the silent and sound eras, making him a versatile figure in Hollywood’s evolution. He passed away in 1966, remembered by cinephiles for his contributions to early American cinema.

Born Leo Gratten Carroll in Weedon Bec, England, he began his acting career on the London stage before moving to Hollywood in the late 1930s. Carroll became a favorite of Alfred Hitchcock, appearing in films such as Spellbound (1945), Strangers on a Train (1951), and North by Northwest (1959). In the 1960s, he found television success playing the astute secret agent Alexander Waverly in The Man from U.N.C.L.E. His calm demeanor and authoritative presence made him a beloved character actor across stage, film, and TV. Carroll’s career spanned over five decades, showcasing his versatility and professionalism. He passed away in 1972, leaving behind a legacy of iconic performances.

Born in Brooklyn in 1913, Dan Dailey began his career on Broadway before transitioning to Hollywood musicals. He starred opposite Judy Garland in 'Meet Me in St. Louis' and won acclaim for his dynamic dance routines. Dailey’s work spanned film, television, and theater, showcasing his talents as an actor, singer, dancer, and director. He received Tony Award nominations for his performances in Broadway productions. Known for his charismatic presence and athletic style, Dailey captivated audiences across mediums. His dedication to performance artistry left a lasting impact on American entertainment before his death in 1978.

Born in 1912 in Jókai, then part of Austria-Hungary, Cornel Wilde emigrated to the United States as a child. He gained critical acclaim in the 1940s with an Academy Award nomination for A Song to Remember. Wilde starred in films such as Captain from Castile and The Naked Prey, which he also produced and directed. Known for his athletic screen presence and versatility, he brought intensity to swashbuckling and dramatic roles alike. His career spanned over five decades in both film and television, leaving a lasting mark as a distinguished leading man and filmmaker.

Born in 1898 in Newark, New Jersey, Shirley Booth began her career on Broadway, winning two Tony Awards. She achieved film stardom with her Oscar-winning role in Come Back, Little Sheba (1952). Booth seamlessly transitioned to television as the endearing housekeeper Hazel in the sitcom Hazel (1961–1966), earning multiple Emmy Awards. Known for her warmth, nuanced performances, and comedic timing, she enjoyed a versatile career across stage, screen, and radio. Her enduring legacy reflects a remarkable talent that resonated with audiences for generations.

Born in 1938 in Chicago, Jason Bernard built a reputation as a versatile character actor in both stage and screen productions. He appeared in films such as Robocop and guest-starred on popular television shows including Hill Street Blues and L.A. Law. Bernard's commanding presence and wide-ranging performances saw him portray everything from law-enforcement figures to authority roles. He also co-starred in the action series Street Justice. His sudden passing from a heart attack while filming in 1996 cut short a flourishing career.

Born in 1918 in Los Angeles, Audra Lindley began her acting career in radio and on stage before transitioning to film and television. She appeared in films such as Flicka and Murder at the World Series before landing the role of Helen Roper on Three's Company (1977–1984), earning an Emmy nomination. Lindley's portrayal of the wisecracking, endearing landlady endeared her to audiences, and she reprised the role in the spin-off series The Ropers. Across a five-decade career, she showcased her comedic talent and versatility.

Born in 1921, Jean Shepherd gained fame with his late-night radio show that blended humor and autobiographical tales. He was also a talented screenwriter, co-writing the film adaptation of his own stories "A Christmas Story". Shepherd's witty, irreverent style influenced generations of broadcasters and comedians. Beyond radio and film, he wrote essays and books celebrated for their nostalgic and comedic insights. He remained active on air until his death in 1999, leaving a lasting legacy in American pop culture.

Born in 1923, Rick Jason began his acting career with small film roles in the late 1940s. He achieved fame in the 1960s as Lieutenant Gil Hanley on the hit TV series "Combat!", portraying the emotional toll of World War II. Jason also appeared in various films and television movies throughout his career, demonstrating versatility and depth. His performance on "Combat!" earned critical acclaim and a loyal fan following that lasted decades. He continued acting until the mid-1990s and passed away in 2000, remembered for his authentic and moving portrayals.

Born in Glasgow in 1921, Deborah Kerr began acting on stage before transitioning to film in the 1940s. She earned six Academy Award nominations for her nuanced performances. Her portrayal of Anna Leonowens in The King and I remains iconic and won her a Golden Globe. She also starred in From Here to Eternity, earning critical acclaim for her performance. Kerr was known for her poise, grace, and versatility across drama and musicals. She received an Honorary Academy Award in 1994 for lifetime achievement. She continued working on stage and television throughout her career. Kerr passed away in 2007 at the age of 86.

Barbara Billingsley was born in 1915 and began her entertainment career in vaudeville and radio before moving to film and television. She achieved lasting fame portraying June Cleaver on the sitcom Leave It to Beaver from 1957 to 1963, epitomizing the idealized 1950s American mother. Her performance became an enduring pop culture icon and earned her widespread recognition. Billingsley later appeared in films such as Airplane! in 1980, where she humorously parodied her perfect persona. She continued acting into her 90s, making guest appearances on television and in voice roles. In 1985, she received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for her television work. Billingsley passed away in 2010, leaving a legacy of warmth and professionalism that continues to charm audiences.