October 18

Uhwudong (c.1440–1480) was one of the most famous female performers of the Joseon court. Born into an aristocratic family, she broke social norms through her mastery of dance and poetry. Her exquisite performances earned her acclaim among both nobility and commoners. She composed elegant poems that showcased her wit, emotional depth, and literary skill. Uhwudong's life was marked by scandal and exile, reflecting the tensions of her time. Despite adversity, her artistic legacy endured in Korean folklore and literary tradition. She died in 1480, leaving a lasting legend as a creative and independent spirit.

Born in Tokyo in 1892, Tsuru Aoki moved to the United States as a child and began her acting career on stage. She transitioned to silent films in the 1910s, starring in productions like 'The Wrath of the Gods' and 'The Dragon Painter'. Aoki was one of the first Japanese actresses to gain leading roles in Hollywood and helped open doors for future Asian performers. She married actor Sessue Hayakawa and often co-starred with him, creating one of early cinema's most celebrated screen couples. Aoki retired from acting in the late 1920s and died in 1961, leaving a legacy of cultural breakthrough in American film.

Born in Belgrade in 1894, Iván Petrovich served in the Austro-Hungarian Army during World War I before embarking on an acting career. He gained fame in the 1920s and 1930s in Germany and Austria, appearing in silent films and early sound musicals. Petrovich's rich baritone voice made him a sought-after leading man in operetta films and theatrical productions. He worked with major directors and maintained a cross-cultural appeal across the European film industry. After World War II, he continued acting in character roles until his death in 1962.

Born in 1874 in Ireland, Henry Travers began his acting career on the British stage before moving to Hollywood. He appeared in over a hundred films, often portraying amiable or wise supporting characters. Travers's most iconic role was Clarence Odbody in Frank Capra's 'It's a Wonderful Life' (1946), which remains a holiday classic. Known for his gentle demeanor and warm presence, he became a beloved figure in American cinema. Travers retired from acting in the early 1950s and passed away in 1965.

Al Lettieri began his acting career on Broadway before transitioning to film and television in the 1960s. He earned acclaim for his intense and nuanced performance as the mobster Virgil Sollozzo in The Godfather. Lettieri also appeared in films such as The Getaway and Go Tell the Spartans, often cast as formidable antagonists. His commanding screen presence and authentic portrayals set a new standard for cinematic villains. Despite his untimely death at age 47, Lettieri's work continues to be celebrated by film enthusiasts.

Graham Haberfield trained in regional theatre and earned roles in a variety of British stage productions. He appeared on television in popular series of the 1960s and 1970s, showcasing his versatility as a character actor. Haberfield was praised for his nuanced performances and dedication to his craft. His rising career came to an abrupt end when he died unexpectedly during a location shoot. Colleagues remember him for his professionalism, warmth, and the promise he showed as an actor.

Born in 1892, Dwain Esper was a maverick of independent film who specialized in sensational, low-budget productions. He gained notoriety with films such as Maniac and Reefer Madness, which became cult classics for their lurid content. Esper's marketing strategies, featuring provocative titles and graphic posters, set new standards for exploitation film promotion. Despite criticism for production quality, his works attracted dedicated followings and influenced future underground filmmakers. Over a career spanning decades, he championed a do-it-yourself approach that prefigured modern independent cinema. Esper died in 1982, leaving behind a legacy as an innovator of grindhouse filmmaking.

Born in 1940, Adriaan Ditvoorst emerged as a distinctive voice in Dutch art-house film during the 1960s and 1970s. His works blended poetic imagery, mythological themes, and psychological depth in unconventional narratives. Ditvoorst wrote and directed films that challenged mainstream cinematic forms and explored existential questions. Though his output was relatively small, it earned critical acclaim at European film festivals. His stylistic innovations have influenced subsequent generations of independent filmmakers. Ditvoorst died in 1987, and his films have since been rediscovered for their bold creativity.

Julie London was born in 1926 and rose to fame in the early 1950s with her intimate, smoky singing style. Her signature song 'Cry Me a River' became a jazz standard and defined her cool, understated approach. London transitioned into acting, appearing in film noir and starring on television in the hit series 'Emergency!'. Over her career, she released more than thirty albums and collaborated with leading jazz musicians. Her elegant persona and vocal delivery influenced countless singers in jazz and pop genres. She retired in the late 1970s and died in 2000, leaving a lasting impact on American music and entertainment.

Born in 1925, Gwen Verdon became one of Broadway’s most acclaimed performers, winning four Tony Awards for roles in musicals such as 'Can-Can' and 'Damn Yankees'. Trained in dance from a young age, she developed a partnership with choreographer Bob Fosse, originating roles that showcased her dynamic technique and charisma. Verdon’s performances set new standards for musical theatre, blending athleticism and character depth. Beyond Broadway, she appeared in film and television, and later taught dance at the University of Michigan. Her influence shaped generations of performers and choreographers. She died in 2000, remembered as a transformative figure in American musical theatre.

Anna Russell was an English-Canadian singer and comedic actress celebrated for her witty parodies of opera. Born in London in 1911, she moved to Canada as a child and studied at the Royal College of Music. Her one-woman shows, in which she humorously critiqued classical music, earned her international fame. She recorded best-selling albums and appeared on radio and television programs. Russell continued performing into her nineties, charming audiences with her sharp intellect and humor. She died on October 18, 2006.

Born in 1952 in Utrecht, Sylvia Kristel began her career as a model before transitioning to film. She achieved international fame with her starring role in the 1974 erotic drama "Emmanuelle," a global box office sensation. Kristel appeared in over 50 films across Europe, showcasing her versatility in drama and thriller genres. She also authored autobiographical books that offered candid insights into her personal struggles and career. Despite facing challenges with addiction and health, Kristel remained a celebrated cultural icon. Her work continues to influence cinema and discussions around sexuality on screen. She died of esophageal cancer in 2012, leaving a lasting legacy in film history.