October 27

Harry Saltzman was a Canadian-French film producer instrumental in the creation of the James Bond franchise. Born in Ontario in 1915, he began as a theatre producer before moving into cinema. In 1960, he co-founded Eon Productions and produced Dr. No, launching the 007 phenomenon. Saltzman's vision and business acumen shaped the iconic style and appeal of early Bond films. He produced a range of movies, from spy thrillers to comedies, influencing British cinema of the 1960s. Saltzman remained active in the film industry until his death in 1994.

Born in Carlisle, England, Monica Sims began her career as a radio host and producer for BBC Home Service programs. She broke new ground as the first female Controller of BBC Radio 4 in 1983, overseeing landmark series such as Book at Bedtime and Women's Hour. Sims championed innovative programming for audiences of all ages and expanded the network's cultural reach. Earlier, she produced the popular women's magazine show Woman's Hour, helping to shape public discourse on social issues. After retiring, she remained an active advocate for broadcasting quality and diversity. Her influential leadership left a lasting legacy on British radio.

Born on October 27, 1940, John Gotti rose through the ranks of the Gambino crime family to become its powerful boss in the mid-1980s. Known for his charisma and flamboyant style, he maintained his freedom for years despite numerous charges, leading to his moniker “Teflon Don.” Gotti’s reign was marked by high-profile murders, racketeering trials, and a lavish public image. In 1992, he was finally convicted and sentenced to life in prison, where he remained until his death in 2002. His life and crimes have been dramatized in films and books, cementing his place in American criminal lore.

Born in Warsaw in 1942, he studied physics and mathematics before entering journalism. He became a prominent commentator known for his libertarian and Eurosceptic positions. Elected to the Polish Sejm in 1991, he co-founded the Centre Agreement party. In 2011 he established the Congress of the New Right, later serving as a Member of the European Parliament from 2014 to 2018. His outspoken style and controversial statements have made him a polarizing figure in Polish and European politics. He continues to influence right-wing discourse through writing and public appearances.

Terry A. Anderson was an American journalist who reported for major news organizations around the world. In 1985, while serving as a correspondent in Beirut, he was kidnapped and held hostage for nearly seven years. His ordeal brought global attention to the dangers journalists face, and he later wrote a memoir about his experiences. After his release, Anderson continued to cover conflict zones and advocated for press freedom. He passed away in 2024, leaving a legacy of courage and dedication to journalism.

Evan Coyne Maloney is an American director, producer, and screenwriter known for his independent documentaries exploring social and political themes. His work gained attention through intimate profiles of university life and debates over free speech. Maloney has produced films for various media outlets and has written extensively on cultural trends. His documentaries are noted for their candid interviews and grassroots perspectives on contemporary issues.

Maneet Chauhan is a culinary educator and entrepreneur who brings modern Indian flavors to American menus. Born in Ludhiana, India, she trained at the Culinary Institute of America before launching her career in the United States. She has worked in renowned restaurants, including Tavern on the Green in New York City. Chauhan owns several eateries, such as Chauhan Ale & Masala House in Nashville, highlighting her signature spice blends. She is a three-time James Beard Award nominee and has authored cookbooks celebrating Indian home cooking. As a frequent judge on Food Network, she has become a familiar face to home cooks nationwide.

She began making films at age 12, writing and directing her debut feature Pathogen (2006) in her hometown of Austin, Texas. Hagins gained recognition for her youth-driven horror-comedy My Sucky Teen Romance (2011), which premiered at SXSW. Her third feature, Grow Up, Tony Phillips (2013), explored teen anxieties and was praised at film festivals worldwide. Known for her DIY spirit and creative storytelling, she has worked as a producer and screenwriter on various independent projects. Hagins continues to champion genre filmmaking and mentor aspiring young directors in the indie film community.