October 29

Fanny Brice (1891–1951) was a celebrated American stage and screen performer. She rose to prominence in the 1910s as a headliner for Florenz Ziegfeld's Broadway revues. Brice created the enduring radio character 'Baby Snooks,' endearing herself to millions of listeners. Her versatile talents spanned singing, comedic acting, and dramatic roles. She appeared in several films during the 1920s and 1930s, showcasing her unique comedic timing. Her life and career became the basis for the hit musical and film 'Funny Girl'. She remains an iconic figure in American entertainment history.

Akim Tamiroff (1899–1972) was a Georgian-born American actor recognized for his distinctive character work. Born in Tiflis (now Tbilisi), he emigrated to the United States and established a film career. He rose to fame in the 1930s with memorable performances in both dramatic and comedic films. Tamiroff received critical acclaim for his role in 'The General Died at Dawn.' His screen presence and unique accent made him a sought-after supporting actor. Over a career spanning four decades, he collaborated with notable directors like John Ford. He also appeared on stage and in early television productions before his death in 1972.

Edwige Feuillère (1907–1998) was a leading French actress of stage and screen. Born in Vesoul, she captivated audiences with her elegance and emotional range. Feuillère's notable film roles include 'Lucrèce Borgia' (1935) and 'La Dame de chez Maxim's' (1933). She also enjoyed a prolific theater career, performing in both classical and modern works. Critics praised her nuanced portrayals and commanding stage presence. Her career spanned over six decades, influencing generations of French actors. Feuillère remains celebrated as a symbol of mid-20th-century French cinema.

Diana Serra Cary, affectionately known as "Baby Peggy," rose to fame in the 1920s as one of Hollywood’s most popular child stars. She appeared in over 150 silent films before retiring from acting in her teens. Decades later, she authored memoirs and books on silent cinema, including her acclaimed autobiography 'Whatever Happened to Baby Peggy?'. A tireless advocate for former child actors, Cary lectured internationally and donated her film collection to archives. She lived to be 101, preserving the memory of early Hollywood.

Born in Cheltenham, Hardy trained at LAMDA before embarking on a distinguished stage career. He won acclaim for his role as Winston Churchill in the BBC series 'Winston Churchill: The Wilderness Years.' Hardy portrayed Minister Cornelius Fudge in five of the Harry Potter films, bringing humor to the character. He appeared in the beloved series 'All Creatures Great and Small' as Siegfried Farnon. Hardy was a longstanding member of the Royal Shakespeare Company and performed in numerous classical productions. He was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1981 for his services to drama.

Jon Vickers was a celebrated Canadian operatic tenor whose career spanned from the 1950s to the 1980s. Renowned for his dramatic interpretations of roles in operas by Wagner, Mozart, and Verdi. He debuted at Covent Garden in 1957 and became a leading figure at the Metropolitan Opera. Vickers also appeared in film adaptations of opera and made a number of recordings that remain standards. His fearless acting and vocal intensity earned him critical acclaim and a devoted following worldwide.

Michael Jayston began his acting career in the 1960s with the Royal Shakespeare Company, earning praise for his classical stage performances. He gained widespread recognition as Soames Forsyte in the 1967 BBC adaptation of 'The Forsyte Saga', captivating audiences with his nuanced portrayal. On screen, Jayston took on diverse roles, including the villainous Max Largo in the James Bond film 'Never Say Never Again' (1983). His television credits span decades and include appearances in 'Doctor Who', 'Rumpole of the Bailey', and 'EastEnders'. Known for his rich voice and commanding presence, he remained active in voice work, narrating audiobooks and documentaries. Michael Jayston's versatility and dedication to his craft earned him a respected place in British acting until his passing in 2024.

Jack Shepherd trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and began his career on stage in the 1960s. He won acclaim for his work with the Royal Shakespeare Company and National Theatre productions. Shepherd created and starred as Detective Chief Inspector Charles Wycliffe in the TV series 'Wycliffe' (1994–1998). As a playwright, he wrote several works performed in London's West End, showcasing his storytelling talent. He directed productions across the UK, nurturing new actors and innovative theatre projects. Shepherd's multifaceted career has earned him respect as one of Britain's enduring acting figures.

Don Simpson was a prominent Hollywood producer known for his high-energy, high-concept action films of the 1980s. Partnering with Jerry Bruckheimer, he co-produced iconic movies such as Top Gun, Flashdance, and Beverly Hills Cop. Simpson's flair for combining star power with blockbuster spectacle helped redefine modern action cinema. He also worked as an actor and writer early in his career before finding his niche behind the camera. Despite his success, Simpson's life was marked by controversies over his extravagant lifestyle and clashes with studios. He died in 1996 but left a lasting impact on the film industry with his memorable productions.

Born on October 29, 1945, Melba Moore is an American singer and actress celebrated for her five-octave vocal range. She began her career on Broadway, starring in productions such as Hair and Purlie. Moore went on to record numerous R&B and disco hits in the 1970s and 1980s, including the chart-topping single This Is It. She received a Tony Award nomination for Best Actress in a Musical and has been recognized for her contributions to musical theatre and popular music. With a career spanning over five decades, Moore continues to be an influential figure in entertainment.

Born on October 29, 1947, Richard Dreyfuss is an American actor celebrated for his charismatic screen presence and versatility. He won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in The Goodbye Girl (1977) and earned acclaim for performances in Jaws, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, and American Graffiti. In later years, Dreyfuss became an outspoken political activist focused on civic education and voting reform. He founded The Dreyfuss Civics Initiative to support democracy through enhanced civic engagement and education. With a career spanning over five decades, he remains a respected figure in both entertainment and public life.

Born on October 29, 1948, Kate Jackson is an American actress, director, and producer who rose to fame in the 1970s. She starred as Sabrina Duncan in the hit television series Charlie's Angels, becoming one of the first female action icons on screen. Jackson earned Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for her performance in the television drama Scarecrow and Mrs. King. Beyond acting, she has directed and produced episodes of series such as The Hat Squad and Touched by an Angel. Her career spans film, television, and theatre, and she remains a celebrated figure in entertainment history.