October 30

Rex Cherryman began his acting career in vaudeville before transitioning to Broadway and silent films. He appeared in several notable stage plays and was lauded for his expressive performances onscreen. Cherryman's work contributed to the formative years of American theater and cinema. Despite his rising popularity, his life and career were cut short by his untimely death in 1928. His performances remain a glimpse into the artistry of the silent era.

Ruth Gordon began acting on Broadway in the 1910s and later co-wrote several screenplays with her husband, Garson Kanin. She achieved film stardom later in life with memorable roles in Rosemary's Baby and Harold and Maude. In 1968, she won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Rosemary's Baby. Her distinctive voice and eccentric persona made her a beloved character actress. Gordon's versatility extended from stage to screen, influencing generations of performers.

Born Ruby Blevins in 1908 in Beaudry, Arkansas, she adopted the stage name Patsy Montana and learned to play the guitar as a teenager. She joined the WLS National Barn Dance radio show in Chicago in 1933, gaining popularity for her yodeling and original songs. In 1935, her recording of “I Want to Be a Cowboy’s Sweetheart” became the first million-selling single by a female country artist. Montana appeared in several Western films and toured with the Sons of the Pioneers, becoming a fixture of the Grand Ole Opry. Her blend of vibrant performance and songwriting helped pave the way for future women in country music. She continued to record and perform into the 1950s, leaving a lasting impact on the genre before her death in 1996.

Ruth Hussey was a versatile American actress whose career spanned film, stage, radio, and television from the 1930s to the 1980s. Born in Providence, Rhode Island, she trained at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts before signing with MGM Studios. Her breakout performance as the astute magazine photographer Elizabeth Imbrie in The Philadelphia Story (1940) earned her an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Hussey went on to star in films such as The Sin of Harold Diddlebock, Invitation, and State Fair, showcasing her dramatic range and wit. In later years, she appeared in popular television series like Perry Mason and Bonanza. Beyond acting, she taught drama and remained an advocate for the arts. Her refined talent and enduring performances have left a memorable legacy in classic Hollywood cinema.

Anna Wing was an English actress whose career spanned over seven decades across stage, film, and television. Born in London, she began acting in the 1930s with repertory theatre companies before appearing in British films such as Millions Like Us. In 1985, she originated the iconic role of Lou Beale on the BBC soap opera EastEnders, earning widespread recognition and affection from audiences. Wing's portrayal brought depth to the matriarchal character, making her a household name until her departure in 1988. She continued to work in television, including roles in Casualty, The Bill, and Doctors. Wing also remained active in theatre, performing in productions across the UK. Her contributions to British entertainment were celebrated with numerous awards and tributes following her death in 2013.

Jane Randolph was an American actress and cabaret singer known for her captivating performances in films of the 1940s. Born in Youngstown, Ohio, she broke into Hollywood with roles in Cat People and The Curse of the Cat People, showcasing her dramatic talent. Randolph also performed as a nightclub singer, enchanting audiences with her vocal artistry. In 1950, she left the film industry and settled in Switzerland, where she continued to engage in local theater and musical events. Her early work has been celebrated by classic film enthusiasts for its elegance and intensity. Despite a brief screen career, her performances left a lasting impression on the horror and noir genres. Randolph passed away in 2009, remembered for her unique contributions to Hollywood's Golden Age.

Jane White was an African American actress and singer celebrated for her versatile performances in theater, film, and television. She originated the role of Nettie Fowler in the Broadway production of Carousel and appeared in numerous off-Broadway plays. White’s powerful singing voice and commanding presence made her a standout performer in musicals and dramatic works. She also guest-starred on television series and appeared in films, breaking barriers for Black actresses in the mid-20th century. Her career spanned over five decades until her death in 2011.

Olga Zubarry starred in over 50 films across Argentina’s cinematic Golden Age, showcasing her versatility in drama and comedy. She made her debut at age 16 and quickly rose to fame for her striking screen presence and emotional depth. Zubarry worked with leading directors and actors, earning critical acclaim throughout the 1940s and 1950s. Her performance in ‘El Vampiro Negro’ displayed her ability to captivate audiences in genre-defying roles. Later in her career, she continued acting on stage and television, receiving lifetime achievement honors for her enduring influence on Latin American film.

Joanna Shimkus is a Canadian actress who gained fame in the 1960s through her roles in European arthouse films. Born in 1943 in Halifax, Nova Scotia, she made her screen debut in Italian and French productions before starring in British films such as The Virgin and the Gypsy (1970). Shimkus received critical acclaim for her performances alongside prominent directors of the era. In 1976, she married actor Sidney Poitier and later appeared in several films and television projects with him. Beyond acting, Shimkus has supported charitable causes and arts education. Her graceful presence and international career have left a mark on mid-20th-century cinema.

Henry Winkler (born 1945) is an American actor, comedian, director, and producer. He achieved fame portraying Arthur 'Fonzie' Fonzarelli on the hit 1970s sitcom Happy Days. Winkler has since appeared in numerous films and television shows, earning Emmy and Golden Globe awards. He has directed episodes of popular series such as Arrested Development and Parks and Recreation. In addition to acting, Winkler is a bestselling children’s author and a dedicated philanthropist.

Lynne Marta (1945–2024) was an American actress with a prolific career in film and television. She guest-starred in numerous popular TV series throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Her film appearances included a range of genres, showcasing her versatility as a performer. Marta's enduring presence on screen made her a recognizable talent in Hollywood. She continued to act into the 1990s, leaving a lasting impression through her varied roles.

Richard Alston is an influential English choreographer and dancer noted for his lyrical contemporary works. After training at the Rambert School, he joined the London Contemporary Dance Theatre as resident choreographer. In 1994, he founded the Richard Alston Dance Company, creating over 30 acclaimed works. His choreography is celebrated for its fluidity, musicality and inventive use of space. Alston's pieces have been performed internationally, from Sadler's Wells to the Venice Biennale. He has served as Artistic Director of the Royal Ballet School’s Contemporary Programme. Recognized for his contributions to dance, he was awarded a CBE. He continues to mentor emerging choreographers and shape modern dance.