November 05

Born Mary Louise Cecilia Guinan in 1884 in Waco, Texas, she began her career on Broadway and in silent films. Guinan moved to New York City and opened her first speakeasy in 1919, quickly becoming a celebrated hostess. Known for her flamboyant style and trademark greeting "Hello, Sucker!", she drew celebrities, writers, and even gangsters. She expanded her empire to include a chain of nightclubs that set the standard for Jazz Age nightlife. Guinan’s larger-than-life persona and business acumen made her an icon of 1920s American culture. Her legacy endures in stories of the Roaring Twenties and the golden age of nightclubs.

George M. Cohan was an American entertainer whose work shaped early musical theater. Born in 1878 in Providence, Rhode Island, he began performing with his family troupe as a child. Cohan wrote and composed over 300 songs, including classics like Yankee Doodle Dandy and Over There. He starred in numerous Broadway shows and owned the Cohan Theatre, earning him the nickname 'the Man Who Owned Broadway'. In addition to acting and songwriting, he authored plays and managed theatrical productions. His contributions to American entertainment were honored with a Congressional Gold Medal shortly before his death in 1942. Cohan's influence endures in Broadway traditions and the standards of musical theater.

Ward Bond was an American actor known for his prolific work in film and television. Born in 1903 in Benkelman, Nebraska, he studied drama at the University of Southern California. Bond frequently collaborated with director John Ford, appearing in Westerns like The Searchers and Fort Apache. He is also remembered for his warm-hearted role as Bert the cop in It's a Wonderful Life. From 1957 until his death, Bond portrayed Major Seth Adams in the popular TV series Wagon Train. His rugged presence and versatility made him a standout character actor during Hollywood's Golden Age. Bond's enduring performances continue to resonate with audiences today.

Born in 1880 in Richmond, Quebec, Sennett began his career as an actor before moving behind the camera. In 1912, he founded Keystone Studios, where he created the iconic Keystone Cops and discovered Charlie Chaplin. Dubbed the 'King of Comedy', he produced hundreds of silent short films characterized by fast-paced slapstick. Sennett nurtured talents like Mabel Normand and Fatty Arbuckle, shaping the early Hollywood studio system. His influence on film comedy endured through subsequent generations of filmmakers and comedians. He retired in the 1930s but remained a revered figure in cinematic history until his death in 1960.

Born in Montreal in 1930, Jutra emerged as a leading voice in the French-Canadian cinema of the 1960s. He directed documentaries and feature films that captured Quebec’s social and cultural realities. His 1971 film "Mon oncle Antoine" is widely regarded as one of Canada’s greatest films. Jutra also acted and wrote screenplays, showcasing his versatility in filmmaking. He won multiple Canadian Film Awards and international recognition at film festivals. As a pioneer, he helped establish a distinct Quebecois cinematic identity. Jutra died in 1986, leaving an enduring influence on Canadian film history.

Born in Dublin, Eamonn Andrews began his career as a radio announcer before moving to television in the early 1950s. He gained national fame as the original host of the UK's This Is Your Life, delighting audiences with surprise reunions and heartfelt stories. Andrews also fronted popular game shows like What's My Line? and anchored lead coverage of Eurovision Song Contests. Known for his warm demeanor and quick wit, he became one of Britain’s most beloved presenters over three decades. Beyond broadcasting, he served as chairman of the Radio and Television Society, influencing the development of British media. His legacy endures in the format of modern interview and reality-style television programming.

Born in 1908 in Kankakee, Illinois, Fred MacMurray began his career in musical theatre before signing with Paramount Pictures in 1934. He starred in acclaimed films such as Double Indemnity, The Caddy, and The Absent-Minded Professor, showcasing his range from drama to comedy. In 1960, MacMurray transitioned to television, charming audiences as the widowed patriarch in the long-running sitcom My Three Sons. Off-screen, he achieved financial success as a real estate investor and lumber businessman, demonstrating keen entrepreneurial instincts. Known for his affable screen presence and professional reliability, he worked steadily for over five decades. MacMurray’s dual legacy as a beloved actor and astute businessman endures in Hollywood history.

Born in 1943, Cooper served in the U.S. Navy before becoming a leading figure in the modern conspiracy movement. He published 'Behold a Pale Horse' in 1991, a book that outlined his theories on secret government operations and extraterrestrial life. Cooper's confrontational style and bold claims attracted a devoted following, but also criticism from skeptics. His radio program 'The Hour of the Time' ran for over a decade, influencing fringe political discourse. He accused major institutions of corruption and urged listeners to question official narratives. Despite legal troubles and heated debates, his work laid the groundwork for many online conspiracy communities. He died in 2001 during a confrontation with law enforcement, cementing his legacy as a martyr in conspiracy circles.

Born in 1932 in Harlem, Jones moved to Europe in the 1950s and quickly made his mark on stage and screen. He starred in musicals and television programs, earning praise for his charisma and versatility. Jones became the first black actor to regularly appear on Dutch television, paving the way for greater diversity in the industry. His performances in productions like 'Pension Hommeles' and various revues showcased his dynamic talents. In addition to acting, he released music recordings that found success among Dutch audiences. Jones was recognized with awards for his pioneering contributions to European entertainment. He passed away in 2004, but his trailblazing career continues to inspire performers across the continent.

Virginia MacWatters (1912–2005) enjoyed a distinguished career as a soprano, performing leading roles with major American opera companies. She was also an accomplished actress, appearing in musical theatre productions and films. MacWatters made numerous radio broadcasts and recordings, showcasing her clear tone and expressive range. In addition to her performance career, she taught masterclasses and inspired young singers. She is remembered for her artistry and contributions to American musical culture.

Jill Clayburgh (1944–2010) earned critical acclaim and two Academy Award nominations for her roles in An Unmarried Woman and Starting Over. She portrayed strong, independent women and became a voice for feminist cinema in the 1970s and ’80s. Clayburgh also showcased her musical talents in Broadway productions and concert performances, displaying a rich singing voice. Throughout her career, she received Tony and Golden Globe nominations, reflecting her range as a performer. Clayburgh’s legacy endures through her memorable characters and contributions to film and theatre.

Shirley Verrett (1931–2010) achieved international fame for her versatile vocal range, seamlessly transitioning between mezzo-soprano and dramatic soprano roles. She graced the world’s leading opera houses, including the Metropolitan Opera and Paris Opera, in roles such as Carmen and Didon. Verrett also appeared in film and on the concert stage, earning praise for her dramatic intensity and warmth. Throughout her career, she received Grammy nominations and the National Medal of Arts. Verrett’s contributions broke barriers for African-American performers in classical music.