November 08

Marie Prevost (1896-1937) was a Canadian-born actress and singer who rose to fame as one of Mack Sennett's popular bathing beauties in early silent comedies. Transitioning to feature films in the late 1910s, she became a leading lady in both comedies and dramas at Universal and Warner Bros. Known for her vivacious screen presence and singing performances, she was a favorite of audiences during the 1920s. The advent of sound film brought challenges to her career, leading to fewer roles and personal struggles. Prevost's life ended tragically in 1937, highlighting the darker side of Hollywood's Golden Age. Her legacy endures through her pioneering work in silent cinema.

June Havoc was an American entertainer whose versatility shone on Broadway, in Hollywood, and on television. The younger sister of burlesque star Gypsy Rose Lee, she first captivated audiences in vaudeville before starring in major Broadway hits like 'Pal Joey.' Havoc later authored a bestselling memoir and continued acting in film and TV, earning acclaim for her dramatic roles. She also directed theater productions and taught acting, influencing new generations. Her resilience and artistic range made her a beloved figure in American entertainment.

Norman Lloyd was an American actor, director, and producer celebrated for his enduring presence in entertainment. He collaborated with legends such as Orson Welles in 'The Trial' and Alfred Hitchcock in 'Saboteur,' later producing episodes of 'Alfred Hitchcock Presents.' A co-founder of the Actors Studio, Lloyd directed numerous stage productions and mentored emerging talent. Remarkably, he continued to perform into his centenarian years, appearing in hit films and TV shows. His creativity and vitality made him a Hollywood institution.

Sitara Devi was an Indian actress and dancer whose Kathak performances earned her the title of the 'Empress of Dance'. She trained under renowned gurus and innovated new movements that enriched classical Indian dance. Devi appeared in films and stage productions, bringing classical dance to wider audiences. As a choreographer, she created numerous dance pieces blending tradition with creative expression. Her artistic legacy continues to inspire dancers around the world.

Esther Rolle was an American actress renowned for her portrayal of Florida Evans, the matriarch on the sitcom 'Good Times'. Her performance earned critical acclaim and highlighted strong African-American family narratives on television. Rolle began her career in theater before transitioning to film and television roles. She won a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Series Musical or Comedy. Her dignified presence and talent made her a trailblazer for actresses of color.

Joe Flynn served in the US Army during World War II before studying drama and beginning his acting career on Broadway. He rose to prominence playing the bumbling Captain Wallace Binghamton in the hit television sitcom The Phil Silvers Show. Flynn appeared in films such as Something Wild and the Disney comedy The Million Dollar Duck. His expressive face and impeccable comedic timing made him a beloved character actor. He also guest-starred on popular series like The Andy Griffith Show. Flynn’s career was cut short when he died in a tragic boating accident in 1974 at the age of 49, but his performances remain classic examples of television comedy.

Ken Dodd began entertaining audiences in Liverpool in the 1950s with his stand-up comedy and whimsical Diddy Men characters. He achieved pop success with the 1965 single 'Tears', which topped the UK charts and sold over a million copies. Dodd was renowned for marathon performances, quick wit, and his iconic tickling stick prop. He was awarded a knighthood in 2017 for his services to entertainment and charity. Dodd set records for the longest solo stand-up show and remained active on stage and television for over six decades. His comedic legacy endures as one of Britain’s greatest variety performers. He passed away in 2018 at the age of 90.

Patti Page (1927–2013) was an American singer and actress whose career spanned six decades. She began performing on radio as a teenager and became the first female vocalist to sell over a million copies of a single with 'Tennessee Waltz'. Page hosted her own television variety show, earned multiple Grammy nominations, and appeared in films and Broadway musicals. Renowned for her warm, clear voice and versatile repertoire, she recorded over 100 albums and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Page's enduring classics continue to influence artists across genres.

Stéphane Audran (1932–2018) was a French actress celebrated for her refined presence and versatility. She rose to international prominence through her collaborations with director Claude Chabrol, starring in classics such as 'Le Boucher' and 'Violette Nozière'. Audran also appeared in Luis Buñuel's 'The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie', earning a César Award for Best Actress. Beyond film, she worked in theater and television, showcasing her range in both dramatic and comedic roles. Audran's timeless elegance and nuanced performances secured her status as one of France's most beloved actresses.

Born on November 8, 1935, in Sceaux, France, Delon rose to fame with his breakthrough roles in Rocco and His Brothers (1960) and Purple Noon (1960). His collaboration with directors like Luchino Visconti and Jean-Pierre Melville produced masterpieces such as The Leopard (1963) and Le Samouraï (1967). As founder of Adel Productions, he expanded his creative influence into producing and screenwriting, supporting emerging filmmakers and bold projects. Over a career spanning more than five decades, Delon earned critical acclaim for his intense performances and iconic style. He remained a leading figure in European cinema until his death in 2024.

Virna Lisi was born Virna Pieralisi on November 8, 1936, in Ancona, Italy. She began her film career in the 1950s and soon attracted international attention, starring opposite big Hollywood names such as Jack Lemmon in How to Murder Your Wife (1965). Returning to Europe, Lisi delivered acclaimed performances in films like The Secret of Santa Vittoria (1969) and Queen Margot (1994), earning her the Cannes Film Festival Award for Best Actress. Known for her magnetic on-screen presence and versatility, she appeared in over 90 films across five decades. Lisi’s graceful performances and enduring charm made her one of Italy’s most beloved actresses until her death in 2014.

Born Margaret Jean 'Meg' Owen on November 8, 1939, in Liverpool, England, Meg Wynn Owen trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. She appeared in films such as Alfred Hitchcock’s Frenzy (1972) and The Eagle Has Landed (1976), demonstrating a versatile range from drama to thriller. On television, she gained wide recognition as Blanche Mottershead in the acclaimed series Upstairs, Downstairs (1971–75) and as Lady Julia Flyte in Brideshead Revisited (1981). Owen’s nuanced portrayals of refined yet complex characters made her a beloved figure in British entertainment over a career spanning five decades. She passed away in 2022, leaving behind a rich legacy of memorable roles.