November 19

Born in 1727 in Paris, Noverre began his career as a dancer with the Paris Opera. He revolutionized ballet through his concept of ballet d'action, emphasizing expressive movement and storytelling. In his influential treatise Letters on Dancing and Ballets, he outlined principles that transformed choreography. Noverre’s works were performed in leading European courts, earning him patronage from royalty. He advocated for dancers to convey emotion and character, laying the foundations for narrative ballet. He died on November 19, 1810, remembered as the father of modern ballet.

Thomas H. Ince was born in 1880 and began his career as an actor before moving into production. He founded a film studio and introduced efficient shooting schedules and budgeting practices. Ince directed and produced numerous silent films, including early Westerns that set genre standards. His organizational innovations laid the groundwork for the Hollywood studio system. He died in 1924 amid rumors surrounding his sudden passing. Ince's contributions continue to influence the way films are produced today.

Jeanne Bérangère was born in 1864 and first made her mark on the Paris theater scene. She transitioned to silent films in the early 20th century, becoming known for her expressive performances. Bérangère took on a variety of roles, from dramatic leads to lighthearted comedies, showcasing her versatility. She collaborated with pioneering French directors and left a notable filmography. She passed away in 1928, remembered as one of the era’s memorable screen actresses.

Aage Redal was born in 1891 in Copenhagen and trained at the Royal Danish Theatre School before embarking on a distinguished acting career. He appeared in numerous stage productions, from classical dramas to contemporary works, earning praise for his emotional depth and commanding presence. In the silent and early sound film eras, Redal transitioned to the silver screen, starring in popular Danish films and helping to shape the nation's emerging cinema industry. His collaborations with leading directors of the time showcased his adaptability and range as an actor. Redal remained active in theater and film until his death in 1950, leaving a lasting impact on Denmark's performing arts heritage.

Francis L. Sullivan was born in 1903 in Lancashire, England, and developed an early passion for acting on the West End stage. Known for his imposing stature and deep, resonant voice, he excelled in roles ranging from Shakespearean drama to contemporary works. Sullivan transitioned to Hollywood in the 1940s, earning acclaim for performances in films such as Great Expectations (1946) and The Hound of the Baskervilles (1939). He collaborated with notable directors and stars, bringing depth and gravitas to supporting roles. Across a career spanning stage, screen, and radio, Sullivan demonstrated remarkable versatility and commitment to his craft. He passed away in 1956 in Los Angeles, leaving behind a filmography that continues to captivate audiences.

Phyllis Haver was a leading actress of the silent film era, celebrated for her vibrant performances. Born in 1899, she starred in over 50 films, embodying the spirit of the Roaring Twenties. Her breakthrough role came as Roxie Hart in the 1927 adaptation of Chicago, which made her a fashion and cultural icon. Known for her comedic timing and glamorous flapper style, she was one of Fox Studio's highest-paid stars. With the arrival of talkies, Haver chose to retire in 1930 and led a private life until her death in 1960.

Carmen Boni was an Italian-French actress celebrated for her captivating performances in silent and early sound cinema. Born in Rome in 1901, she began her film career in Italy, quickly attracting attention for her expressive acting style. Boni appeared in German productions such as Fritz Lang’s “Dr. Mabuse the Gambler” series, cementing her reputation in Europe. After marrying director Augusto Genina, she moved to France and featured in multiple French film productions. Her career slowed with the rise of talkies, and she spent her later years away from the screen until her death in 1963.

Lewis Sargent was an American film actor best remembered for his role as the Boy in The Miracle Man (1919). Born in 1903, he quickly gained recognition for his expressive performances in silent cinema. As he matured, Sargent adapted to supporting and character roles in early sound films. Over his career, he appeared in more than 80 productions, showcasing his versatility. He retired from acting in the 1940s and remained a figure of Hollywood’s golden silent era until his death in 1970.

Born Lincoln Theodore Monroe Andrew Perry in 1902, Stepin Fetchit became Hollywood's first Black millionaire through his film roles in the 1920s and 1930s. He portrayed characters that reflected racial stereotypes of the era, which later attracted both criticism and discussion about representation in media. Despite the controversy, Fetchit broke barriers by achieving unprecedented financial success and visibility for Black performers. He appeared in over 40 films, working with major studios and stars of his time. In his later years, he withdrew from public life amid changing attitudes toward his roles. Stepin Fetchit passed away on November 19, 1985.

Born Alfred Reginald Natzler in Vienna in 1907, he began acting on European stages before moving to Hollywood. He gained notoriety for his chilling performance in Alfred Hitchcock's The Man Who Knew Too Much (1956). His scarred visage and intense gaze made him a staple in horror cinema, notably appearing as the cemetery ghoul in Night of the Living Dead (1968). On television, he took on memorable roles in series such as Twin Peaks, further cementing his cult status. Nalder's unique appearance and dedication to his craft left an indelible mark on genre filmmaking.

Born in 1938 in San Mateo, California, Varsi was discovered in a casting call for the film adaptation of Peyton Place (1957). Her portrayal of Allison MacKenzie earned her a Golden Globe for Most Promising Newcomer and an Academy Award nomination. She starred in films such as The Best of Everything (1959) before leaving Hollywood to pursue personal interests. After a hiatus, she returned for roles in television and independent films but remained a private figure. Varsi's brief but luminous career left critics praising her naturalistic acting style. She died in 1992 at the age of 54, remembered for her striking debut performance.

Born in 1932 in Berlin, Helmut Griem trained at the Hochschule für Musik und Theater before joining the Burgtheater ensemble.\nHe gained international acclaim for his portrayal of SS officer Aschenbach in Visconti’s "The Damned" (1969).\nGriem’s nuanced performances spanned stage and screen, featuring in German and international productions.\nHe later directed numerous theater productions, showcasing his versatility behind the scenes.\nHis work earned him critical praise and awards in Europe’s leading dramatic circles.\nGriem’s legacy endures through his memorable roles and contributions to German theater and cinema.