November 20

Born in Austria in 1784, Willemer became a celebrated stage performer in Vienna. She formed a close friendship with Johann Wolfgang von Goethe later in his life. Her wit and charm inspired the 'Book of Marianne von Willemer,' a collection of Goethe's love poems. She balanced acting and dance roles, influencing early Romantic theater. After retiring from the stage, she preserved Goethe's letters and promoted his literary legacy.

Born in Newark, New Jersey in 1883, August began his career on the stage before moving to Hollywood. He appeared in over 300 silent films and directed more than 50 between 1909 and 1925. Known for his versatility, he worked across genres including drama, comedy, and westerns. August collaborated with studios like Universal and Biograph during cinema's formative years. He retired from acting in the 1940s and passed away in 1964, leaving a legacy in early American film.

Robert Armstrong was an American actor whose commanding presence and versatile performances left a mark on early Hollywood. He gained international fame for his role as writer Jack Driscoll in the original 1933 film King Kong. Armstrong's career spanned stage, silent films, and the talkie era, showcasing his adaptability as an actor. He appeared in a variety of genres, from adventure and drama to comedy. His contributions to cinema extended beyond acting, as he continued to work in film and television until the early 1950s.

Harald Madsen was a Danish actor renowned for his partnership with Carl Schenstrøm, forming the beloved comedy duo Pat and Patachon. Their slapstick humor and endearing screen personas earned them popularity across Europe during the silent film era. Madsen's gentle giant persona contrasted perfectly with Schenstrøm's lanky character, creating memorable comedic dynamics. The duo starred in numerous films throughout the 1920s and 1930s, influencing later generations of comic performers. Madsen's work remains a testament to the golden age of silent comedy.

Reginald Denny was an English stage and film actor whose career bridged the silent and sound eras of cinema. He appeared in numerous British and American films, including Alfred Hitchcock's Rebecca (1940). Denny was celebrated for his suave demeanor and versatility in both dramatic and comedic roles. Beyond acting, he was a pioneer in remote-controlled drone aircraft during World War II. His pioneering spirit and diverse talents left an enduring impact on entertainment and technology.

Grace Darmond was a Canadian-American actress who rose to prominence during the silent film era and transitioned into early talkies. She appeared in dozens of films from the 1910s through the 1930s, showcasing a range that spanned drama and comedy. Darmond worked with major studios such as Universal and Fox, often starring in feature and serial productions. Her adaptable performances reflected the evolving demands of cinema during a period of rapid technological change. Though her later career waned with the arrival of sound, her legacy endures in silent film classics.

Alexandra Danilova was born in Saint Petersburg and trained at the Imperial Ballet School before joining Diaghilev's Ballets Russes in 1924. She captivated audiences across Europe and the Americas with her expressive technique and dramatic presence in roles like Swan Lake and Giselle. After relocating to the United States, Danilova danced with the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo, where she became a celebrated star and cultural ambassador. Following her retirement from performance, she taught at the School of American Ballet, shaping future generations with her deep knowledge of classical technique. Danilova also choreographed original works for major ballet companies and assisted in staging landmark productions. Her career bridged Russian tradition and American innovation, leaving a lasting impact on 20th century ballet.

Fran Allison was born in La Porte, Indiana, in 1907 and began her career in radio broadcasting. She gained nationwide fame in 1947 when she joined the children’s puppet show "Kukla, Fran and Ollie" on NBC. Allison’s warm on-screen presence and quick wit endeared her to audiences of all ages. She hosted the show for over a decade, pioneering early television variety programming. Beyond puppetry, Allison appeared on numerous radio and TV specials, showcasing her singing talent. Her contributions helped shape family entertainment on American television until her retirement in the 1960s. She passed away in 1989, remembered as a trailblazer in broadcasting.

Judy Canova rose to fame in the 1930s with her self-deprecating humor and country-style musical performances. She starred in her own radio program, The Judy Canova Show, where her comedic timing and yodeling became trademarks. Canova appeared in over a dozen films for Republic Pictures, often playing eccentric country girls with big hearts. She also performed in nightclubs and on Broadway, showcasing her versatility as a singer and dancer. Canova's blend of comedy and music made her one of America's beloved entertainers of the mid-20th century.

Evelyn Keyes moved to Hollywood in the late 1930s and signed with Columbia Pictures. She gained fame for portraying Suellen O'Hara, Scarlett’s sister, in the classic film 'Gone with the Wind' (1939). Keyes appeared in over sixty films, showcasing her range in comedies, dramas, and thrillers. She later transitioned to television and stage work, earning praise for her versatility. In her later years, Keyes authored candid memoirs recounting her experiences in Hollywood’s Golden Age. She passed away in 2008, remembered for her spirited performances and enduring charm.

Phyllis Thaxter began her career on Broadway before making her film debut in the 1940s. She starred in notable films such as 'Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo' (1944) and later portrayed Martha Kent in 'Superman' (1978). In 1947, she was stricken with polio but made a remarkable return to acting on stage and screen. Thaxter worked extensively in television, appearing in series like 'Perry Mason' and 'Gunsmoke'. Her elegant presence and versatility made her a respected figure in Hollywood's golden age. She died in 2012, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances.

Born in Los Angeles in 1920, Douglas Dick got his start on Broadway before transitioning to Hollywood films. He appeared in classics such as 'Laura' (1944) and 'The Blue Dahlia' (1946), earning praise for his dramatic performances. After stepping away from acting, Dick studied psychology at UCLA and earned a Ph.D. He practiced as a clinical psychologist and taught courses on human behavior. His unique dual career bridged the arts and sciences, reflecting his lifelong commitment to understanding people. Douglas Dick died in 2015, remembered for both his screen presence and scholarly contributions.