November 21

Jobyna Ralston was a prominent American actress of the silent film era, celebrated for her charm and versatility. Born in Colorado Springs in 1899, she began acting on stage before transitioning to Hollywood. She gained fame starring opposite Harold Lloyd in 1923's "Safety Last!" and 1924's "Girl Shy." Ralston's expressive performances and comedic timing endeared her to audiences worldwide. After marrying screenwriter Alfred J. Brewster, she retired from acting in 1926 to focus on family. She later made occasional television appearances before passing away in 1967, remembered as a silent cinema icon.

Eleanor Powell (1912–1982) was an American actress and one of Hollywood's most celebrated tap dancers during the 1930s and 1940s. She began her career on Broadway before signing with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. Powell starred in musicals such as Broadway Melody of 1936 and Follow the Fleet opposite Fred Astaire. Her athletic style and precision footwork set new standards in dance on film. After retiring from pictures, she continued performing on stage and taught dance, leaving a lasting legacy in American musical cinema.

Ralph Meeker was an American actor whose commanding presence and rugged good looks made him a favorite for tough-guy roles. He made his Broadway debut in 1949 and won acclaim for his performance in William Inge’s Picnic. Meeker starred in the classic film noir Kiss Me Deadly (1955), a role that became his signature. He appeared in over 50 films and numerous television series over a four-decade career. His versatility allowed him to play everything from hardened criminals to sympathetic leads. Meeker also worked extensively in summer stock theatre and on radio dramas. His work continues to influence actors portraying complex antiheroes.

Joseph Campanella was an American actor whose career spanned more than six decades across film, television, and voice work. He is best remembered for his roles as Lew Wickersham on the detective series Mannix and as Dr. Larry Wolek on the soap opera The Guiding Light. Campanella appeared in dozens of other series, including Star Trek, The Man from U.N.C.L.E., and Dynasty. His rich baritone voice made him a sought-after choice for narration and voice acting in animated films. He also performed on stage on Broadway and in regional theaters. Campanella received a Daytime Emmy nomination and was honored by the Soap Opera Digest Awards. His versatility and professionalism made him a respected figure in the entertainment industry.

Matti Ranin was a Finnish actor whose career spanned film, television, radio, and theater for over six decades. He gained national fame for his portrayal of Lieutenant Koskela in Edvin Laine’s classic film The Unknown Soldier (1955). Ranin was a leading figure at the Finnish National Theatre and appeared in numerous regional theater productions. His deep, resonant voice made him a popular narrator for documentaries and voice actor for animated features, including roles in the Moomins franchise. He also starred in Finnish television series and feature films, earning several Jussi Award nominations. Ranin mentored young actors and taught at theatrical schools. He is remembered as one of Finland’s most versatile and respected performers.

Laurence Luckinbill was born in 1934 and studied drama at Yale School of Drama. He gained acclaim for his portrayals of historical figures, including his award-winning role as Abraham Lincoln. Luckinbill wrote and directed several successful plays, exploring themes of history and human character. On screen, he appeared in films such as 'Soylent Green' and popular TV series like 'Murder, She Wrote'. He received a Drama Desk Award for his stage work and has lectured on the craft of acting. His career spans over six decades, reflecting a deep passion for storytelling in multiple mediums.

Ingrid Pitt was born in Poland in 1937 and survived World War II as a child. She studied acting in London and became known for her roles in cult horror classics like 'The Vampire Lovers'. Pitt's exotic looks and dramatic flair made her a favorite at Hammer Film Productions. Beyond film, she starred in theater productions and authored several books on history and the supernatural. Her passionate advocacy for Holocaust remembrance honored her heritage and personal history. Pitt's unique blend of beauty and intensity left a lasting mark on genre cinema.

Marlo Thomas was born in 1937 to comedian Danny Thomas and pursued acting at NYU. She gained fame as Ann Marie in the groundbreaking TV series 'That Girl' (1966–1971). Thomas produced and starred in numerous TV specials and shows, earning multiple Emmy Awards. She founded St. Jude Children's Research Hospital's 'Thanks & Giving' campaign to support children's health. An outspoken advocate for women's and children's rights, she has authored best-selling books. Her enduring career blends entertainment and activism, inspiring generations of audiences.

Freddy Beras-Goico was born in 1940 in Santo Domingo and became one of the most beloved figures in Dominican entertainment. He gained fame with his incisive satirical humor on television and radio. Over a career spanning five decades, he hosted popular programs such as El Show del Mediodía. Beras-Goico also worked as a journalist and producer, shaping Dominican media. He received numerous awards for his contributions to comedy and social commentary. Beyond entertainment, he was active in philanthropic efforts supporting children's health. He passed away in 2010, leaving a lasting impact on Caribbean television culture.

Natalia Makarova was born in 1940 in Leningrad and trained at the Vaganova Academy. She became a principal dancer with the Kirov Ballet before defecting to the West in 1970. Shortly after, she joined the American Ballet Theatre, where she performed iconic roles in 'Giselle,' 'Swan Lake,' and 'The Sleeping Beauty.' Makarova also established herself as a talented choreographer, creating new productions and restaging classics. She appeared in the 1977 film 'The Turning Point,' earning an Academy Award nomination. Beyond performance, she has served as an artistic director and teacher, influencing generations of dancers. Makarova's artistry and dramatic presence continue to inspire the ballet world.

Juliet Mills was born in 1941 in London into an acting family, the daughter of Sir John Mills and Mary Hayley Bell. She began her career on stage and made her film debut as a child in her parents' films. Mills gained international recognition for her starring role in the television series 'Nanny and the Professor' (1970–1971). She received an Emmy nomination for her performance in the miniseries 'The Awakening Land.' Over five decades, she has appeared in numerous films, TV shows, and stage productions, demonstrating remarkable versatility. Mills has also worked as a voice actress and continues to perform on screen and stage. Her career reflects a richly woven legacy in both British and American entertainment.

Born in Chicago in 1944, Harold Ramis began his career with the improvisational troupe The Second City. He co-wrote National Lampoon's Animal House and the hit comedy Meatballs. Ramis directed cult classics such as Caddyshack and Ghostbusters, blending sharp wit with physical humor. He wrote and starred in Groundhog Day, a film celebrated for its unique premise and philosophical depth. Ramis earned an Emmy for writing The National Lampoon Radio Hour and influenced a generation of comedy filmmakers. He produced and acted in numerous projects before his passing in 2014, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of film comedy.