November 22

Shemp Howard was born Samuel Horwitz in 1895 in Brooklyn, New York and became a beloved comedian and actor. As one of the original Three Stooges, he brought his unique flair of slapstick humor and improvisation to countless short films and features. After a stint pursuing solo projects, Shemp rejoined the group in 1947, delighting audiences with his quick wit and memorable expressions. His work contributed significantly to the golden age of comedy in the 1930s through the 1950s. Howard continued performing until his unexpected death from a heart attack in 1955, leaving behind a timeless catalog of laughter.

Born in Moscow in 1882, Theodore Kosloff trained as a classical dancer before immigrating to the United States. He joined early Hollywood studios as a choreographer and actor during the silent film era. Kosloff appeared in films such as Cleopatra (1917) and The Woman God Forgot (1917). He was one of the first professional ballet dancers to work in American cinema, blending stage and screen artistry. Beyond acting, he created and staged ballet sequences for films, helping to introduce classical dance to a wider audience. He continued choreographing and teaching dance until his death in Los Angeles in 1956.

Born in 1890 in France, Émile Drain began his acting career on the stage before transitioning to silent and early sound films. He appeared in productions such as Napoléon (1927), where he portrayed Napoleon Bonaparte. Drain regularly performed in Parisian theaters and collaborated with distinguished directors of the era. His filmography spans over two decades, reflecting the evolution of French cinema. Though less remembered today, his contributions helped shape performance standards in both mediums. He passed away in 1966, leaving behind a body of work that documents a vibrant period in French performing arts.

Born on August 17, 1893, in Brooklyn, New York, Mae West began performing in vaudeville and on Broadway before transitioning to Hollywood films in the 1930s. Her sharp wit, risqué humor, and memorable lines challenged censorship and earned her iconic roles in She Done Him Wrong (1933) and I'm No Angel (1933). West wrote many of her own plays and screenplays, championing female sexuality and independence. Despite facing studio and moral backlash, she became one of the highest-paid actresses of her time. She continued performing on stage and television into her 80s, leaving an enduring influence on comedy and popular culture. West died in 1980, celebrated as a trailblazer for women in entertainment.

Born John Randolph Crothers in 1910, he began his career as a jazz singer and scat musician. He transitioned to film and television, delivering memorable performances in 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest' and 'The Shining'. Crothers provided the voice for animated characters like Hong Kong Phooey and Scatman the Duck. His unique voice and comedic talent made him a beloved figure in entertainment. He passed away in 1986, leaving behind a diverse body of work in music, film, and television.

Born in 1905, Sterling Holloway began his career in vaudeville before moving to Hollywood. He appeared in classic films such as 'Alice in Wonderland' as the Cheshire Cat and voiced Winnie the Pooh. His warm, nasal tone also featured in live-action roles and commercials, including the Planters Peanut mascot. Holloway's voice became synonymous with charming, whimsical characters in Disney productions. He died in 1992, leaving a legacy as one of animation's most recognizable voices.

Christian Marquand (1927–2000) was a French actor who appeared in more than 50 films over four decades. He gained international recognition for his role in Roger Vadim's 'And God Created Woman' (1956). Marquand also starred in Hollywood productions including 'The Longest Day' and 'Lord Jim'. In addition to acting, he directed and wrote screenplays, showcasing his versatility behind the camera. He worked with iconic figures like Brigitte Bardot and Sophia Loren, cementing his place in European cinema. Marquand's career spanned from the golden age of French cinema to late 20th-century art-house films.

Parley Baer (1914–2002) was an American actor whose career spanned radio, film, and television. He was a regular cast member on 'The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet,' portraying the friendly neighbor Jack. Baer appeared in numerous radio programs such as 'Fibber McGee and Molly,' showcasing his versatile voice acting. On screen, he had supporting roles in films and TV shows, including 'The Green Hornet' and 'The Andy Griffith Show.' Baer also lent his voice to animated series, leaving a mark on multiple entertainment media. His warm presence and professionalism made him a beloved character actor across generations.

Maurice Béjart (1927–2007) was a pioneering French-Swiss dancer and choreographer. He founded the Ballet du XXe Siècle in Brussels in 1960, creating a home for his avant-garde work. His productions blended classical technique with modern themes, often incorporating political and cultural commentary. Béjart gained international acclaim with his interpretation of Ravel's Boléro, which remains iconic. He expanded the scope of ballet by integrating multimedia elements and collaborating with artists from diverse disciplines. As a director, he led several prominent dance institutions, influencing generations of dancers worldwide.