November 23

Spranger Barry was born in Cork and rose to fame in London for his powerful performances in Shakespearean tragedies. He captivated audiences as Othello and Romeo, first alongside Mrs Cibber and later with Elizabeth Hartley. Barry’s tall stature and resonant voice made him a commanding stage presence. He managed theatres in Dublin and London, influencing production styles and actor training. Barry also toured the American colonies, earning acclaim for his dramatic flair. His friendly rivalry with David Garrick drew large crowds, and his impact on Georgian theatre endures in acting traditions.

Albert Ranft was born in 1858 in Stockholm, Sweden. He began acting in local theaters before rising to prominence as a leading stage performer. Ranft later took on roles as a theater director and producer, managing several important venues in Stockholm. His vision and business acumen helped professionalize Swedish theater and bring new works to the audience. Ranft’s influence extended beyond performance to theater organization and education. He died in 1938, leaving a lasting impact on Scandinavian performing arts.

Born in 1886, Eduards Smiļģis became a foundational figure in Latvian theater. He joined the Latvian National Theatre at its inception in 1919 and served as its director and artistic leader. Smiļģis promoted the use of the Latvian language and folklore in dramatic productions, fostering a national cultural identity. As an actor, he was celebrated for his emotional depth and versatility on stage. Over his career, he directed numerous classic and contemporary works, influencing generations of performers. Awarded the title People’s Artist, he continued to shape Latvian theater until his death in 1966.

Born William Henry Pratt in 1887, Boris Karloff began his career on the stage before transitioning to film. He rose to international fame with his iconic performance as Frankenstein’s monster in James Whale’s 1931 classic 'Frankenstein'. Karloff became a leading figure in horror cinema, starring in films such as 'The Mummy' and 'The Bride of Frankenstein'. His expressive face and nuanced performances brought depth to monstrous characters. Beyond horror, he appeared in comedies, dramas, and on television, showcasing his versatility. Karloff’s legacy endures as a pioneer of the horror genre until his death in 1969.

Born Adolph Marx in 1888, Harpo Marx was the second oldest of the Marx Brothers. He developed a unique stage persona by performing in silence, communicating through expressive body language and mime. Harpo’s skilled harp performances added musicality to the Marx Brothers’ films, including 'Duck Soup' and 'A Night at the Opera'. Off-screen, he was a talented composer and formed friendships with key figures in the arts. His whimsical costume, curly wig, and horn became iconic symbols of his character. Harpo’s comedic innovation and musical talent left a lasting impact on 20th-century entertainment until his death in 1964.

Victor Jory was a Canadian-American stage, film, radio, and television actor whose career spanned over five decades. He gained fame for his deep, resonant voice and portrayals of complex characters. Notable roles include Jonas Wilkerson in "Gone with the Wind" (1939) and Joaquin Murrieta in "The Mask of Zorro" (1940). He was a prolific radio performer, starring as Lamont Cranston in the radio series "The Shadow." On television, he made guest appearances on popular series such as "Perry Mason" and "Bonanza." Jory also had a strong presence on the stage, showcasing his versatility in dramatic roles. His commanding voice and presence made him one of Hollywood's most recognizable character actors. He left a lasting legacy in cinema and broadcasting before passing away in 1982.

George O'Hanlon was a character actor and writer whose career spanned radio, film, and television. He gained his widest recognition as the voice of the affable George Jetson in Hanna-Barbera's animated hit "The Jetsons." O'Hanlon appeared in numerous live-action roles, including comedies and B-movies throughout the 1940s and 1950s. As a screenwriter, he contributed scripts to radio dramas and industrial films, showcasing his versatile talents. He maintained a steady presence on television with guest appearances on series like "Perry Mason" and "The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet." His warm voice and comedic timing left a lasting mark on American pop culture.

Born in 1915, John Dehner began his career in radio before transitioning to film and television. He became a prolific character actor, appearing in classics like The Virginian and High Noon. His distinctive voice and commanding presence made him a favorite in Westerns and mystery genres. Dehner also lent his voice to animation and audiobooks. Over five decades, he amassed over 250 screen credits. He passed away in 1992, remembered as one of Hollywood's versatile supporting actors.

Born in 1916 in Kuala Lumpur, Michael Gough relocated to England to pursue acting. He gained fame starring in Hammer horror classics like The Phantom of the Opera. His portrayal of Alfred Pennyworth in Batman and its sequels made him a household name. Gough's career spanned stage, film, and television over six decades. He received a Tony Award nomination for his work on Broadway. Renowned for his versatility, he often played eccentric or villainous characters. He passed away in 2011, remembered for his elegant performances.

Born in 1921, Fred Buscaglione rose to fame with his jazz-influenced songs like Che Bambola and Whistle While You Work. He cultivated a charming gangster image with a signature tuxedo and cigar. Buscaglione appeared in several Italian films, showcasing his talents both as a singer and actor. His energetic performances and witty lyrics made him a star of Italy's postwar music scene. He tragically died in a car accident in 1960 at the height of his popularity. His legacy endures in Italian pop culture as an icon of style and swing.

Born in San Francisco in 1924, Paula Raymond began her career as a fashion model in New York City. She transitioned to acting in the late 1940s, appearing in film noir thrillers and Westerns. Raymond starred in movies such as "Rawhide" and worked with prominent directors of her time. In the 1950s and 1960s, she made guest appearances on popular television series, showcasing her versatility. Her striking looks and commanding presence made her a memorable figure on screen. Later in life, she taught drama and coached aspiring actors. She passed away in 2003, remembered for her contributions to mid-century cinema.

Elmarie Wendel trained in opera and musical theatre before transitioning to screen roles. She gained fame as Mrs. Dubcek on the hit sitcom '3rd Rock from the Sun'. She appeared in films like 'The Mask' and lent her voice to animated series. She performed in regional theater productions and cabaret shows, showcasing her versatile talents. Her warm comedic timing and distinctive voice made her a memorable presence on stage and screen for decades.