November 25

Edward Alleyn was a leading English actor of the late 16th and early 17th centuries. He rose to prominence in Shakespeare's acting company and became one of the era's highest-paid performers. In 1619 he founded Dulwich College and the College of God's Gift charitable trust to support education and the poor. He invested widely in property around London, securing his lasting wealth. Alleyn's bequests established one of England's first grammar schools, leaving a legacy that bridged theatre and philanthropy.

Bill "Bojangles" Robinson (1878-1949) revolutionized tap dance with his innovative footwork and signature stair dance. Rising from vaudeville and Broadway stages, he broke racial barriers to become a box-office star in Hollywood films. His on-screen collaborations with Shirley Temple in the 1930s charmed audiences worldwide and elevated the art of tap. Robinson's technique, emphasis on musicality, and graceful performance influenced countless dancers and choreographers. Despite facing segregation, he achieved international acclaim and left a lasting legacy celebrated in dance festivals and honors.

Born in 1922 in Cannes, Gérard Philipe emerged as one of France's most charismatic actors. He debuted on stage in the 1940s and quickly starred in acclaimed films such as Fanfan la Tulipe and Le Diable au corps. Celebrated for his charm and versatility, he became a symbol of French cinema's renaissance. Beyond his screen presence, he was admired for his intellectual curiosity and commitment to social issues. Though his life was cut short by liver disease at just 37, his performances left a lasting impact. Today, he is remembered as an icon of elegance and passion on both stage and screen.

Born in 1925 as Kimitake Hiraoka, Yukio Mishima rose to fame with novels like Confessions of a Mask and The Temple of the Golden Pavilion. A prolific writer, he also worked as an actor and film director, showcasing his multifaceted talents in Japanese arts. Mishima founded the Tate no Kai, a private militia, reflecting his obsession with traditional samurai values and nationalism. His dramatic public life culminated in a ritual suicide after a failed coup attempt in 1970, shocking the world. Renowned for his elegant prose and complex exploration of beauty and violence, Mishima remains a polarizing cultural icon. His works continue to inspire debates on modernity, identity, and ideology in Japan and beyond.

Born in Lithuania in 1928, he moved to England as a child and pursued acting. He achieved international fame with his breakout role in Room at the Top (1959), earning a Golden Globe. He became known for his suave, often villainous characters in films such as The Manchurian Candidate (1962). Harvey worked in both British and Hollywood productions, showcasing versatility on stage and screen. Despite his success, he struggled with health issues and died of cancer in 1973 at age 45. His legacy endures as a distinctive leading man of the postwar era.

Born in 1907, he began his career in vaudeville and Broadway musicals, winning a Tony Award in 1959. He earned the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor in 1968 for his performance in The Subject Was Roses. He charmed audiences as Grandpa Joe in Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971) with his warm presence. On television, he starred as Ed Brown in Chico and the Man, earning an Emmy for his work. His talents spanned acting, singing, and dancing, making him a versatile entertainer of his era. He passed away in 1981 at the age of 74, leaving behind a rich legacy of performance.

Eleanor Audley (1905-1991) was an American actress celebrated for her distinctive voice and on-screen presence. She gained fame as the voice of Lady Tremaine in Disney's 'Cinderella' (1950) and Maleficent in 'Sleeping Beauty' (1959), creating two of the studio's most memorable villains. In addition to her voice work, Audley appeared on television series such as 'Green Acres' where she portrayed the wealthy and sharp-tongued Margaret Drysdale. She began her career in theater and radio, showcasing her versatility across multiple media. Known for her commanding voice and regal bearing, Audley left a lasting impact on both animation and live-action entertainment. Her performances continue to be celebrated by Disney fans worldwide.

Flip Wilson (1933-1998) was a trailblazing African American comedian known for his warm wit and beloved television persona. He starred in 'The Flip Wilson Show' (1970-1974), becoming the first Black entertainer to host a successful network variety series and winning an Emmy Award for his work. Wilson created memorable characters such as Geraldine Jones, whose catchphrase 'What you talkin' about, Geraldine?' entered the American vernacular. Prior to television fame, he honed his craft on nightclub stages and as a stand-up performer. Wilson also appeared in films and released comedy albums that showcased his improvisational talent. His pioneering success opened doors for future generations of comedians and remains an important chapter in television history.

Born Julia Phyllis McConnell in 1916, Phyllis Fraser appeared in Hollywood films before marrying publisher Bennett Cerf. In 1957, she co-founded Beginner Books alongside Dr. Seuss, helping to revolutionize early childhood literacy. As editorial director, she oversaw classics like 'Green Eggs and Ham' and nurtured young authors. Fraser championed accessible, engaging books that encouraged reading among beginners. She continued her philanthropic and literary work until her death in 2006, leaving a lasting legacy in children's literature.

Dinah Sheridan gained fame as a child star in British cinema during the 1930s. She delivered memorable performances in classics such as "The Railway Children" (1970) and "Genevieve" (1953). Sheridan's elegance and charm made her a beloved figure on stage and screen. She worked alongside leading actors of her era and appeared in numerous television series. Her enduring legacy includes a body of work that continues to delight film enthusiasts.

Sitara Devi was born in 1920 in Kolkata, India into a family of dancers and musicians. She began learning Kathak at the age of six under the guidance of her aunt and quickly rose to prominence. Devi toured internationally and brought classical dance to the silver screen with memorable performances in Bollywood films. Renowned for her rhythmic precision and expressive abhinaya, she introduced innovative choreography blending tradition with contemporary flair. In 1957, she was honored with the Padma Shri, and later received the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award. Devi continued teaching and performing late into her life, leaving an enduring legacy in Indian classical dance.

Ron Glass was an American actor celebrated for his versatile performances in television and film. He portrayed Detective Ron Harris on the sitcom 'Barney Miller' (1975–1982), earning critical acclaim. Glass gained a new generation of fans as Shepherd Book in Joss Whedon's cult hit 'Firefly' (2002). His career also included roles in 'The Dark Knight' and voice work in animated features. Known for his warm presence and range, Glass left a lasting impact on popular culture. He is remembered as a beloved figure by colleagues and audiences alike.