November 26

Theophilus Cibber was the eldest son of actor-manager Colley Cibber and followed his father onto the London stage. He became known for his comedic roles and wrote several farces and pantomimes that were performed at Drury Lane and Lincoln’s Inn Fields. Cibber’s career was marked by both critical acclaim and controversy, including disputes with theater managers and challenges in his personal life. He also managed theaters and acted as a producer, contributing to the development of 18th-century English drama. Despite financial difficulties, his work influenced subsequent generations of actors and playwrights.

Albert Dieudonné was a French actor, director, and author born in 1889. He achieved fame for his iconic portrayal of Napoleon Bonaparte in Abel Gance’s 1927 film "Napoléon." Dieudonné also co-wrote the screenplay for the epic and later directed several films. A prolific creative, he penned numerous novels and works on French history and culture. His performance in "Napoléon" remains a landmark in silent cinema and influenced future biographical films. Dieudonné continued acting and writing into the mid-20th century before his death in 1976. He is celebrated as a multifaceted artist of the French film and literary world.

Frances Dee was an esteemed American actress whose career flourished in Hollywood from the early 1930s onward. She captivated audiences with her refined performances in romantic dramas and suspense thrillers. Dee worked with leading directors and co-stars of the Golden Age, earning acclaim for her emotional depth and on-screen presence. Beyond film, she supported theater and charitable causes, demonstrating a commitment to her community. Her legacy endures as a shining example of grace and talent in classic cinema.

Cyril Cusack was one of Ireland’s most revered actors, with a career spanning theater, film, and television. Born in South Africa and raised in Ireland, he honed his craft at the Abbey Theatre before becoming a leading figure in Irish drama. Cusack’s screen work included collaborations with prominent directors, showcasing his versatility in both dramatic and comedic roles. He mentored young performers and championed the growth of Ireland’s theatrical tradition. Known for his commanding presence and resonant voice, Cusack received numerous honors for his contributions to the arts. His artistic legacy continues through the work of his children and the generations he inspired.

Ernie Coombs was born in 1927 in Lewiston, Maine, and moved to Canada in 1963. He began his television career on the children's show 'Butternut Square' before launching 'Mr. Dressup' in 1967. For nearly 30 years, he entertained and educated children with handmade puppets and his iconic Tickle Trunk. His gentle manner and creativity made him a cherished figure in Canadian households. He was awarded the Order of Canada in 1996 for his outstanding contributions to children's programming. Coombs passed away in 2001, leaving a lasting legacy in educational entertainment.

Born as Betty Jean Striegler in 1929, Betta St. John began her career on stage before transitioning to Hollywood films. She appeared in classics such as The Robe and Dream Wife, showcasing her talents as an actress, singer, and dancer. St. John also starred in West End stage productions and toured internationally. Her versatile performances earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. After retiring in the 1960s, she focused on her family and lived between the United States and the United Kingdom until her passing in 2023.

Born in Lawrence, Massachusetts, in 1933, Robert Goulet began his career in Canada before making his Broadway debut as Lancelot in Camelot in 1960. His recording of "If Ever I Would Leave You" became a signature hit and earned him widespread acclaim. He released numerous albums, starred in television shows and films, and remained a popular concert performer. Goulet became a Canadian citizen in 1995 and continued entertaining audiences until his passing in 2007, leaving a lasting mark on musical theatre.

Born in 1933, Jamshid Mashayekhi graduated from the University of Tehran's School of Dramatic Arts and became a leading figure in Iranian cinema and theatre. He starred in landmark films such as The Cow, earning critical acclaim for his nuanced portrayals. Over a six-decade career, he appeared in more than 80 films and numerous stage productions, receiving multiple awards at the Fajr Film Festival. Mashayekhi's work left a lasting impact on the development of modern Iranian acting. He passed away in 2019, leaving a cherished legacy.

Marian Mercer was an American actress and singer who won a Tony Award for her performance in the Broadway musical 'Promises, Promises'. She appeared in numerous television sitcoms, including a memorable role on 'Three's Company'. Mercer also acted in films and toured with theatre companies across the United States. Her warm stage presence and vocal talent made her a beloved figure among audiences and colleagues alike. She continued performing until her death in 2011, leaving behind a legacy of iconic performances.

Rich Little (born 1938) is a Canadian-American comedian and actor celebrated for his uncanny celebrity impressions. Often called “The Man of a Thousand Voices,” he gained fame on television variety shows such as The Dean Martin Show and The Tonight Show. Little has impersonated iconic figures from presidents to Hollywood stars, headlining his own comedy specials and live performances in Las Vegas. He released numerous comedy albums that showcased his vocal versatility and wit. Over a career spanning six decades, he has influenced generations of impressionists and remains a benchmark in the art of mimicry.

Wayland Flowers (1939–1988) was an American puppeteer and actor celebrated for creating and voicing Madame, a sharp-tongued diva puppet. He brought Madame to television variety shows like The Hollywood Palace and The Mike Douglas Show, exposing adult audiences to risqué puppetry. Flowers’ flamboyant performances and camp humor broke new ground for puppetry on stage and screen. He toured nightclubs nationwide, starring in solo cabaret shows that blended comedy and ventriloquism. An openly gay performer, Flowers became a cult figure in LGBTQ entertainment circles and inspired future generations of puppeteers and comedians.

Mark Margolis (1939–2023) was an American character actor celebrated for his intense and memorable performances on stage and screen. He gained widespread acclaim as Hector Salamanca in the television series Breaking Bad and its prequel Better Call Saul, portraying a former cartel enforcer confined to a wheelchair. Margolis trained at the Actors Studio under Stella Adler and began his career in off-Broadway theater before moving into film. He formed a longtime collaboration with director Darren Aronofsky, appearing in Pi, Requiem for a Dream, The Fountain, and Black Swan. His film debut as Alberto in Scarface remains a career highlight, showcasing his versatility. Over five decades, he left a lasting legacy as a master of character acting.