December 08

Born in 1904, Gladys George began her acting career as a child on stage before transitioning to film in the 1920s. She became known for portraying strong, complex women in both dramas and comedies. In 1947, George earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Valiant Is the Word for Carrie. Beyond Hollywood, she found success on radio and television, showcasing her versatility. Her nuanced performances and powerful screen presence made her a standout talent of her generation. George continued acting until her death in 1954.

Slim Pickens began his career as a rodeo clown and bull rider before moving to Hollywood. He appeared in over 70 films, often portraying rugged Western characters. His most iconic role was Major "King" Kong in Stanley Kubrick’s film "Dr. Strangelove." Pickens also starred in classics like "Blazing Saddles," "One-Eyed Jacks," and "The Getaway." Known for his distinctive drawl and comedic timing, he became a beloved character actor. He passed away in 1983, leaving a legacy of memorable performances.

Born into a family of actors, Adler built a remarkable career on Broadway and in Hollywood, captivating audiences with roles in plays by Shakespeare and Chekhov. Over six decades, he appeared in dozens of films and TV shows, earning acclaim for his depth and intensity. A founding member of the Actors Studio, he influenced generations of performers through both his work and teaching. His collaborations with legendary directors and co-stars cemented his reputation as a consummate professional. Adler's legacy lives on through his memorable performances and the actors he mentored.

Rollins earned critical acclaim for his role as Private C.J. Memphis in the film 'A Soldier's Story,' showcasing his talent and depth. He later starred as Virgil Tibbs in the long-running television adaptation 'In the Heat of the Night,' gaining a loyal fan base. Trained at the Juilliard School, he also appeared on Broadway and in films such as 'Ragtime.' Despite personal struggles with addiction, his on-screen charisma remained undeniable. His untimely death at age 46 cut short a promising career, but his performances continue to be celebrated.

Bob Bell was an American television personality who gained fame as Bozo the Clown on WGN-TV in Chicago from 1960 to 1984. Born in Flint, Michigan, he began his career as a radio announcer and commercial artist before developing the Bozo character. Under his portrayal, Bozo became a beloved icon of children's television, drawing millions of viewers for live audiences and TV broadcasts. Bell helped shape the format of children's programming with interactive segments, comedy, and audience participation. He received a lifetime achievement award from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. After retiring, he remained a celebrated figure at fan conventions and charity events. Bell passed away in 1997 after a battle with Alzheimer's disease, leaving a lasting legacy in children's entertainment.

Oliver Postgate was an English animator, writer and voice actor. He co-founded the independent production company Smallfilms with Peter Firmin in the 1950s. Together they created beloved children's television series including Bagpuss, The Clangers, and Mr Benn. Postgate provided the distinctive narration and many of the character voices in his shows. His simple stop-motion animation style and gentle storytelling left a lasting legacy on British children's TV. He wrote and directed each episode, handling nearly every aspect of production himself. Postgate's work continues to inspire modern animators and storytellers worldwide.

Robert Prosky was an American character actor acclaimed for his work on stage, film, and television. He earned a Tony Award nomination for his Broadway debut in The Floating Light Bulb. Prosky delivered memorable film performances in movies like The Natural, Hoffa, and Broadcast News. He was a regular on television, guest-starring in series such as Hill Street Blues and Chicago Hope. Known for his commanding presence and gravelly voice, he often portrayed authoritative figures. Prosky trained at the Goodman School of Drama in Chicago and became a fixture of the city's theater scene. He later joined the Arena Stage in Washington, D.C., where he continued to earn critical acclaim. Over a career spanning five decades, he appeared in over 70 films and numerous television shows. His versatility and dedication left a lasting mark on American performing arts.

John Trudell was a Santee Dakota activist who served as the national chairman of the American Indian Movement (AIM) during the 1970s. He became a powerful voice for indigenous rights through his poetry and music, releasing several spoken-word albums that blended spoken word with folk and rock influences. Trudell also appeared in films such as 'Thunderheart' and wrote screenplays addressing Native American issues. Throughout his life, he combined art and activism to raise awareness of social injustices faced by Native peoples. He continued to write and perform until his death, inspiring generations of activists and artists with his commitment to justice and cultural preservation.

René Auberjonois was an accomplished American actor whose career spanned stage, film, and television. He won a Tony Award for his performance in the Broadway musical 'Coco' and starred as Father Mulcahy in the film M*A*S*H. Auberjonois was widely recognized for his role as the shape-shifting Odo on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. He lent his voice to numerous animated productions, including Paul Atreides in the film 'Dune' and Chef Louis in Disney's 'The Little Mermaid.' With a career lasting over six decades, he earned praise for his versatility and depth across genres. Auberjonois passed away in 2019, leaving behind a rich legacy of memorable performances.

Caroll Spinney was an American puppeteer and actor born in 1933 in Massachusetts. For over five decades, he performed as Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch on Sesame Street, endearing himself to generations of viewers. Spinney's artistry and character work helped shape the educational and entertainment legacy of the long-running children's series. Beyond Sesame Street, he made appearances in film and television productions, showcasing his versatility as a performer. He received a Daytime Emmy Award for his contributions and published an autobiography detailing his life behind the puppets. Spinney's dedication to his craft left a lasting impact on puppetry and children's programming.

Charles Patrick Ryan O'Neal, born in 1941 in Los Angeles, was an American actor. He gained fame for his sensitive performance in the 1970 film "Love Story," earning a Golden Globe nomination. In 1973, he starred alongside his daughter Tatum O'Neal in "Paper Moon," receiving an Academy Award nomination. His career spanned film and television, with notable roles in "Barry Lyndon", "What's Up, Doc?", and the series "Peyton Place". O'Neal's on-screen charisma and versatility made him a beloved figure in Hollywood from the 1970s onward. He passed away in 2023, leaving a body of work that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.

Jill Jacobson was an American actress born in 1954. Throughout her career, she appeared in both film and television productions, bringing diverse characters to life. Specific details of her roles and filmography are not widely documented. Her performances contributed to the storytelling of various entertainment projects. Jacobson's dedication to her craft reflected her passion for acting and the arts.