December 09

Laird Cregar (1913–1944) was an American actor renowned for his large stature and commanding screen presence. He began his career on stage before moving to Hollywood in the late 1930s. Cregar earned praise for his performance in the horror film The Lodger (1944) and the film noir I Wake Up Screaming (1941). He frequently portrayed complex villains and supporting characters with depth and nuance. Despite his talent, he struggled with health issues and the pressures of Hollywood's image standards. His untimely death at age 31 cut short a promising career and left a lasting impression on the genre. He is remembered for bringing intensity and gravitas to his roles and influencing future character actors.

William A. Wellman was born in 1896 in Brookline, Massachusetts, and served as a fighter pilot during World War I. After the war, he began his film career as an actor and stuntman before directing. His 1927 film Wings won the first-ever Academy Award for Best Picture. Wellman's career spanned silent films to talkies, directing such classics as A Star Is Born (1937) and The Public Enemy (1931). He was celebrated for his gritty realism and innovative aerial photography. Wellman continued working into the 1950s and died in 1975, leaving a legacy of influential American cinema.

Born Vincenzo Scognamiglio in Naples, Italy, he emigrated to the United States as a child and was raised in New York City. He made his stage debut in the 1940s and won the Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Play in 1972 for The Prisoner of Second Avenue. Over a career spanning five decades, he appeared in films such as Death Wish, Moonstruck, and The Last Tycoon, earning acclaim for his supporting roles. On television, he featured in popular series including All in the Family and Kojak. Gardenia's ability to bring depth to every character made him one of Hollywood's most respected character actors.

Born John Arthur Moore in 1916, he was nicknamed 'The Old Mongoose' for his defensive agility and quick counterpunches. Moore holds the record for career knockouts, with 131 official KO victories over a professional career spanning four decades. He was world light heavyweight champion from 1952 to 1962 and fought for the heavyweight title against contenders like Floyd Patterson. After retiring from boxing, he appeared in films such as The Prizefighter and the Lady and guest-starred on television shows including Run for Your Life. He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame and remains an iconic figure in boxing history.

Born Eugene Klass in 1919, Gene Barry began his acting career on Broadway before transitioning to film and television. He achieved fame as the suave lawman in the western series 'Bat Masterson' from 1958 to 1961. Decades later, he charmed audiences as the enigmatic Count in the fantasy drama 'Beauty and the Beast' (1987–1990). Barry appeared in numerous movies, including the classic 'War of the Worlds'. His career spanned over six decades and earned him a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Born in 1969 in Long Beach, California, Jenni Rivera emerged as a leading voice in banda and Latin pop music. She released multiple platinum-selling albums, including 'La Gran Señora,' and earned numerous Billboard Latin Music Awards. Rivera also produced and starred in the reality TV series 'I Love Jenni,' sharing her life with audiences. An advocate for women's empowerment and domestic violence survivors, she used her platform to inspire fans. Her career was tragically cut short in a plane crash in 2012, but her influence endures through her music and legacy.

Eleanor Parker was born in Cedarville, Ohio, in 1922 and began her career on the stage before transitioning to film. She earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for her role in the 1950 drama 'Caged.' Parker won a Golden Globe for 'Interrupted Melody' and is remembered for her portrayal of the Baroness in 'The Sound of Music.' Over her career, she appeared in more than 60 films and numerous television productions, showcasing her range. After retiring, she pursued painting and engaged in philanthropic work, leaving a diverse creative legacy.

Mary Ann Mobley was born in 1937 in Mississippi and gained national fame when she won Miss America in 1959. She transitioned to acting with appearances on shows such as Perry Mason and Diff'rent Strokes and in films like Skidoo. Her charm and talent made her a familiar face in Hollywood talk shows and variety programs. Mobley also co-hosted the syndicated show PM Magazine and supported charitable causes related to education and health. She was married to actor Gary Collins for over four decades and remained active in community work until her passing in 2014.

Jovit Baldivino (1993–2022) was a Filipino singer and actor who rose to national fame after his powerful rendition of Journey's 'Faithfully' earned him the grand prize on the inaugural season of Pilipinas Got Talent. His soulful performances and hit singles such as 'Paano' and 'Isang Pangarap' resonated with audiences across the Philippines. He ventured into acting, appearing in films and television series, showcasing his versatile talent. Beyond his artistic achievements, Jovit was known for his humble nature and dedication to charitable causes, performing in benefit concerts for underprivileged communities. Despite his untimely passing at age 29, his legacy endures through his music and the inspiration he provided to aspiring artists.