December 12

Born in 1883 in Denver, Colorado, Fairbanks began his career on stage before transitioning to silent films. He co-founded United Artists in 1919 with Charlie Chaplin, Mary Pickford, and D.W. Griffith to gain creative control over films. Fairbanks became famous for his swashbuckling roles in 'The Mark of Zorro,' 'The Thief of Bagdad,' and 'Robin Hood.' His athletic performances and charm earned him the title 'The King of Hollywood.' He served as the first president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Fairbanks helped shape the modern film industry through innovations in production and distribution. He died in 1939, leaving a lasting legacy as a pioneering film legend.

Tallulah Bankhead (1902–1968) was one of Hollywood's most charismatic and outspoken actresses. Born in Huntsville, Alabama, she achieved fame on Broadway before transitioning to film. She starred in Alfred Hitchcock's Lifeboat and captivated audiences with her dynamic radio performances. Renowned for her rapid-fire wit, sultry voice, and flamboyant style, she became a cultural icon. Bankhead's fearless approach to life challenged social norms and left a lasting impact on entertainment.

Anne Baxter (1923–1985) won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in The Razor's Edge. Born into a theatrical family, she made her Broadway debut as a teenager before transitioning to Hollywood. Baxter delivered memorable performances in films such as All About Eve and The Ten Commandments. Her ability to inhabit complex characters earned her acclaim from critics and audiences alike. Beyond film, she appeared in television dramas and continued to be a sought-after stage actress until her death.

Robert Newmyer (1956–2005) was an American film producer and occasional actor whose career spanned both television and feature films. He produced acclaimed TV movies such as Live from Baghdad and worked on feature projects including The Story of Us. Newmyer also made select on-screen appearances, showcasing his versatility in front of the camera. Known for his collaborative spirit and production expertise, he adeptly managed creative and logistical aspects of filmmaking. His contributions helped bring compelling stories to audiences across networks and theaters. Though his life was cut short at 49, his work continues to be celebrated by peers and film enthusiasts.

Annette Stroyberg (1936–2005) was a Danish actress whose screen career flourished in European cinema during the late 1950s and early 1960s. She gained recognition for roles in French productions, collaborating with directors across France and Italy. Stroyberg's elegant presence and nuanced performances embodied the youthful glamour of post-war cinema. Off-screen, she was part of Paris's vibrant cultural scene and was briefly married to filmmaker Roger Vadim. Later in life, she withdrew from acting to focus on painting and her family. Her limited yet impactful filmography remains celebrated by fans of mid-century European film.

Peter Boyle had a distinguished career spanning over four decades in both television and film. He gained widespread fame for his comedic timing in Mel Brooks's 'Young Frankenstein'. Boyle earned critical acclaim and an Emmy Award for his portrayal of Frank Barone on 'Everybody Loves Raymond'. His versatility allowed him to tackle dramatic roles in films like 'Joe' and 'Taxi Driver'. He was also a respected stage actor early in his career. Known for his deep voice and commanding presence, Boyle appeared in notable projects including 'The X-Files'. He remained active in screen roles until his passing, leaving behind a legacy of memorable characters. His work continues to be celebrated by fans of comedy and drama alike.

Van Johnson signed with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer in 1941 and quickly rose to fame with his boy-next-door charm and versatility. He starred in wartime musicals like 'Thousands Cheer' and dramas such as 'The Caine Mutiny.' Johnson's performance in 'A Guy Named Joe' showcased his ability to blend warmth and depth, making him a favorite among audiences. He served in the United States Navy during World War II, which briefly interrupted his acting career. Returning to Hollywood, he continued to appear in films and later transitioned to television roles. Johnson received critical praise for his comedic timing in 'The Miniver Story' and his dramatic work in 'Threat.' He remained a symbol of classic Hollywood charm until his retirement. His contributions to film and television earned him a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Born August 10, 1931 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Laughlin gained fame as the creator and star of the cult classic film Billy Jack, which he directed and wrote. The film's success launched several sequels and solidified his reputation as an independent filmmaker. He championed Native American rights and antiwar activism through his work and public appearances. As an author and educator, he lectured on film production and social issues, often clashing with Hollywood studios over creative control. Laughlin's legacy endures through his groundbreaking approach to independent cinema and his dedication to social causes.

Born December 20, 1917 in Joliet, Illinois. Totter signed with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer in the early 1940s and quickly became a staple of film noir. Her portrayals of complex, often dangerous women in films like Lady in the Lake (1947) and The Unsuspected (1947) earned critical acclaim. She transitioned successfully to television in the 1950s, appearing on popular series such as Medical Center and General Electric Theater. Known for her cool demeanor and sharp intelligence, Totter's career spanned three decades before she retired in 1973. Her performances continue to influence portrayals of strong, enigmatic female characters in cinema and television.

Daniel Louis Aiello Jr. was an American actor and producer whose career spanned theater, film, and television. He gained widespread recognition for his role as Sal in Spike Lee's "Do the Right Thing" (1989), earning an Academy Award nomination. Aiello appeared in over 100 films, including "Moonstruck", "The Godfather Part II", and "The Purple Rose of Cairo". His robust screen presence and ability to imbue supporting characters with depth made him a favorite among directors. Off screen, he was known for his work in the theater and for mentoring young actors until his death in 2019.

Ann Reinking was an acclaimed American performer, dancer, and choreographer whose career spanned Broadway, film, and television. She won a Tony Award for Best Choreography for the revival of "Chicago" in 1996, a production that revitalized the classic musical. Reinking began her career under the mentorship of Bob Fosse and starred in Fosse's musicals such as "Chicago" and "Dancin'". Her elegant, jazz-inflected dance style and creative vision influenced a generation of dancers. In addition to her stage work, she appeared in films like "All That Jazz" (1979). Reinking continued to teach and choreograph until her death in 2020, leaving a profound impact on American musical theater.

Vicente Fernández Gómez was a Mexican singer, actor, and film producer who became an icon of ranchera music. Over a career spanning more than five decades, he recorded over 100 albums and sold an estimated 50 million records worldwide. Known for his powerful vocals and traditional mariachi arrangements, Fernández popularized songs like "El Rey", "Volver, Volver", and "Por Tu Maldito Amor". He also appeared in over 30 films, portraying charro characters that embodied Mexican cultural identity. Fernández's contributions to music earned him multiple Grammy and Latin Grammy Awards. He retired from performance in 2016 with a historic farewell tour but remained active in the music industry until his death in 2021.