December 17

Born in 1903 in Missouri, Eddie Acuff began his career in vaudeville and stock theater before transitioning to Hollywood films. He appeared in over 120 movies, often cast as the fast-talking sidekick or comedic relief. Acuff's notable screen roles include appearances in Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, Brother Rat, and The Roaring Twenties. He was beloved for his affable on-screen persona and natural comedic timing. Beyond film, Acuff entertained troops during World War II through USO tours. His versatility extended to radio and early television performances. Acuff continued acting until his sudden death from a heart attack in 1956 at the age of 53. His body of work remains a testament to his enduring screen presence.

Born in 1892 in New Jersey, Thomas Mitchell began his career on the Broadway stage before transitioning to film in the 1920s. He won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in Stagecoach (1939), becoming the first male actor to receive that honor. Mitchell is remembered for iconic roles such as Gerald O'Hara in Gone with the Wind and Uncle Billy in It's a Wonderful Life. Known for his versatility, he excelled in dramas, comedies, and westerns alike. Over his career, he appeared in more than 150 films and several television productions. Mitchell also co-wrote screenplays and taught acting in his later years. He passed away in 1962 at the age of 70, leaving an indelible mark on American cinema.

Linda Wong (1951–1987) was a prominent American adult film actress. She rose to fame in the late 1970s and early 1980s, featuring in numerous adult productions. Wong’s on-screen charisma and versatility made her a fan favorite. She worked with leading adult film directors of the era, shaping the industry’s early years. Her performances broke new ground in storytelling and film production values. Wong’s influence is remembered by enthusiasts of classic adult cinema.

Dana Andrews (1909–1992) was an American actor celebrated for his versatile film performances. He starred in iconic 1940s films such as Laura and The Best Years of Our Lives. Andrews portrayed complex characters, ranging from hard-boiled detectives to returning war veterans. His brooding presence and moral intensity made him a favorite of directors like Otto Preminger. He received critical acclaim and a Golden Globe nomination for his dramatic roles. Andrews later transitioned to television and stage, leaving a lasting mark on American entertainment.

Rex Allen (1920–1999) was an American singer-songwriter and actor nicknamed the Arizona Cowboy. He starred in numerous Western films and released popular country and folk songs. Allen’s smooth baritone voice made him a sought-after narrator for Disney nature documentaries. He embodied the archetype of the singing cowboy during Hollywood’s Golden Age. Throughout his career, he recorded dozens of albums and toured extensively on the rodeo circuit. Allen’s legacy is preserved in the Western genre and family-friendly storytelling.

Marc Favreau was a Canadian actor, comedian, and poet famous for his clown persona 'Sol' on the children’s series Passe-Partout. Born in Montreal, he trained in classical theatre before developing his improvisational style. Through poetic monologues and playful wordplay, Favreau’s character entertained and educated audiences across Canada. He toured extensively, performing in theaters and on television throughout Europe and Canada. Favreau recorded several albums featuring his poetic sketches and released collections of poetry. His inventive use of language and humor influenced a generation of French-Canadian performers. Favreau continued to captivate audiences until his death in 2005, leaving a legacy of laughter and artful expression.

Jennifer Jones was a prominent American actress whose career spanned stage, film, and television. She won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of Bernadette Soubirous in The Song of Bernadette (1943). Jones delivered memorable performances in films such as Love Letters, Duel in the Sun, and Love Is a Many-Splendored Thing. She earned additional Oscar nominations for Since You Went Away and Carrie. Beyond her film career, she remained active in theater and was celebrated for her emotional depth and elegance.

Alaina Reed Hall was an American actress celebrated for her groundbreaking television work. She portrayed Olivia on Sesame Street from 1976 to 1981, becoming a beloved character among children. Hall then starred as Mary Jenkins on the sitcom 227 from 1985 to 1990, earning acclaim for her comedic talent. She appeared in various guest roles on shows like Touched by an Angel. Beyond acting, Hall advocated for arts education and community programs. Her pioneering presence contributed to greater representation on American television.

Born in 1925, Richard Heffner earned a Ph.D. in history and became a professor at Rutgers University. In 1956, he launched the television series "The Open Mind," interviewing thinkers, authors, and policymakers in in-depth dialogues about society, politics, and culture. Over more than six decades, the show became one of the longest-running public affairs programs in U.S. television history. Heffner authored several books on American history and public affairs, and was celebrated for his intellectual curiosity and civility. He passed away in 2013, leaving a legacy of thoughtful discourse and education.

Gordon Edwynn Hunt was an American casting and voice director and actor. Over his five-decade career, he directed voice talent for popular cartoons such as The Smurfs, Disney's Gargoyles, and Johnny Bravo. He also worked in theater and television, both behind the scenes and as a voice actor. A member of the Directors Guild of America, he received several Daytime Emmy nominations. He was the father of Oscar-winning actress Helen Hunt. His contributions shaped the voice acting industry and influenced generations of performers.

Jeremy Davies Bulloch was an English film and television actor whose career spanned over five decades. He gained worldwide fame for his portrayal of the bounty hunter Boba Fett in The Empire Strikes Back (1980) and Return of the Jedi (1983). A member of the Bulloch acting family, he appeared in British TV series such as Doctor Who, Robin Hood, and The Adventures of Black Beauty. He also toured in stage productions across the UK. A fixture at Star Wars conventions, he embraced his fan following until his passing. He remains a cult icon for generations of science fiction enthusiasts.

Born Ronald James Gibbs, Ronaldo Valdez was a prolific Filipino actor and director. He began his career in the 1970s, appearing in films like Burlesk Queen and T-Bird at Ako. On television, he starred in numerous soap operas and dramas, earning acclaim for his powerful character portrayals. A respected theater actor, he also directed stage productions. Father to actors Mark and Megan Young, he was regarded as one of Philippine entertainment's most enduring figures. Honored with lifetime achievement awards, his work influenced generations of Filipino performers.