December 18

Born on December 18, 1887, in Champaran, Bihar, Bhikhari Thakur emerged as a pioneering figure of Bhojpuri folk theatre. He founded the Bidesia theatre troupe in the 1920s, using songs, dance, and drama to engage rural audiences. Often called the "Shakespeare of Bhojpuri", Thakur wrote and staged over fifty plays that addressed social issues like caste injustice, poverty, and the plight of women. His unique blend of humor, music, and poignant storytelling brought folk traditions to life on stage. Thakur's work not only entertained but also sparked dialogue and reform, earning him enduring respect in his community. He continued to perform and write until his death in 1971, leaving a rich legacy in North Indian cultural history.

Born on December 18, 1888, in London, Gladys Cooper began her career in Edwardian musical comedy and quickly rose to fame on the West End stage. She successfully transitioned to silent films in the 1910s and later to talkies, earning Academy Award nominations for her roles in "The Song of Bernadette" and "My Fair Lady". Cooper was known for her poise, command of both dramatic and comedic roles, and her rich singing voice. Her stage work included memorable performances in Shakespearean plays and popular musicals. In 1967, she was appointed Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire for her services to drama. Cooper continued to act on stage and screen into her eighties, leaving an enduring mark on British theatre and film.

Born in Richmond, Surrey, Celia Johnson began her acting career on the stage.\nShe made her film debut in 1936 and gained widespread acclaim for her performance in Brief Encounter (1945).\nJohnson was celebrated for her nuanced portrayal of complex emotional characters.\nShe received a BAFTA nomination and solidified her status as one of Britain's leading actresses.\nBeyond film, she appeared in numerous radio and stage productions throughout her career.\nJohnson's enduring legacy is marked by her grace, depth, and memorable performances until her retirement in the 1960s.

Born in Middletown, Connecticut, Jules Dassin began his career on Broadway as an actor and director.\nHe moved into film in the 1940s, directing critically acclaimed noir dramas such as The Naked City (1948).\nBlacklisted during the McCarthy era, Dassin relocated to Europe and eventually settled in Greece.\nHis landmark heist film Rififi (1955) is celebrated for its innovative direction and suspense.\nHe received multiple awards, including the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival.\nDassin also worked in theater and television, showcasing his versatility across mediums.\nHis influence on post-war cinema endures through his bold storytelling and technical mastery.

Betty Grable rose to stardom in the 1930s as a triple-threat performer in Hollywood musicals. She became the number one pin-up girl for U.S. servicemen during World War II, boosting morale on the home front. A leading lady at 20th Century Fox, her notable films include Down Argentine Way (1940) and How to Marry a Millionaire (1953). Grable was renowned for her dazzling legs and energetic dance routines alongside stars like Jackie Coogan and Victor Mature. Her legacy endures in American pop culture as an emblematic symbol of 1940s glamour.

Born in February 1917, Ossie Davis began his career on Broadway before transitioning to film and television roles in classics such as Battle Cry (1955) and Do the Right Thing (1989). Alongside his wife Ruby Dee, he co-founded the Negro Ensemble Company to promote African American talent. Davis was a prominent speaker and march participant during the Civil Rights Movement, forging a partnership with Martin Luther King Jr. He directed films like Cotton Comes to Harlem (1970) and lectured widely on racial equality. His body of work spans over six decades, leaving an indelible mark on American culture.

Born in Chicago, Thompson began his broadcasting career in the early days of television. He hosted a variety of shows, including children's programs, talk shows, and local news segments, becoming a familiar face to audiences. His gentle humor and approachable style earned him a loyal following over four decades on air. Thompson also produced and wrote for several series, mentoring young talent behind the scenes. His contributions helped shape regional television programming and set standards for engaging community-focused content.

Born in South Gate, California, Smith broke into television with guest roles before landing the lead in '77 Sunset Strip' in 1958. His portrayal of Jeff Spencer made him a household name. In the 1960s, he transitioned behind the camera, producing and writing for both film and TV projects. He married entertainer Ann-Margret in 1967, and together they became one of Hollywood’s enduring couples. Despite health challenges later in life, Smith remained active in the industry, demonstrating versatility and resilience across multiple entertainment roles.

Born in 1935 in Much Wenlock, Shropshire, Rosemary Leach trained at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. She garnered critical praise for her work with the Royal Shakespeare Company in productions such as 'A Midsummer Night’s Dream'. Leach won a BAFTA TV Award for her role in the serial 'The Jewel in the Crown' and earned Olivier Award nominations. Her film credits include 'The Plague Dogs', 'Thérèse Raquin', and 'That’ll Be the Day'. On television, she appeared in series such as 'Fingersmith' and 'Soldier, Soldier'. Leach’s career spanned over five decades, leaving a legacy of powerful and nuanced performances.

Ray Liotta (December 18, 1954 – May 26, 2022) was an American actor renowned for his portrayal of gangster Henry Hill in Martin Scorsese's classic film Goodfellas. Born in Newark, New Jersey, he began his career with television appearances, including a breakthrough role on the soap opera Another World. Liotta's work spanned genres, with memorable performances in films such as Something Wild, Field of Dreams, and Shades of Blue. He also lent his voice to the video game Grand Theft Auto: Vice City as Tommy Vercetti, showcasing his versatility across media. Over a four-decade career, Liotta collaborated with acclaimed directors and brought intensity to every character he played, earning him a lasting place in cinematic history. He passed away in 2022, leaving behind a legacy of compelling and nuanced performances.

Ron 'Tater Salad' White (born December 18, 1956) is an American stand-up comedian and actor known for his cigar-chomping, whisky-drinking onstage persona. He gained fame as one of the original members of the Blue Collar Comedy Tour, performing alongside Jeff Foxworthy and Larry the Cable Guy. White's observational humor and signature anecdotes earned his album 'Drunk in Public' a Grammy nomination for Best Comedy Album. He has released multiple successful comedy specials and toured internationally, building a loyal fan base with his storytelling style. In addition to stand-up, White has appeared in film and television roles, showcasing his versatility as a performer. His blend of self-deprecation and sharp wit has made him a prominent figure in modern American comedy.

Angie Stone (born December 18, 1961) is an American singer, songwriter, and actress celebrated for her powerful, soulful voice. She began her career in the early 1980s with the hip-hop trio The Sequence before finding solo success in neo soul. Stone released several acclaimed albums, including 'Black Diamond' and 'Mahogany Soul', featuring R&B hits like 'Brotha' and 'Wish I Didn't Miss You'. Her artistic versatility has led to collaborations with artists across genres and roles in film and television. Stone has received multiple Grammy Award nominations and is regarded as a pioneer in the neo soul movement. She continues to write, record, and perform, inspiring a new generation of soul and R&B artists.