December 26

Born in London in 1874, Mary Ann Bevan trained and worked as a nurse. In the 1920s, she developed acromegaly, a hormonal disorder causing facial and bone enlargement. Facing financial hardship, she and her husband turned to sideshow performances. Promoted as 'the ugliest woman in the world', she appeared in carnivals and fairs across Britain and the United States. Bevan's experience highlights both the challenges of disability and the era's obsession with 'freak shows.' Though billed for her appearance, she continued to display dignity and resilience. She died in 1933, remembered as a figure of early 20th-century popular culture.

Jack Benny began his career as a vaudeville violinist before rising to fame with The Jack Benny Program on radio and later television. His comedic persona of a miserly, self-deprecating character endeared him to audiences for over five decades. Benny was known for impeccable timing, recurring gags, and interactions with his cast, including Rochester and Mary Livingstone. He appeared in films such as To Be or Not to Be and The Horn Blows at Midnight, showcasing his range as both a comedian and actor. Benny's influence on comedy and broadcasting paved the way for future generations of performers.

Born in 1936 in Andhra Pradesh, Savitri became one of South Indian cinema’s most beloved figures. She debuted as a child artist and rose to prominence with her emotive performances in Telugu and Tamil films such as “Missamma” and “Devadasu.” Beyond acting, she showcased her talents as a playback singer and dancer, and later ventured into directing and producing. Known affectionately as "Mahanati," she inspired generations with her depth and range. Despite personal struggles, her cinematic legacy endures through her memorable roles. She passed away in 1981.

Born in 1902 in Lewisham, England, Elsa Lanchester began her career on the London stage before moving to Hollywood. Married to actor Charles Laughton, she earned acclaim for her versatile performances in films such as “Bride of Frankenstein” (1935) and “The Private Life of Henry VIII.” She received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role in “Witness for the Prosecution” (1957). Lanchester also appeared in Disney’s “Mary Poppins” and worked extensively in theater and television. Her unique presence and talent made her a beloved figure in film history. She died in 1986.

Sylva Koscina rose to fame with roles in Italian comedies, dramas, and international co-productions. Her elegant beauty and expressive acting made her a favorite of directors and audiences alike. She appeared alongside major stars of the era and brought depth to both leading and supporting roles. Koscina's career spanned theater, film, and television, showcasing her versatility as a performer. Known for her poise and charisma, she became an icon of mid-century European cinema. Her work continues to be appreciated by film enthusiasts around the world.

Jason Robards was a prolific actor whose career spanned Broadway, Hollywood, and television. He won consecutive Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actor in the mid-1970s for his roles in All the President's Men and Julia. He was celebrated for his distinctive voice and nuanced portrayals of real and fictional characters. Robards began his career on Broadway, earning acclaim in productions of Eugene O'Neill's plays. He appeared in acclaimed films directed by John Schlesinger, Woody Allen, and Robert Altman. His portrayals of figures such as Dashiell Hammett and Admiral William Halsey displayed his versatility. Robards' enduring legacy is reflected in the generations of actors he influenced.

Nigel Hawthorne gained fame portraying the witty and manipulative Sir Humphrey Appleby in the political sitcoms 'Yes Minister' and 'Yes, Prime Minister'. His performance earned him numerous awards, including a BAFTA for Best Comedy Performance. Hawthorne also delivered a powerful dramatic turn in the film The Madness of King George, earning an Academy Award nomination. He began his career on the British stage, performing with the Royal Shakespeare Company. Hawthorne's stage work included acclaimed productions of Shakespeare and contemporary playwrights. His distinctive voice and impeccable timing made him a beloved figure on both screen and stage. Hawthorne's contributions to acting were recognized with prestigious honors, reflecting his impact on the performing arts.

Born in Brooklyn in 1948, Vincent Schiavelli trained at Carnegie Mellon University before embarking on a prolific acting career. He appeared in over 100 films and television shows, with memorable performances in "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest," "Ghost," and the James Bond film "Tomorrow Never Dies." Known for his tall, slender frame and unique facial features, he brought depth and humanity to every role. Schiavelli was also a passionate advocate for his Sicilian heritage and authored a Sicilian cookbook. His versatility and warm presence endeared him to audiences until his passing in 2005.

Born in Mexico City in 1940 into a legendary acting family, Pedro Armendáriz Jr. carved out his own cinematic legacy. He delivered memorable roles in international films and Hollywood productions, showcasing versatility and depth. Armendáriz Jr. collaborated with acclaimed directors such as John Huston and Sergio Leone, enhancing his global appeal. His work as a producer helped bring Latin American talent to the forefront of cinema. Throughout his career, he appeared in over 100 film and television projects, leaving a lasting impact on the industry.

Born in Budapest in 1912, Marta Eggerth began her stage career as a child prodigy. She achieved fame in 1930s Europe, starring in operettas and musicals that showcased her dramatic flair and vocal talent. Eggerth emigrated to the United States in the late 1930s, succeeding on Broadway and in Hollywood films. Throughout her career, she recorded extensively and performed at prestigious venues worldwide. She continued to grace stages into her 90s, celebrated for the elegance and warmth of her performances. Her longevity and artistic versatility made her an enduring icon of 20th-century musical theatre.

Born in Los Angeles, California in 1962, Harris started performing stand-up comedy in local clubs. He gained fame for his voice roles in films like 'The Nutty Professor' and 'Friday'. On television, he appeared in series such as 'Martin', 'Everybody Hates Chris', and 'The Jamie Foxx Show'. Harris released comedy albums showcasing his unique characters and rapid-fire delivery. He collaborated with hip-hop artists and appeared in music videos for Snoop Dogg and Tupac Shakur. His blend of sharp humor and memorable characters made him a beloved figure until his death in 2016.

Born in Springfield, Massachusetts in 1922, Irving enjoyed a Broadway career spanning over sixty years. He won a Tony Award in 1973 for his performance in the revival of 'Irene'. Irving provided the voice of the Heat Miser in the classic animated special 'The Year Without a Santa Claus'. He appeared in numerous films, television series, and voice-over projects throughout his career. His baritone vocals and character acting made him a cherished figure in American theater and entertainment. He continued performing well into his 90s, leaving an enduring legacy before his passing in 2016.