December 27

Born in 1879 in England, Sydney Greenstreet began his career in the theater before transitioning to film at the age of 62. He quickly became a sought-after character actor in Hollywood, known for his imposing stature and distinctive voice. Greenstreet delivered memorable performances as Kasper Gutman in The Maltese Falcon (1941) and Signor Ferrari in Casablanca (1942). His collaboration with director John Huston resulted in some of the era’s most enduring screen roles. Despite a relatively brief film career, Greenstreet left an indelible mark on 1940s cinema before passing away in 1954.

Born in 1888 in Tauperlitz, Germany, von Harbou began her career as an actress before turning to writing and directing. She collaborated with director Fritz Lang—her husband until 1933—on iconic films such as Metropolis and M. As a screenwriter, she penned scripts that explored themes of technology, crime, and social upheaval in Weimar-era Germany. Von Harbou also directed silent films, showcasing her versatility behind the camera. Her career continued into the Nazi period, after which her later work and political associations affected her postwar reputation. Von Harbou died in 1954, but her contributions remain integral to early 20th-century cinema.

Marlene Dietrich was born in 1901 in Berlin, Germany. Discovered by director Josef von Sternberg, she rose to fame starring in 'The Blue Angel' (1930). She moved to Hollywood, where she became an icon of glamour and sophistication, with memorable performances in films like 'Morocco' and 'Shanghai Express'. Dietrich was an outspoken opponent of the Nazi regime and became a U.S. citizen in 1937. During World War II, she entertained Allied troops and supported war relief efforts. After the war, she enjoyed a successful stage career and recorded popular albums. Dietrich's enduring legacy lies in her distinct style, powerful presence, and pioneering celebrity activism. She died in 1992 in Paris.

Irene Handl was born in 1901 in London, England. She began acting in the late 1940s after a career as a civil servant. Handl appeared in over 200 film and television productions, becoming a familiar face in British comedies. Her memorable roles include appearances in 'Hell Drivers', 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang', and 'Casino Royale'. Beyond the screen, she was a popular radio panellist on shows like 'Just a Minute'. Handl also wrote an autobiography, 'Twenty-Five Years a Woman', published in 1978. Her warm humor and distinctive persona made her a beloved figure. She passed away in 1987, leaving a rich legacy of character performances.

Cliff Arquette was born in 1905 in Missouri, USA. He began his career in vaudeville and radio before transitioning to television. Arquette created the folk storyteller persona Charley Weaver, which became a hit on shows like 'You Bet Your Life' and 'Hollywood Squares'. His affectionate humor and down-to-earth style endeared him to audiences. Arquette also appeared in films and released comedic albums. He was the patriarch of a show-business family, with descendants including actor David Arquette. Cliff Arquette's legacy lives on through his pioneering work in early television comedy. He passed away in 1974.

Oscar Levant was born in 1906 in Philadelphia, USA, and recognized early as a piano prodigy. He became renowned for his performances of George Gershwin's works and premiered Gershwin's Piano Concerto in F. Levant appeared in films such as 'An American in Paris' and portrayed Gershwin in 'Rhapsody in Blue'. He hosted radio and television programs where his candid humor and self-deprecating remarks made him a cult figure. Levant composed concert pieces and cabaret songs, publishing books like 'The Unimportance of Being Oscar'. Despite struggles with mental health, his influence on popular culture endures. He died in 1972, remembered as a brilliant musician and witty raconteur.

Anna Russell (1911–2006) was a singer and comedian celebrated for her witty monologues on classical music. Touring internationally, she entertained audiences with performances like 'How to Write Your Own Gilbert and Sullivan Opera', blending musical talent with humor. Russell's unique approach left a lasting impact on musical comedy.

Cathy Lewis was a prominent American actress whose career spanned radio, film, and television. She gained fame for her work on popular radio shows in the 1940s, bringing memorable characters to life with her dynamic voice. Transitioning to television, she appeared in numerous sitcoms and dramas, showcasing her versatility as a performer. Her natural comedic talent and expressive performances endeared her to audiences nationwide. She influenced future generations of voice actors with her pioneering work in early broadcast entertainment. Her legacy endures as a testament to the golden age of American radio and early television.

Michel Piccoli broke through in Luis Buñuel's 'Belle de Jour' and became a leading face of French cinema. He collaborated with directors such as Jean-Luc Godard, Roberto Rossellini, and Jacques Rivette. Known for his charisma and versatility, he appeared in over 200 films across Europe. Piccoli also explored directing and producing, showcasing his talents behind the camera. In 2015, he received the Honorary Golden Palm at the Cannes Film Festival for his lifetime achievements. His enduring career made him a beloved icon of European art cinema.

Jerome Courtland began his acting career in Hollywood films in the 1940s. He appeared in musicals and dramas for major studios including Walt Disney. In the 1960s, he transitioned to directing and producing for television. He contributed to popular series and TV movies throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Courtland later took on executive roles at Disney, overseeing television programming. His versatile career spanned over six decades in film and television.

John Amos was an American actor whose career spanned over six decades across film, television and theater.\nHe gained fame as James Evans Sr. on the groundbreaking sitcom 'Good Times' and as Meat on 'Roots.'\nAmos's film roles include performances in 'Coming to America,' 'Die Hard 2' and 'The Five Heartbeats.'\nBeyond acting, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps and advocated for positive portrayals of African Americans.\nHe authored memoirs reflecting on his life and career, offering insight into Hollywood's evolution.\nAmos passed away in 2024, leaving a lasting impact on American entertainment.

Gérard Depardieu has appeared in over 200 films since his debut in the 1970s, earning international acclaim for performances in classsic works like Cyrano de Bergerac and The Last Metro. He won the César Award for Best Actor twice and received an Academy Award nomination. Depardieu’s versatile roles span Shakespearean adaptations, historical dramas, and modern comedies. Aside from acting, he has produced films and been involved in theater productions. A controversial figure at times, he holds citizenship in France, Russia, and Belgium. His contributions to cinema have made him one of the most recognized European actors of his generation.