December 28

Florence Lawrence was born in 1886 in Hamilton, Ontario. She began her acting career on stage before moving to motion pictures with the Biograph Company. Lawrence became one of the earliest recognizable film stars, known to audiences as 'The Biograph Girl'. In 1910, she starred in breakthrough roles that led to her becoming the first actor to receive a screen credit. Her career spanned over 200 films, setting standards for early cinema. She died in 1938, and her pioneering contributions to film history are still acknowledged.

Born Jack Carlton Moore in 1914 in Chicago, he began his career in films in the 1930s before transitioning to television. Moore achieved nationwide fame as the Lone Ranger in the series that aired from 1949 to 1957. His portrayal of the silver-masked hero became an enduring icon of American pop culture. After the series ended, he continued to appear as the Lone Ranger at public events and charity functions. Despite legal battles over the rights to his character’s mask, he remained forever linked to the role. Moore passed away on December 28, 1999, remembered as the definitive Lone Ranger.

Jerry Orbach was born in 1935 in the Bronx, New York, and began his career Off-Broadway. He starred in Broadway hits such as The Fantasticks and won a Tony Award for Billy Flynn in Chicago in 1975. Orbach appeared in films including Dirty Dancing (1987), showcasing his versatility. He gained widespread fame as Detective Lennie Briscoe on Law & Order from 1992 to 2004. In addition to acting, he released jazz and cabaret albums, highlighting his singing talent. He died on December 28, 2004, leaving an indelible mark on stage and screen.

Born in Havana in 1913, she studied at the National Conservatory of Music and developed a versatile soprano voice. She rose to fame on Cuban radio in the 1940s, performing zarzuela, opera, and popular songs. Borja appeared in several Cuban films and stage productions, becoming a household name. She recorded extensively for RCA Victor and toured internationally, bringing Cuban musical theatre to global audiences. After retiring from the stage, she settled in Miami where she taught voice and mentored young singers. She is remembered as a leading figure in Cuban musical culture whose legacy continues to inspire performers.

Born Joseph Schlafman in Massachusetts in 1924, he graduated from the Carnegie Institute of Technology and began a career in theatre. Ruskin appeared in over a hundred television episodes, notably in Star Trek and Babylon 5, showcasing his range in science fiction roles. His film credits include The Magnificent Seven and Marathon Man, where he delivered memorable supporting performances. A co-founder of the Actors Company Theatre in Los Angeles, he also produced stage productions and mentored emerging talent. His dedication to his craft and adaptability earned him respect across the entertainment industry. He continued working in film and television until his death at age 89 in 2013.

Rose to fame with her portrayal of Kathy Selden in the 1952 musical Singin' in the Rain. Won a Golden Globe for her performance in The Unsinkable Molly Brown (1964). Starred in over 50 films and numerous television shows, showcasing her versatility across genres. Enjoyed success on Broadway, earning Tony nominations for her stage work. Produced and headlined her own variety series, demonstrating her talents as a performer and producer. Mother to actress Carrie Fisher, she endured personal tragedies with public grace. Awarded a Golden Globe Cecil B. DeMille Award for lifetime achievement in 2015. Died in 2016 at age 84, leaving an enduring legacy in American entertainment.

Born Rose Marie Mazzetta in New York City in 1923, she began performing as a child vaudeville star. Gained widespread fame as Sally Rogers on 'The Dick Van Dyke Show' (1961–1966), earning Emmy nominations. Became one of the highest-paid female stars on television during the 1950s with appearances on radio and TV. Broke gender barriers as the first female panelist on the game show 'Hollywood Squares' for over 15 years. Showcased her singing and comedic talents in nightclub tours and Broadway performances. Authored memoirs recounting her experiences in early show business and Hollywood's golden era. Continued acting in film, television, and voice work well into her nineties. Died in 2017 at age 94, remembered for her pioneering contributions to comedy and television.