December 29

Aku Korhonen starred in over 70 films and countless stage productions, earning acclaim for his comedic timing and emotional depth. A central figure in Finnish cinema from the 1920s to the 1950s, he also directed and wrote plays. His portrayals often reflected Finnish identity and social issues of the era. Korhonen received multiple national awards for his contributions to the arts and left a lasting legacy upon his passing in 1960.

Jo Van Fleet was an American actress celebrated for her powerful supporting roles on stage and screen. After a distinguished Broadway career, she made her film debut in the 1950s and quickly gained acclaim. Her portrayal of Cathy Ames in 'East of Eden' earned her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in 1955. She continued to appear in notable films and television productions throughout the 1950s and 1960s. Van Fleet was admired for her intense performances and distinctive presence. Her career spanned over four decades until her retirement in the late 1970s.

Viveca Lindfors was a Swedish-born actress who made a mark in Hollywood films and American theater. She earned acclaim for her roles in film noir classics such as 'Night Unto Night' and 'The Iron Curtain'. Beyond acting, Lindfors was an accomplished singer and published poet, showcasing her artistic range. She taught acting at Yale School of Drama, influencing a generation of performers. Her career spanned over five decades, from European cinema to Broadway and television. Lindfors's depth and intensity in performance earned her a reputation as a dynamic talent.

Born in 1923 as Nedenia Marjorie Hutton, Dina Merrill was the heiress to the Post cereal fortune and adopted her stage name for a successful acting career. She appeared opposite Katherine Hepburn in Desk Set (1957) and in films like Operation Petticoat (1959) and The Sundowners (1960). Merrill became a popular game show panelist and later co-founded Pavilion Communications with her husband, Ted Hartley, acquiring several television stations. A dedicated philanthropist, she supported the arts and medical research through the Barbara Sinatra Children’s Center. Her dynamic career bridged entertainment, business, and charitable work until her death in 2017.

Born in Oldham, Lancashire in 1928, Bernard Cribbins began his career in radio comedy before transitioning to television and film. He appeared in several Carry On films and enjoyed chart success with novelty singles such as The Hole in the Ground. Cribbins also became beloved as the narrator of many children’s stories and series, most famously The Wombles. He portrayed Wilfred Mott in Doctor Who, earning a new generation of fans with his warm performance. Awarded an OBE for his services to drama, he remained active in entertainment until his death in 2022.

Born in Omaha, Nebraska in 1932, Inga Swenson trained in opera and made her Broadway debut in musicals such as 110 in the Shade. She earned two Tony Award nominations before transitioning to television, starring as Gretchen Kraus on Benson from 1979 to 1986. Swenson’s rich singing voice and comedic timing made her a standout performer in both stage and screen productions. Her career spanned decades, including roles on soap operas like Ryan’s Hope and guest appearances on popular series. She retired from acting in the late 1990s and passed away in 2023, fondly remembered for her versatility and charm.

Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota in 1934, Ed Flanders began his acting career on stage before transitioning to film and television. He earned three Emmy Awards for his portrayal of Dr. Donald Westphall on the medical drama St. Elsewhere, which aired from 1982 to 1988. Flanders also appeared in films such as Harold and Maude and had recurring roles on series like The F.B.I. Known for his dignified presence and nuanced performances, he became a respected figure in the acting community. He died in 1995, leaving behind a legacy of memorable characters and award-winning work.

Born in Brooklyn, New York in 1936, Mary Tyler Moore began her career starring as Laura Petrie on The Dick Van Dyke Show, winning an Emmy Award. She later became a cultural icon playing Mary Richards on The Mary Tyler Moore Show, which earned her multiple Emmy nominations and wins. Moore co-founded MTM Enterprises, producing acclaimed programs such as Hill Street Blues and St. Elsewhere. An advocate for diabetes awareness and animal rights, she used her fame to support charitable causes. She passed away in 2017, remembered as a trailblazer for women in television and a beloved entertainer.

Barbara Steele gained fame as the 'Queen of Horror' through her unforgettable performances in classic Gothic films like Black Sunday (1960) and The Pit and the Pendulum (1961). Her pale complexion, striking eyes, and intense screen presence made her a defining figure of the genre. Over the decades, she has worked in theater, television, and independent cinema, demonstrating impressive versatility beyond horror. Steele's contributions have influenced generations of filmmakers and actors, and she continues to be celebrated as a cult icon by horror enthusiasts worldwide.

Jon Voight has delivered powerful performances in landmark films such as Midnight Cowboy (for which he won the Academy Award for Best Actor), Deliverance, and Coming Home. His career spans over five decades, including notable roles in Heat, Mission: Impossible, and the television series Ray Donovan. Renowned for his ability to portray complex and often challenging characters, Voight has earned critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. He has also produced several film projects and engaged in philanthropic and political efforts, demonstrating his commitment both on and off screen.

Dinah Christie began her career as a child performer in the UK before moving to Canada and making a name for herself in television variety shows and musicals. Her warm vocal tone and charismatic stage presence earned her roles in theater productions and guest appearances on national broadcasts. Christie has also recorded albums showcasing her versatility across genres. Later, she transitioned into directing and producing theatrical works, mentoring young performers and contributing to the Canadian arts community. Her enduring career reflects a passion for performance and storytelling.

Rajesh Khanna captivated Indian audiences in the late 1960s and early 1970s with blockbuster hits like Aradhana and Anand, setting records for solo lead film releases. His charismatic screen presence and emotive performances revolutionized the Hindi film industry, earning him four Filmfare Awards. Khanna later entered politics, serving as a Member of Parliament for the Indian National Congress from 1992 to 1996. He remained a beloved cultural icon until his passing in 2012, leaving a legacy that continues to influence Bollywood cinema.