December 29

Alma Tell (1898-1937) appeared in a series of silent films and Broadway productions, earning praise for her expressive acting and emotional depth. She starred in movies such as "See My Lawyer" (1921) and "The Way of a Man" (1924), demonstrating versatility across genres. After retiring from film, Tell returned to the stage, where she influenced early acting techniques that bridged silent and sound performances. Despite her relatively brief career, her contributions to silent cinema have been recognized by film historians and enthusiasts alike. Tell's legacy highlights the artistry of early 20th-century performers.

Born in 1887, Beulah Dark Cloud was one of the first Native American actresses in early Hollywood. She broke barriers by starring in silent films and used her platform to promote accurate and respectful portrayals of Indigenous peoples. Through her work, she challenged prevailing stereotypes and highlighted the richness of Native cultures. Off-screen, Dark Cloud supported Indigenous arts initiatives and raised awareness of Native American traditions. Her pioneering contributions opened doors for future generations of Native actors in the film industry.

Doris Humphrey (1895–1958) was a pioneering American modern dancer and choreographer who co-founded the Humphrey-Weidman Dance Company. She developed the fall-and-recovery technique, emphasizing the dynamics of gravity and movement. Humphrey’s choreography explored themes of human emotion and societal issues. She served as a teacher at several major universities and influenced a generation of dancers. Her 1958 book 'The Art of Making Dances' remains a foundational text in dance education. Humphrey’s legacy endures through her choreography and written contributions to modern dance.

Indus Arthur was born in 1941 in Newport News, Virginia, and built her career on stage and screen. She appeared in popular television series such as "The Alfred Hitchcock Hour" and "The Wild Wild West," as well as in feature films. Arthur showcased her vocal talents in musical theater productions and cabaret performances. She became recognized for her versatility and strong character portrayals. Her untimely death in 1984 cut short a promising career in entertainment.

Born in 1897 in New York City, Vivienne Segal began her career in operettas before making her Broadway debut in the early 1920s. She originated leading roles in hit musicals such as "The New Moon" and "The Desert Song," earning acclaim for her rich soprano voice. Segal continued to star in productions by Rodgers and Hart, becoming a fixture of the Golden Age of Broadway. She later transitioned to television and recordings, preserving her performances for new audiences. In 1963, she received a Tony Award nomination for her supporting role in "Little Me," cementing her legacy in musical theatre.

Born in 1930 in Leninakan, Frunzik Mkrtchyan studied at the Yerevan State Institute of Theatre and Cinematography before launching a prolific film career. He starred in classics such as "The Men" and "Nahapet," captivating audiences with his expressive range and comedic timing. Mkrtchyan earned the title of People's Artist of the USSR for his contributions to cinema and theatre. His unique blend of humor and pathos resonated deeply with viewers across the Soviet Union. He remained a leading figure in Armenian arts until his death in 1993.

Born in 1926 in Melbourne, Frank Thring trained at the Old Vic in London before returning to Australia for a distinguished stage career. He gained international fame for his portrayals of King Herod in the films "Ben-Hur" (1959) and "King of Kings" (1961). Thring's distinctive voice and commanding presence made him a sought-after character actor in both film and theatre. He also appeared on television and in radio dramas, showcasing his vast range. A mentor to younger performers, he remained active in the arts community until his passing in 1994.

Born in 1908 in Hollywood, Lita Grey began her acting career as a teenager, appearing opposite Charlie Chaplin in films like "The Gold Rush" and "The Circus." At age 16, she married Chaplin, a union that drew intense public scrutiny and ended with a sensational divorce. Grey later wrote the memoir "My Life with Chaplin," offering candid insights into their relationship. She continued to act in supporting roles during the transition to talkies. Her legacy endures as a window into the glamour and controversy of early Hollywood.

Born in Paris in 1906, Mireille Hartuch emerged in the vibrant cabaret clubs of the 1920s under her stage name Mireille. She composed dozens of popular chansons and recorded numerous albums that defined French musical culture. She also acted in several films, showcasing her versatile talents on screen. Hartuch hosted a successful radio program that introduced new artists and brought chanson to listeners nationwide. She collaborated with icons like Édith Piaf and Yves Montand, leaving a lasting imprint on France's golden age of music. Her career spanned over five decades, and she remains celebrated for her contributions to the French chanson tradition.

Don Taylor began his career as a character actor in the 1940s, appearing in films such as “The Naked City” and “Stalag 17.” Transitioning behind the camera in the 1960s, he directed acclaimed movies like “Escape from the Planet of the Apes” and episodes of popular TV series including “The Twilight Zone.” Taylor’s versatile talents bridged acting and directing, leaving a mark on mid-century American entertainment. His thoughtful storytelling and keen eye for performance influenced a generation of filmmakers.

Ralph Clanton was a seasoned American actor whose career spanned stage, film, and television from the 1940s to the early 2000s. Renowned for his dramatic versatility, he appeared in a variety of productions ranging from Shakespearean plays to popular TV series. Clanton’s memorable performances and distinctive presence made him a familiar face to audiences. His dedication to the performing arts and ability to bring complex characters to life left a lasting impression on American entertainment.

Earl Hindman was an American actor whose signature role was the enigmatic neighbor Wilson W. Wilson Jr. on the hit sitcom “Home Improvement,” where his face was always partially hidden by a fence. Prior to this, Hindman appeared in the soap opera “Ryan’s Hope” and guest-starred on series like “Kojak.” His understated charisma and distinctive portrayal of Wilson endeared him to millions of viewers. Hindman’s theater background and screen presence demonstrated his range as a performer. His work on “Home Improvement” remains a beloved part of 1990s television culture.