January 07

Born in Russia in 1889, Vera de Bosset trained in classical ballet and rose to prominence for her refined technique and stage presence. She joined Sergei Diaghilev’s Ballets Russes, touring Europe and captivating audiences with her artistry. Later emigrating to the United States, de Bosset continued to dance and became an active supporter of the performing arts community. She is also remembered as the second wife of the legendary dancer Vaslav Nijinsky.

Born in 1903 in Brighton, England, Alan Napier trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and began his career on the London stage. He moved to Hollywood in the 1930s, appearing in films such as 'Rebecca' and 'Captain Blood'. Napier worked with Alfred Hitchcock before achieving lasting fame as Alfred Pennyworth in the 1966–1968 'Batman' TV series. He later made guest appearances on shows like 'Adventures in Wonderland' and 'Murder, She Wrote'. Napier continued acting into his eighties and passed away in 1988, leaving an enduring television legacy.

Francis de Wolff was born in 1913 in London and trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. He built a prolific career playing villains and authority figures in British cinema during the 1950s and 1960s. Notable film appearances include 'Captain Horatio Hornblower,' 'The Charge of the Light Brigade,' and Hammer horror classics. De Wolff also appeared on television in series such as 'Doctor Who' and 'The Avengers,' showcasing his distinctive delivery. His commanding screen persona made him a sought-after supporting actor across genres. He died in 1984, remembered as one of England's most memorable character performers.

Vincent Gardenia was born in Naples, Italy and emigrated to the United States as a child. He began his acting career on Broadway in the 1940s and appeared in numerous stage productions. Gardenia gained acclaim for his performances in the films Bang the Drum Slowly and Moonstruck, earning two Academy Award nominations. He also won a Tony Award for his role in the play The Prisoner of Second Avenue. Gardenia was a familiar face on television, with guest roles in series such as The Sopranos and Friends. Known for his distinctive voice and warm on-screen presence, he endeared himself to audiences worldwide. He continued acting until his death in 1992, leaving behind a rich body of work.

Geoffrey Bayldon was born in Leeds, England and trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. He gained fame as the title character in the television series Catweazle, earning a devoted cult following. Bayldon appeared in a wide range of productions, from Shakespearean plays to science fiction shows like Doctor Who and The Avengers. His film credits included roles in The Private Life of Sherlock Holmes and The Plague of the Zombies. Known for his refined wit and charming presence, he also performed on the West End and Broadway. Bayldon taught at drama workshops, mentoring young actors, and narrated numerous audiobooks. He was honored with the Order of the British Empire for his services to drama. Bayldon passed away in 2017, remembered for his distinguished career and unique character portrayals.

Terry Moore began her acting career as a child, appearing in films in the early 1940s. She received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role in 1956's 'Come Back, Little Sheba'. Moore appeared in a variety of genres including film noir, drama, and Westerns, with notable films such as 'Mighty Joe Young' and 'Broken Arrow'. She also worked in television series like 'Nash Bridges' and 'Dallas'. In later years, Moore became an advocate for actors' rights and maintained an active presence in Hollywood. Her enduring career and classic beauty made her a memorable figure in American cinema.

Born in 1941 in London, John Steiner trained at RADA before embarking on a diverse acting career across stage and screen. He gained recognition for his work in Italian spaghetti westerns and Gothic horror films during the 1960s and 1970s. Notable credits include Dario Argento’s Deep Red (1975) and Lucio Fulci’s City of the Living Dead (1980). Steiner’s distinctive presence and versatile performances made him a cult favorite until his death in 2022.

Erin Gray is an American actress and model who rose to fame in the late 1970s and 1980s. She portrayed Colonel Wilma Deering on the science fiction series Buck Rogers in the 25th Century, showcasing both strength and charisma. Her performance made her a pop culture icon among sci-fi fans. Gray also starred as Kate Summers in the sitcom Silver Spoons, endearing her to a broad television audience. Before acting, she built a successful modeling career in Tokyo and New York. She has continued to appear in television guest roles, commercials, and conventions. Her enduring presence in entertainment has made her a beloved figure among classic TV enthusiasts.

Sammo Hung is a Hong Kong actor, director, producer, and martial artist who helped shape the modern martial arts film genre. He began training in Peking Opera School and became known for his acrobatic fighting techniques. Hung directed and starred in classics such as Enter the Fat Dragon and Wheels on Meals, blending comedy with high-energy action. He has collaborated with icons like Jackie Chan and Bruce Lee, contributing to many groundbreaking productions. As a martial arts choreographer, his inventive fight sequences have influenced filmmakers worldwide. With a career spanning over five decades, he remains a respected figure in both Eastern and Western cinema. His longevity and versatility have made him a legend in martial arts entertainment.

Mamata Shankar is an Indian-Bengali actress and classical dancer celebrated for her performances in Bengali cinema and theater. She trained in dance from a young age under the guidance of her family’s renowned performers. Shankar has starred in celebrated Bengali films and theater productions, earning critical acclaim for her emotive acting. Her notable performances include roles in Satyajit Ray's Agantuk and other art house cinema. In addition to acting, she has produced and directed cultural programs, promoting Indian dance and drama. Her contributions have earned her recognition as a leading figure in Bengali performing arts. Shankar continues to influence new generations through workshops and cultural initiatives.

David Caruso is an American actor who rose to fame in the early 1990s for his role as NYPD Detective John Kelly on the television series NYPD Blue. He earned critical praise for his nuanced portrayal of a dedicated but troubled detective. Caruso later starred as Lieutenant Horatio Caine on the long-running CSI: Miami, becoming known for his signature sunglasses and one-liners. His performance helped make CSI: Miami a top-rated series and a pop culture phenomenon. After beginning his career in film, he transitioned to television where he achieved his greatest success. Caruso's blend of intensity and charisma has made him an enduring figure in crime drama. He continues to work in television and film, maintaining a loyal fan base.

David Marciano (born January 7, 1960) is an American actor renowned for his portrayal of Detective Raymond Vecchio in the hit series 'Due South'. He launched his television career in the late 1980s with guest appearances on popular shows such as 'L.A. Law' and 'Quantum Leap'. Marciano gained critical acclaim for his role in the espionage drama 'Homeland', where he played Virgil, a mentor to Carrie Mathison. His film credits include roles in independent features and supporting parts in major studio productions. Known for his versatility and depth, Marciano often portrays complex characters with moral ambiguity. He continues to work in both film and television, periodically returning to theater projects.