January 11

Born in 1818 in Dublin, Brooke became a leading figure at London's Covent Garden and Dublin's Theatre Royal, acclaimed for roles such as Hamlet, Macduff, and King Lear. He toured extensively, introducing high-caliber Shakespearean drama to colonial audiences in Australia. In 1866, returning from a successful tour, he perished in the wreck of the steamship London in the Bay of Biscay. His dramatic flair and dedication to his craft left a lasting impact on the theatrical world.

Born in Berlin in 1883, Elena Gerhardt trained at the Berlin Royal Academy of Music. She gained recognition for her expressive interpretations of German art songs by composers such as Schubert and Brahms. Gerhardt toured extensively across Europe and the United States, bringing lieder to new audiences. In addition to her singing career, she appeared on stage in several theatrical productions. Her performances were praised for their emotional depth and technical precision. After retiring from concert life, she taught voice to a new generation of singers. Gerhardt passed away in 1961, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of art song.

Max Lorenz was a leading German Heldentenor of the mid-20th century. He gained fame for his powerful resonance and dramatic portrayals of Wagnerian heroes like Tristan and Siegfried. He performed regularly at the Bayreuth Festival and major opera houses across Europe. Beyond the stage, Lorenz also appeared in German films, showcasing his acting talents. During the Nazi era, he navigated political pressures while married to a Jewish woman, maintaining his artistry. His extensive recordings remain treasured by opera enthusiasts for their commanding presence and musicality.

Beulah Bondi was an acclaimed American character actress whose career spanned over six decades. She is best remembered for her heartfelt roles in films like 'Of Human Hearts' and 'It's a Wonderful Life'. Bondi earned two Academy Award nominations for Best Supporting Actress during Hollywood's Golden Age. She also found success on Broadway and later in television, showcasing her versatility. Her naturalistic performances and dignified presence made her a beloved figure in American cinema. Bondi's legacy endures through her memorable characterizations and lasting influence on screen acting.

Edward Buzzell began his career as a stage actor before transitioning to film in the 1920s. He appeared in both silent films and early talkies before moving behind the camera in the 1930s. At MGM, he directed popular musicals such as 'Girl Crazy' and comedies like 'Best Foot Forward'. Buzzell also co-wrote screenplays, demonstrating versatility in his creative talents. He collaborated with stars like Judy Garland and Red Skelton during Hollywood's Golden Age. His contributions to film continue to be enjoyed for their charm, wit, and musical flair.

Ray Moore (born Rayleigh Moore in 1942) was an influential English radio presenter whose warm voice and engaging style made him a household name across the UK. He began his broadcasting career in local radio before joining BBC Radio 1 and later BBC Radio 2. Moore co-hosted the Breakfast Show with Terry Wogan in the 1970s, helping to shape morning radio with his humor and spontaneity. He was admired for his genuine connection with listeners and his ability to debut new music to the public. His untimely death on January 11, 1989, was mourned by fans and colleagues alike.

Born in 1920 to Armenian parents and raised in France, Henri Verneuil directed over thirty films spanning thrillers, dramas, and comedies. His notable works include 'The Sicilian Clan' and 'I... comme Icare', collaborating with stars like Jean-Paul Belmondo and Alain Delon. Verneuil also penned several plays that reflected his bicultural heritage and passion for storytelling. His polished visual style and narrative versatility made him a leading figure in French cinema from the 1950s to the 1990s. He received multiple César Award nominations and was honored at the Cannes Film Festival. Verneuil passed away in 2002, leaving a vibrant cinematic legacy.

Born in 1941 in Rhode Island, Spalding Gray became renowned for his deeply personal solo performances, including 'Swimming to Cambodia' and 'Monster in a Box'. His work blended theater, memoir, and monologue to explore themes of travel, creativity, and vulnerability. Gray also appeared in films by Jonathan Demme and performed extensively in experimental theater. His candid storytelling and raw emotional honesty won critical acclaim and influenced a generation of performance artists. Gray's battles with depression often informed his narrative style, bringing authenticity to his work. He died in 2004, leaving a profound impact on contemporary performance art.

Born in 1961, Solveig Dommartin gained international recognition for her ethereal performance as Marion in Wim Wenders’ classic film 'Wings of Desire'. Trained in theater, she captivated audiences with her nuanced portrayal of an angel's love interest. Beyond this iconic role, Dommartin collaborated closely with Wenders on screenwriting and other film projects. She appeared in numerous European cinema and stage productions, showcasing her versatility and depth as an actress. A passionate painter, her artwork mirrored the introspective quality of her performances. Dommartin died in 2007, remembered as a luminous talent of art house cinema.

David Nelson co-starred with his family on the long-running TV sitcom "The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet". He later transitioned to directing and producing films and television shows. Nelson collaborated with his brothers Ricky and Craig in various entertainment projects. His work behind the camera included documentaries and feature films. Nelson's career spanned over six decades in Hollywood.

Mariangela Melato (1941–2013) was a celebrated Italian actress whose career spanned theater, film, and television. She gained international acclaim for her roles in Lina Wertmüller's films such as 'The Seduction of Mimi' and 'Love and Anarchy.' Melato's versatility allowed her to excel in both comedic and dramatic roles, earning her multiple awards. She also delivered powerful performances in classic plays and collaborated with leading directors. Her captivating presence and emotional depth made her one of Italy's most respected performers.

Keiko Awaji (1933–2014) was a prominent Japanese actress who rose to fame in the postwar era. She gained international recognition for her role as Sazuko in the Hollywood film 'The Bridges at Toko-Ri' opposite William Holden. In Japan, Awaji starred in numerous films, collaborating with leading directors of the time. Her performances were praised for their emotional nuance and strength. She also appeared in television dramas and stage productions, showcasing her versatility. Awaji's elegant presence helped shape Japanese cinema's golden age, and she remained active in the arts until her later years.