January 12

Milton Sills was born in Chicago in 1882 and began his career on the stage before transitioning to silent films. He became a top-earning leading man in the 1920s, starring in hits such as 'Flaming Youth' and 'The Sea Beast'. An accomplished screenwriter, he co-wrote several of his films, helping shape early Hollywood narratives. In 1919, he founded Milton Sills Productions to gain creative control. His charisma and versatility made him one of the era's most sought-after talents. Tragically, his career was cut short when he died from a streptococcal infection in 1930 at the age of 47. Sills left a lasting impact on silent cinema during its golden age.

Mary Louise 'Texas' Guinan was born in 1884 in Waco, Texas, and gained fame on Broadway and silent films before venturing into nightlife. Dubbed the 'Queen of the Night Clubs', she opened her first speakeasy in New York City, where her catchy greeting 'Hello, Suckers!' became legendary. Her establishments, including the 300 Club and 400 Club, attracted celebrities and socialites during the Roaring Twenties. Guinan skillfully navigated Prohibition, blending entertainment with bootlegging to build a thriving empire. She authored a memoir and appeared in newsreels, cementing her status as a cultural icon. Despite legal challenges, her bold personality influenced future generations of club owners. She died in 1933, leaving a legacy as one of America's most flamboyant and entrepreneurial entertainers.

Georges Carpentier was born in 1894 in Liévin, France, and began his boxing career as a light-weight before rising to international prominence. In 1920, he became the world light heavyweight champion after defeating Jack Bloomfield. His 1921 bout against heavyweight champion Jack Dempsey was one of the era’s most lucrative sporting events, drawing massive crowds and revenue. Beyond the ring, Carpentier appeared in several French films, showcasing his versatile talents as an actor. He served as a pilot in World War I and received military honors for his service. Known as 'The Orchid Man' for his refined style, he appealed to both sporting and societal elites. Carpentier remained a celebrated public figure until his death in 1975, remembered as one of boxing’s early global icons.

Born Woodward Maurice "Tex" Ritter in 1905, he became a pioneering figure in country music and Western cinema. With his deep baritone voice, Ritter recorded numerous hit songs and was a regular performer on the Grand Ole Opry. He starred in over 40 singing cowboy films during the 1930s and 1940s, endearing himself to audiences with his charm and musical talent. His recording of "Do Not Forsake Me, Oh My Darlin'" for the film High Noon earned him an Academy Award nomination. Ritter's career extended into television and later into the business side of entertainment. He is also remembered as the father of actor John Ritter. Tex Ritter's legacy endures as a key figure in the golden age of Westerns and country music.

Jean Delannoy began his career in the 1930s as an actor before moving behind the camera as a director and screenwriter. He gained critical acclaim for films like La Symphonie pastorale, which won the Palme d’Or at Cannes in 1947. Delannoy collaborated with prominent writers and actors, creating acclaimed adaptations of literary classics. His elegant visual style and narrative clarity defined French cinema in the 1940s and 1950s. Over a career spanning seven decades, he directed more than 40 films across various genres. Delannoy remained active in the film community, receiving lifetime achievement awards late in life. He passed away in 2008 at the age of 100, remembered as a pillar of French filmmaking.

Patsy Kelly began her career in vaudeville and Broadway before transitioning to Hollywood films in the 1930s. Known for her brassy humor and rapid-fire dialogue, she became a popular comedic foil in films alongside Wheeler & Woolsey and later starred in her own series. After a hiatus during which she battled polio, Kelly returned to entertainment on television and stage. She earned a Tony Award nomination for her performance in the Broadway play The Ritz. Kelly’s bold comedic style and offbeat charm made her a standout character actress. She was also a pioneer for LGBTQ visibility in Hollywood. Patsy Kelly passed away in 1981, remembered as one of the era’s most versatile comedic talents.

Born in Düsseldorf in 1910, Luise Rainer moved to Hollywood in the 1930s and quickly rose to stardom at MGM. She won back-to-back Oscars for her performances in The Great Ziegfeld (1936) and The Good Earth (1937), becoming the first performer to achieve this feat. Despite her early success, Rainer withdrew from Hollywood at the height of her fame, pursuing stage roles and eventual retirement. Her career spanned theater, film, and television, and she was celebrated for her intensity and versatility as an actress. Living to the age of 104, Rainer became one of the longest-lived Oscar winners. She passed away in 2014, leaving behind a legacy of remarkable achievement in cinema.

Bill Burrud was born in 1925 and began his entertainment career as a child actor. He developed a passion for travel and storytelling that led him to create and host popular television series. His shows, including Animal World and Wonderful World of Wildlife, captivated audiences with exotic locations and wildlife exploration. As a producer, Burrud’s innovative formats set new standards for documentary and reality programming. Over his career he earned multiple Emmy Awards for his work. He passed away in 1990 but left a lasting mark on television production.

Born in Milwaukee in 1930, Glenn Yarbrough rose to fame as the lead vocalist of The Limeliters, whose harmony-rich folk sound captivated audiences worldwide. After the group's initial success from 1959 to 1963, he embarked on a solo career, recording acclaimed albums and touring extensively. His clear tenor and interpretive depth made classics like "Annie Laurie" and "Shenandoah" beloved staples. Yarbrough also ventured into acting, appearing in television programs and films during the 1960s. Until his passing in 2016, he remained a celebrated figure in folk music circles, remembered for his artistry and pioneering influence.

Born in Croydon in 1932, Des O'Connor became a household name with his warm on-screen presence and comedic timing. He hosted his own variety show, released multiple successful albums, and scored hits with songs like "I Pretend." On television, O'Connor fronted series such as The Des O'Connor Show and later became a popular quizmaster on Countdown. His versatility endeared him to audiences for over six decades. He continued performing live and on TV until his death in 2020, leaving a legacy as one of Britain's most beloved entertainers.

Born George Joseph Kresge in Montclair, New Jersey, in 1935, Kreskin gained fame as "The Amazing Kreskin," performing feats of mental acuity and suggestion. He broke onto the scene as a teenager and became a television staple on variety programs, captivating audiences with his ability to divine thoughts. Author of over a dozen books on mentalism, Kreskin toured the world, headlining live stage shows that blended psychology and showmanship. He founded the Kreskin Foundation to mentor young performers and remained active until his passing in 2024.

Born in London in 1937, Shirley Eaton began her career as a model before transitioning to acting in the late 1950s. She gained international fame as Jill Masterson, the character famously painted in gold, in the 1964 Bond classic Goldfinger. Eaton appeared in a range of British horror and comedy films, including the Hammer horror series and Carry On Nurse. Her striking screen presence and charismatic performances made her a popular figure in 1960s cinema. After marrying actor Colin Sernan and having two children, she retired from acting to focus on her family. Decades later, fans continue to celebrate her contributions to film, and her Goldfinger role remains one of cinema's most enduring images.