January 12

Born in 1866, Gervase Elwes became one of England's leading tenors, renowned for his rich tone and expressive delivery. He championed contemporary composers and helped popularize British art songs and oratorios. Elwes regularly performed at the Queen's Hall and collaborated with composers like Gabriel Fauré and Edward Elgar. In addition to his singing career, he made appearances as an actor, showcasing his stage presence. His tragic death in 1921, when he fell under a train, shocked the music world and inspired memorial concerts. Elwes's legacy endures through recordings and the artists he influenced.

Born in Hachiōji, Tokyo, Fukasaku began his career as a child actor before moving into directing. He gained acclaim in the 1970s for gritty yakuza films like Battles Without Honor and Humanity. Fukasaku's style combined documentary realism with dynamic action sequences. In 2000, he directed Battle Royale, a controversial and globally influential dystopian film. He wrote and directed over 50 productions, shaping modern Japanese cinema. Fukasaku was honored with retrospectives and awards before his death in 2003.

Amrish Puri appeared in over 400 films, earning fame for his commanding performances as memorable villains like Mogambo in 'Mr. India'. He was one of the few Indian actors to break into Hollywood, playing Mola Ram in 'Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom'. Trained in theatre, Puri brought depth and charisma to every role, becoming a cultural icon in Indian cinema. He received three Filmfare Awards for Best Supporting Actor and was honored with India's Padma Shri in 2004. Puri's distinctive voice and presence continue to influence actors and filmmakers worldwide.

Claude Berri began his career as an actor before gaining fame as a director and screenwriter in French cinema. He produced and directed classics such as 'Jean de Florette' and 'Manon des Sources', winning multiple César Awards. Berri's films often explored human drama, rural life, and social issues with emotional depth and craftsmanship. He founded a production company that supported emerging filmmakers and helped bring French stories to an international audience. As a screenwriter, actor, and producer, Berri left an indelible mark on European film culture.

Glenda Dickerson (1945–2012) was an influential American director, choreographer, and educator renowned for bringing African-American stories to the stage. After studying drama and dance, she became a leading figure at institutions such as Rutgers University and Yale School of Drama. Dickerson's landmark productions included the O'Neill Theater Center's New Stages Festival and collaborations with the Negro Ensemble Company. Her choreography blended African dance traditions with contemporary theater, creating dynamic performances that challenged social norms. An advocate for diversity, she mentored emerging artists and taught master classes nationwide. Her work earned her awards including the Obie Award and induction into the Black Filmmakers Hall of Fame. She passed away in 2012, leaving an enduring impact on American theater and dance education.

Alexandra Bastedo (1946–2014) gained international fame portraying secret agent Sharron Macready in the British television series The Champions from 1968 to 1969. Born in London, she began her career as a model before transitioning to acting, appearing in films and television throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Bastedo was also a passionate animal welfare advocate, co-founding the Cheetah Conservation Fund UK and raising awareness for endangered species. Her charisma and dedication earned her a loyal fan base and recognition in both entertainment and conservation circles. She continued to act and attend fan conventions until her death in 2014, remembered for her elegance and empathy. Her contributions to acting and wildlife conservation remain influential to this day.

Leslie Charleson began her career in the 1960s with film roles such as in "Twelve O'Clock High" before transitioning to daytime television. In 1977, she joined the cast of General Hospital as Dr. Monica Quartermaine, a role she has played for over four decades, earning multiple Daytime Emmy nominations. Her nuanced performances and strong on-screen presence have made her a staple of daytime drama. Off-screen, Charleson is an advocate for environmental and animal welfare causes. Her enduring commitment to her craft and fans highlights her remarkable versatility and staying power in the entertainment industry.

Born in Nashville in 1934, Claude Jarman Jr. achieved early fame at age 12 with his Academy Award–nominated performance in "The Yearling" (1946), becoming one of the youngest acting nominees in Oscar history. After a successful run as a child star, he transitioned behind the scenes to film production and studio executive roles, shaping industry projects from development to release. Jarman’s unique career path—from celebrated young actor to influential producer—demonstrates his deep passion for storytelling and the art of filmmaking. His experiences continue to inspire actors and producers across generations.