January 13

Born in 1886 in Odessa, Tucker immigrated to the United States as a child. She rose to fame in vaudeville with her powerful voice and risqué humor. Tucker's Broadway and radio appearances made her a household name in the 1920s and 1930s. Known for songs like 'Some of These Days,' she broke social barriers with her bold performance style. Her career spanned nearly seven decades, influencing generations of entertainers. Tucker's persona and talent left a lasting mark on American popular culture.

Born in Oklahoma in 1905, Kay Francis began her career on Broadway. She signed with Paramount Pictures and quickly became a leading lady. Francis starred in popular films such as 'Trouble in Paradise' and 'Counsellor at Law'. Her sophisticated style and dramatic flair made her a fashion icon. By the mid-1930s, she was one of the industry's top box-office draws. Financial disputes led her to move from studio to studio in later years. Francis faced personal challenges before passing away in 1968. She is remembered for her glamour and memorable screen presence.

Born Ingeborg Frederiksen in Copenhagen, Osa Massen trained at the Royal Danish Theatre before moving to the United States in the mid-1930s. She made her Hollywood debut in Spy Ring (1938) and went on to appear in films such as The Story of Dr. Wassell (1944) and Criminal Court (1946). Her striking presence and range led to acclaimed roles in Letter from an Unknown Woman (1948) and other classics. Massen transitioned to television in the 1950s with guest appearances on series like Alfred Hitchcock Presents. Over her career, she worked alongside icons of the Golden Age of cinema, leaving a legacy of memorable performances that spanned stage, film, and television.

Born Charles Langford Modini Stack Jr. in Los Angeles, Robert Stack began his film career in the late 1930s and became a leading man in 1950s Hollywood. He earned an Academy Award nomination for his role in Written on the Wind (1956) before achieving iconic status as federal agent Eliot Ness in the television series The Untouchables (1959–1963), for which he won a Primetime Emmy Award. In the 1980s and 1990s, Stack hosted and produced the hit documentary series Unsolved Mysteries, captivating audiences with his commanding presence. With a career spanning over six decades, he remained a respected figure in both film and television.

Born in Willesden, Jack Watling trained in theatre before making his film debut in the late 1940s, starring in It Always Rains on Sunday (1947) and The Long Dark Hall (1951). He seamlessly transitioned to television, appearing in series such as The Avengers and portraying Professor Parry in the Doctor Who serial The Sea Devils (1972). Watling's nuanced performances and versatility made him a respected character actor. He also appeared on stage in the West End and contributed to radio dramas. Married to actress Mary Wimbush, he was the father of actors Deborah and Giles Watling, continuing his family's acting legacy.

Roland Petit was born in Villemomble, France, in 1924 and trained at the Paris Opera Ballet School. He founded the Ballets de Paris in 1948 and created groundbreaking works that blended classical technique with contemporary themes. His productions, including Carmen and Le Jeune Homme et la Mort, showcased dramatic storytelling and striking visual design. Petit collaborated with artists and designers such as Picasso and Chanel, bringing a unique flair to his choreography. He served as director of the Paris Opera Ballet and the Ballet National de Marseille. Over his career, Petit received numerous honors, including the Légion d’Honneur. He passed away in 2011, leaving a lasting impact on the world of dance.

Rosemary Murphy was born in Munich in 1925 to American parents and later moved to the United States. She graduated from the Catholic University of America with a degree in acting and made her Broadway debut in the early 1950s. Murphy earned an Academy Award nomination for her role in To Kill a Mockingbird and won Emmy Awards for her work in television films like Eleanor and Mrs. Delafield Wants to Marry. Known for her nuanced character portrayals, she appeared in classics such as The Enforcer and The Exorcist III. Her career spanned six decades, during which she remained a respected figure in the performing arts. Murphy passed away in 2014, remembered for her depth and grace on screen and stage.

Gwen Verdon was born in Culver City, California, in 1925 and trained under choreographer Jack Cole. She broke through with her performance in the musical Can-Can, earning her first Tony Award. Verdon won a total of four Tony Awards for roles in Damn Yankees, New Girl in Town, Redhead, and Sweet Charity. She collaborated closely with her husband, Bob Fosse, creating some of the most iconic dance numbers in Broadway history. Verdon also appeared in films like Chicago and musicals on television. She was celebrated for her dynamic energy, precise technique, and magnetic stage presence. Verdon passed away in 2000, leaving an indelible mark on American musical theater.

Born in Washington, D.C., Frances Sternhagen trained at Central Washington State College. She made her Broadway debut in 1953 and earned multiple Tony Award nominations. Sternhagen became a familiar face in films like "Misery" and television series such as "Cheers" and "The Closer." Celebrated for her commanding presence and versatility, she tackled both dramatic and comedic roles. Her enduring career made her one of America's most respected character actresses.

Born in Ipswich, England, Ian Hendry studied at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. He rose to fame as the lead in the first season of the cult series "The Avengers." Hendry went on to deliver powerful performances in films such as "Repulsion" and "Get Carter." Known for his intense screen presence, he remained a respected character actor until his untimely death. His work continues to influence British television and film actors.

Born in the Bronx, New York, Charles Nelson Reilly made his Broadway debut in the 1950s. He won a Tony Award for his performance in "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying." Reilly charmed audiences with his flamboyant humor on television programs like "Match Game" and "The Tonight Show." He also directed several Broadway productions and appeared in films and TV dramas. Remembered as a beloved entertainment icon, his influence endures in comedy and theater.