January 15

Molière was born Jean-Baptiste Poquelin and became one of France's most beloved dramatists. He founded the Illustre Théâtre troupe and later performed before King Louis XIV. His works, including 'Tartuffe' and 'The Misanthrope,' satirize hypocrisy and social pretensions. Molière skillfully blended comedy with social critique, influencing European theatre. His legacy endures as a master of comedic writing and stagecraft.

Jacques Damala (1855-1889) was born into an aristocratic Greek family and served as a French soldier. He later turned to acting and joined Sarah Bernhardt's company. He married Bernhardt in 1882, but their relationship was marked by conflict and separation. His promising stage career was overshadowed by personal struggles and alcoholism. Damala died at the age of 34, his legacy intertwined with that of Bernhardt.

Ernest Thesiger was born in 1879 in London into an artistic family. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and became known for his stage performances. Thesiger brought memorable flair to roles in Ealing Studios' horror classics like 'The Old Dark House.' His eccentric persona and expressive dialogue delivery left a mark on British cinema. Beyond acting, he designed theatrical costumes and wrote on dramatic arts. Thesiger's career spanned silent films to talkies, making him a versatile figure in early film history.

Born in Ireland in 1893, Rex Ingram became a pioneering director of silent-era Hollywood epics. His films such as ‘The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse’ (1921) and ‘The Prisoner of Zenda’ (1922) showcased his grand visual style. In addition to directing, Ingram wrote scripts and occasionally appeared in front of the camera as an actor. He mentored several notable figures of the film industry during his time on the French Riviera. After his career peaked in the mid-1920s, he retired from filmmaking and passed away in 1950, leaving a legacy of early cinematic innovation.

Born in Cardiff in 1893, Ivor Novello became one of the most celebrated British composers of popular songs and musicals. His hits include ‘Keep the Home Fires Burning’ and the stage musical ‘The Dancing Years.’ Novello also appeared as an actor in both film and on the London stage, starring in works like ‘Alibi.’ He co-founded the Ivor Novello Awards to honor songwriting excellence in the UK. Novello’s blend of romantic melodies and theatrical flair has left a lasting mark on British musical heritage.

Born in 1896 in York, Western Australia, Marjorie Bennett launched her acting career in Hollywood in the 1920s. Known for her distinctive nose and versatile character roles, she appeared in films like ‘The Women’ and ‘Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.’ Her career transitioned to television, with guest spots on popular series including ‘Perry Mason’ and ‘Batman.’ Bennett’s warm comedic timing and strong supporting performances made her a memorable presence on screen. She continued acting into her eighties, passing away in 1982 and leaving behind a legacy of character artistry.

Born in London in 1905, he began his acting career on the British stage before moving to Hollywood in the 1940s. With his tall, gaunt frame and deep voice, Thatcher carved out a niche as a compelling antagonist, appearing in films such as The Black Swan, Ivanhoe, and The 7th Voyage of Sinbad. He also made numerous television appearances on series like Star Trek and Perry Mason, showcasing his versatility. Despite being typecast as the heavy, he delivered memorable performances that are still celebrated by classic film aficionados. Thatcher's career spanned over three decades, during which he worked with major studios and renowned directors. He retired in the late 1970s and passed away in 1981, leaving behind a legacy of unforgettable character roles.

Born in Chicago in 1909, Krupa became fascinated with drumming as a teenager, studying under renowned percussionist Roy Knapp. He rose to fame in the 1930s as part of Benny Goodman's orchestra, delivering iconic performances that showcased his virtuosity. In 1938, he formed his own band, pioneering a showmanship-driven approach that brought the drums to the forefront. Krupa also appeared in films and recordings, expanding the reach of jazz to wider audiences. His influence extended to countless drummers, and he was instrumental in designing modern drum kits with cymbals located above the bass drum. After overcoming health challenges in the 1940s, he continued performing and teaching until his death in 1973. His dynamic style and charismatic presence helped cement jazz as a leading American art form.

Born in California in 1913, Bridges began acting on Broadway before breaking into Hollywood films in the late 1930s. He served in the Navy during World War II and resumed his career afterward, taking on diverse roles in dramas, comedies, and thrillers. His portrayal of Mike Nelson in Sea Hunt from 1958 to 1961 made him a household name and demonstrated his athletic prowess in underwater adventure scenes. Bridges later appeared in notable films such as High Noon, The Flight of the Phoenix, and the cult comedy Airplane!, showcasing his versatility. He was nominated for Emmy Awards and enjoyed a late-career resurgence with guest roles on popular TV shows. Bridges also nurtured a family acting legacy, with sons Beau and Jeff Bridges achieving their own stardom. He passed away in 1998, leaving behind a rich catalog of performances beloved by generations.

K. A. Thangavelu was born in 1917 in Tamil Nadu, India, and rose to fame in Tamil cinema with his unique comedic style.\nHe earned the nickname Danaal for his signature dialogue delivery and appeared in over 200 films.\nHis partnership with leading actors of his era made him a household name in South India.\nThangavelu won acclaim for films like Thirudan and Kavalai Illaadha Manithan, showcasing his versatility.\nBeyond comedy, he took on character roles and influenced generations of Indian comedians.\nHe passed away in 1994, leaving a lasting legacy in film comedy.

Frank Thornton began his acting career on stage in the 1940s before transitioning to film and television. He gained widespread fame for portraying the pompous Captain Peacock in the long-running BBC sitcom 'Are You Being Served?' from 1972 to 1985. Thornton also appeared in series such as 'Last of the Summer Wine' as Herbert 'Truly of the Yard' Truelove. His distinctive comedic timing and deadpan delivery endeared him to audiences. He continued acting into his late 80s, leaving a lasting legacy in British comedy. Thornton was honored with an MBE for his contributions to entertainment.

Ignacio López Tarso was one of the most prominent figures in Mexican performing arts. He starred in over one hundred films and numerous theatrical productions over a career spanning seven decades. His breakout role in the 1960 film 'Macario' brought him international recognition when the film became the first Mexican feature nominated for an Academy Award. He was honored with multiple Ariel Awards for his performances and received the National Prize for Arts and Sciences in Fine Arts. Tarso also contributed to television and taught acting to new generations of performers. His commanding presence and versatility made him a beloved icon in Mexico.