January 19

Max Adrian was an Irish-born actor celebrated for his work in theater and film. He was a founding member of the original Cambridge Footlights revue. Adrian performed in productions by the Royal Shakespeare Company and National Theatre. His film credits include memorable roles in 'The Abominable Dr. Phibes' and 'Robin and Marian.' Known for his wit and timing, he excelled in both comedic and dramatic roles. He influenced generations of actors with his dedication to craft and character depth.

Hedy Lamarr (1914–2000) was a Hollywood film star celebrated for her beauty and performances in classics like Algiers and Samson and Delilah. Beyond her acting career, she co-invented a frequency-hopping spread spectrum technology during World War II, intended to protect Allied torpedoes from jamming. Although the patent was initially overlooked, her work pioneered techniques later used in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS. A self-taught mathematician, Lamarr held a U.S. patent for the invention and was posthumously inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame. Her dual legacy as a glamorous actress and innovative thinker continues to inspire filmmakers, scientists, and inventors worldwide.

Anthony Franciosa was an award-winning actor whose career spanned over five decades. He earned a Tony Award nomination for his Broadway debut in A Hatful of Rain and later reprised the role in the film adaptation. Franciosa appeared in notable movies such as Career, West Side Story, and The Long Hot Summer. On television, he starred in series like Valentine and Matt Helm, showcasing his versatility. His brooding on-screen presence made him a distinguished figure in American entertainment. Franciosa continued to work in both leading and character roles until his death in 2006.

Suzanne Pleshette was a versatile actress whose career spanned over five decades in Hollywood and on Broadway. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Emily Hartley on the hit television sitcom The Bob Newhart Show. Pleshette also appeared in films such as Alfred Hitchcock's The Birds and Youngblood Hawke. On stage, she earned critical acclaim for her performances in both musicals and dramas. Known for her distinctive husky voice and sharp wit, she remained a popular guest star on numerous television series. Pleshette continued acting until her death in 2008, leaving behind a rich body of work.

Rudi van Dantzig was a Dutch ballet dancer, choreographer, and artistic director born in 1933. He joined the Dutch National Ballet as a principal dancer in the 1950s and quickly gained acclaim. As artistic director from 1969 to 1991, he introduced emotionally charged choreography blending classical technique with modern themes. His works, such as 'Monument for a Dead Boy', addressed social and personal subjects with profound sensitivity. Van Dantzig also authored memoirs reflecting on his life and career in dance. He mentored generations of dancers and influenced European ballet. He passed away on January 19, 2012, leaving a profound impact on the dance world.

Born in London in 1922, Sheila Sim trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and began her career on the British stage in the 1940s. She gained recognition for roles in West End productions and appeared in films such as “The Guinea Pig” (1948) and “The Romantic Age” (1949). In 1945, she married actor-director Richard Attenborough, with whom she had three children. While Sim stepped back from acting in the 1950s to focus on family life, she remained active in supporting theatrical charities and arts organizations. She received acclaim for her dedication to the performing arts community and her philanthropic efforts. Sim was appointed Lady Attenborough in recognition of her contributions to British culture and passed away in 2016.

Born in 1955 in Santa Monica, California, Miguel Ferrer was the son of actor José Ferrer and singer Rosemary Clooney. He began his acting career in the late 1970s, appearing in supporting roles in films such as “RoboCop” (1987), where he played Officer Bob Morton. Ferrer gained wider fame on television as FBI Agent Albert Rosenfield in David Lynch’s “Twin Peaks” (1990–1991, 2017). He also appeared in popular series including NCIS: Los Angeles and Crossing Jordan, and lent his voice to numerous animated projects. Known for his deep voice and intense screen presence, Ferrer worked steadily across film, television, and voice acting for over three decades. His versatility and memorable performances made him a respected figure in Hollywood until his death in 2017.