February 01

Born in County Carlow, Ireland in 1872, Taylor moved to America and became a leading figure in silent cinema. He directed and acted in numerous films starring prominent actresses of the era. His career included collaborations with Mary Pickford and Wallace Reid. On February 1, 1922, he was found murdered in his Los Angeles bungalow, sparking one of Hollywood's most famous cold cases. The crime was never solved, fueling scandals and rumors that captivated the public. Taylor's contributions to early filmmaking remain celebrated, and his unsolved death continues to intrigue historians and film enthusiasts.

Born Nellie Crawford in Louisville in 1873, Madame Sul-Te-Wan began her acting career on stage before transitioning to film in 1915. She was one of the first African-American actresses to sign a film contract in Hollywood. Over her six-decade career, she appeared in more than 200 films, often in supporting roles that challenged racial stereotypes. Her resilience and talent paved the way for future generations of Black performers. Madame Sul-Te-Wan’s legacy endures as a trailblazer who helped break barriers in the early film industry.

Hedda Hopper was born in Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania, in 1885 and began her career as a stage and silent film actress. In the 1930s, she launched her own gossip column in the Los Angeles Times, gaining a reputation for sharp wit and insider scoops. Hopper’s relentless coverage made her one of the most powerful figures in Hollywood, feared by stars and studios alike. She used her platform to crusade against communism and promote conservative values during the Red Scare. Hopper’s colorful style and feuds with contemporaries like Louella Parsons left a lasting mark on entertainment journalism.

Born Joseph Frank Keaton in 1895, Buster Keaton rose to fame performing with his vaudeville family before transitioning to silent films. His self-directed classics such as The General and Steamboat Bill, Jr. showcased remarkable stunts and inventive visual gags. Keaton’s stoic “Great Stone Face” persona contrasted sharply with the chaotic situations he engineered on screen. Despite career struggles during the sound era, his early work influenced generations of directors and comedians. Today, Keaton is celebrated as a pioneer of cinematic comedy whose artistry endures in film history.

Heather O’Rourke was an American child actress who rose to fame at the age of five through her role as Carol Anne Freeling in the horror classic 'Poltergeist' (1982). Her memorable performance and line 'They’re here!' became part of pop culture history. She reprised her role in subsequent sequels and appeared in television shows such as 'Happy Days'. O’Rourke’s untimely death at age twelve due to medical complications shocked fans worldwide. Despite her brief career, she remains a beloved figure in horror cinema and child acting.

Born in 1925 as Hildegard Neff, she adopted the stage name Hildegard Knef and rose to fame in post-war German cinema. Her breakthrough role in the film "Die Mörder sind unter uns" showcased her dramatic talent and garnered critical acclaim. Knef later launched a singing career, recording jazz and chanson albums and performing in cabaret venues. She authored candid memoirs that offered insight into her personal and professional life in divided Germany. Knef's versatile artistry and candid storytelling made her a beloved cultural figure in Germany and beyond.

John Vernon had a prolific career spanning film, television, and theater. He appeared in notable films such as "Animal House" and lent his voice to Disney's "The Rescuers". His imposing screen persona made him a memorable supporting actor in both comedic and dramatic roles. Vernon worked extensively in television, guest-starring on popular series like "Star Trek" and "Gunsmoke". He was celebrated for his professionalism, wit, and ability to bring depth to every role. Beyond acting, Vernon was recognized for his dedication to the craft and mentorship of younger actors. His legacy endures through his diverse body of work and iconic performances.

Beto Carrero began his career as a radio personality and rodeo performer in Brazil. He adopted his stage name and gained fame as a cowboy-themed entertainer on television. In 1991, he founded Beto Carrero World, a theme park in Santa Catarina, Brazil, that became a major tourist destination. Under his leadership, the park expanded with rides, shows, and a replica Western town. Carrero was celebrated for his showmanship, charisma, and visionary entrepreneurship. He promoted Brazilian culture and entertainment on both national and international stages. His legacy lives on through the ongoing success of the theme park and his contributions to Brazilian popular culture.

Don Cornelius created 'Soul Train' in 1970, a groundbreaking television show celebrating African American music and culture. He served as its charismatic host and executive producer for over two decades. Cornelius brought R&B, soul, and later hip-hop into American living rooms, showcasing artists like Aretha Franklin and Michael Jackson. His smooth announcing style and signature sign-off, "Love, peace, and hair grease," became cultural touchstones. Under his leadership, 'Soul Train' became the longest-running syndicated show in television history. Cornelius’s work provided a vital platform for Black artists and influenced generations of music television. His legacy endures in the continued impact of 'Soul Train' on entertainment and popular culture.

Born in Vienna in 1930 into a family of actors, Maximilian Schell moved to Switzerland during his youth. He made his stage debut as a teenager and soon transitioned to film. His Oscar-winning performance in "Judgment at Nuremberg" (1961) catapulted him to international fame. Over his career, he appeared in more than 100 films, including "The Man in the Glass Booth" and "Deep Impact". Schell also directed and produced theatrical and cinematic works, showcasing his range behind the camera. Fluent in several languages, he worked across European and Hollywood productions. He continued acting on stage and screen until his death in 2014 at the age of 83.

Born in 1926 in Bromley, England, Desmond Carrington began his career as a stage and television actor after serving in World War II. He appeared in popular series such as "Dixon of Dock Green" and "Dr. Who" before turning to radio. In 1980, he launched the BBC Radio 2 program "All Time Greats," where he curated music from the 1920s to 1960s. Carrington’s warm, conversational style and deep knowledge of music endeared him to listeners for over three decades. He retired in 2016 after 36 years on air and passed away in 2017 at the age of 90.

Jeremy Hardy was an English stand-up comedian known for his witty commentary on politics and society. He became a familiar voice on BBC Radio 4 as a panelist on shows such as The News Quiz and I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue. Hardy toured extensively across the UK, performing live stand-up shows at festivals and clubs. A passionate advocate for social justice, he supported charitable causes and used humour to address important issues. In addition to performing, he contributed opinion pieces to publications like The Guardian. His warm stage presence and clever wordplay inspired a generation of comedians.