February 13

Costache Caragiale was born in 1815 in Bucharest and became one of the first professional actors in Romania. He founded and managed prominent theaters in Bucharest and Iași, introducing Romanian audiences to both local and European plays. Caragiale's performances were noted for their emotional depth and realism, helping to elevate the status of Romanian theater. He also supported emerging playwrights and contributed to the cultural life of his country. Brother of the famous writer Ion Luca Caragiale, he helped lay the foundations for a national dramatic tradition. He died in 1877, remembered as a pioneer of Romanian stage art.

Mae Marsh achieved stardom as a teenager in D.W. Griffith's groundbreaking films 'The Birth of a Nation' and 'Intolerance,' where her expressive performances captivated audiences. She appeared in over 100 films throughout her career, successfully transitioning into sound pictures and later character roles. Marsh worked with directors like John Ford and appeared in notable productions such as 'Show Boat.' Her longevity in Hollywood spanned from the early 1910s to the 1960s, making her one of the enduring figures of the silent era.

Born in Provence in 1904, Lily Pons won a music competition that launched her career at the Paris Opera. She became the first singer to broadcast live from the Metropolitan Opera, captivating audiences with roles like Lucia and Lakmé. Pons appeared in Hollywood films such as 'Hitting a New High' and made regular radio and television guest appearances. She authored an autobiography, 'Life Is a Song', and later taught voice, influencing a new generation of singers. Her recordings remain benchmarks of the coloratura repertoire and continue to inspire opera enthusiasts.

Born David Harold Meyer in 1931, Janssen's career took off with the detective series 'Richard Diamond, Private Detective'. He achieved widespread fame playing Dr. Richard Kimble in 'The Fugitive' from 1963 to 1967, earning an Emmy nomination. Janssen's intense screen presence and versatility led to roles in films, television movies, and stage productions. He won critical acclaim for his dramatic range and continued to appear in television dramas throughout the 1970s. Janssen's sudden passing in 1980 left behind a legacy as one of television's most compelling leading men.

Born in 1919 in New York City, Martin Balsam studied at the Neighborhood Playhouse before Broadway debut. He appeared in '12 Angry Men' (1957) and won a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor in 'A Thousand Clowns'. Balsam is perhaps best remembered as Detective Sam Loomis in Hitchcock's 'Psycho' (1960). He earned an Emmy for his portrayal in the television miniseries 'Eleanor and Franklin'. Over a five-decade career, Balsam brought depth and authenticity to more than 100 film and television roles.

Russell Arms (1920–2012) was an American performer whose career spanned radio, film, and television. He began singing on local radio broadcasts before transitioning into acting roles in feature films and TV series. Arms recorded songs that received national airtime, showcasing his versatile talent. On screen, he portrayed a range of characters from dramatic leads to supporting roles. His multi-faceted career exemplified the entertainment spirit of postwar America, leaving a legacy in both music and acting.

Ralph Waite (1928–2014) was an American actor celebrated for his role as the patriarch John Walton Sr. in the long-running television series The Waltons. He began his career on stage before moving to film and television, appearing in movies such as Cool Hand Luke. Beyond acting, Waite was a passionate advocate for social justice, participating in the Civil Rights Movement and supporting labor unions. He held a degree in divinity and briefly served as a Presbyterian minister. His work behind the scenes included teaching acting at UC San Diego and Smith College. Waite’s warm presence and commitment to activism left a lasting legacy in both entertainment and social causes.

Stan Chambers (1923–2015) was a pioneering American television reporter whose career at Los Angeles station KTLA spanned over six decades. He covered landmark events including the Northridge earthquake, the Watts riots, and the Black Dahlia murder case. Chambers earned a Guinness World Record for the longest career as a television news reporter at a single station. In addition to journalism, he made cameo appearances in films and television shows. His dedication to storytelling and on-the-ground reporting set a high standard for broadcast journalism. Chambers’s legacy lives on as a model of integrity and perseverance in the news industry.