February 14

John Barrymore made his Broadway debut in 1903 and quickly rose to fame as a gifted stage actor. He was acclaimed for his portrayal of Shakespearean roles, most notably Hamlet, which he performed to great critical acclaim. In Hollywood's silent era, Barrymore transitioned to film, starring in major productions like 'Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde' and 'Don Juan.' His charismatic presence and distinctive voice also made him a standout in early talkies, earning him an Academy Award nomination for 'Don Juan.' Despite personal struggles with alcoholism, he left an indelible mark on American theater and cinema. Barrymore's artistry and family legacy continue to influence actors today.

Nils Olaf Chrisander forged a career during the 1910s as a leading figure in silent films across Sweden and Germany. He began on the Swedish stage before transitioning to the screen, where his expressive acting captured audiences. As a director, he experimented with storytelling and visual composition, influencing the development of early cinema. He directed several acclaimed silent features, showcasing his knack for atmospheric narratives. Though many of his works are lost, his contributions laid groundwork for future filmmakers in Scandinavia and beyond.

Jack Benny rose from vaudeville stages to become one of America's most beloved comedians in the 1930s. His long-running radio program, 'The Jack Benny Program', showcased his impeccable timing and self-deprecating humor. Benny transitioned successfully to television, bringing his trademark characters and running gags to a new audience. Known for his comic violin performances and the recurring '50 cents' joke, he influenced generations of comedians. He also appeared in films, often playing exaggerated versions of his on-air persona. With a career spanning over five decades, Benny left an indelible mark on American entertainment.

Thelma Ritter was an American actress whose career spanned stage, film, and television, earning her six Academy Award nominations for Best Supporting Actress. She debuted on Broadway in the 1930s before moving to Hollywood, where her portrayals of no-nonsense yet warm characters in films like "All About Eve" and "Rear Window" won critical acclaim. Ritter's comedic timing and distinctive New York accent made her a popular figure among audiences and directors alike. She also showcased her singing talent in musicals and variety shows. Beyond acting, Ritter was known for her kindness and mentorship of younger actors. Her legacy endures as one of the greatest character actresses in American cinema.

Stuart Erwin was an American actor who appeared in over 100 films, earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for "Pigskin Parade" (1936). He often portrayed humble, good-natured characters in comedies and dramas, showcasing a gentle charm and everyman appeal. Erwin worked with major studios such as Fox and Columbia, starring alongside leading stars of his day. In later years, he transitioned to television, appearing in series like "Route 66" and "The Twilight Zone". Off-screen, Erwin was respected for his professionalism and warmth, maintaining long friendships within the industry. He left an indelible mark on Hollywood's Golden Age before his death in 1967.

Sally Gray began her career on the London stage, winning acclaim for her singing and dancing. Transitioning to film in the mid-1930s, she appeared in popular British musicals and dramas. Gray's glamorous screen presence made her one of the era's leading ladies. During World War II, she entertained troops and continued acting in cinema hits such as Madonna of the Seven Moons. After marrying in 1949, Gray largely retired from acting, leaving a legacy of elegance and versatility on stage and screen.

Edward Platt was an American actor whose deep voice and stern presence made him a memorable character performer. After studying drama at Yale, he appeared in numerous Broadway productions and films throughout the 1950s. Platt achieved iconic status starring as The Chief in Mel Brooks and Buck Henry's hit TV series Get Smart from 1965 to 1970. His portrayal of the efficient yet exasperated boss became a hallmark of 1960s television comedy. In addition to television, Platt guest-starred in popular shows like Perry Mason and The Outer Limits. He continued acting until his untimely death in 1974, leaving a lasting legacy in comedic television.

Born in Toronto in 1927, Lois Maxwell began her career as a model before moving into acting. In 1962, she originated the role of Miss Moneypenny opposite Sean Connery in Dr. No, a part she would embody in 14 Bond films over 23 years. Known for her wit and charm, she became a beloved fixture of the long-running franchise. Outside of Bond, Maxwell appeared in stage productions and television shows in Canada and Australia. Her pioneering work paved the way for comedic supporting female roles in action cinema, and her legacy endures in popular culture.

Born in New York City as Victor Morozoff, Vic Morrow began his acting career in the 1950s with stage and radio performances. He gained national fame starring as Sergeant Chip Saunders in the Emmy-winning war series Combat! from 1962 to 1967. Morrow's film credits included roles in A Man Called Peter and Bayou alongside Brenda Freeman, showcasing his versatility. In addition to acting, he directed several television episodes and independent films. His life tragically ended during the filming of Twilight Zone: The Movie in 1982, when a helicopter accident claimed his life and those of two child actors, leading to industry-wide safety reforms.

Born in Detroit, Michigan, Brian Kelly began acting on stage and in guest TV roles before landing his breakout part as Flipper's park ranger Porter Ricks from 1964 to 1967. His portrayal of the resourceful, nature-loving ranger made him a household name and helped popularize marine conservation themes. Kelly later expanded into directing and producing, working on various television series and films. He continued to act in guest appearances and voice work into the 1990s. Beyond his entertainment career, Kelly was an advocate for animal welfare and environmental causes, reflecting his lifelong passion for nature.

Born in Stockholm, Harriet Andersson rose to international fame as a leading actress in Ingmar Bergman's golden era of filmmaking. Her breakthrough role in Summer with Monika (1953) revealed a raw and naturalistic performance that challenged social norms. She starred in several Bergman classics, including Smiles of a Summer Night, Cries and Whispers, and Through a Glass Darkly, earning critical acclaim for her emotional depth. Andersson's work extended to theatre and television, where she continued to explore complex and nuanced characters. Throughout her career, she remained one of Sweden's most celebrated actresses, influencing generations of performers with her fearless approach to dramatic roles.

Born in Dale, Indiana, Florence Henderson began her career in musical theater, starring in Broadway productions such as Fanny and The Girl Who Came to Supper. In 1969, she was cast as the matriarch Carol Brady in the popular sitcom The Brady Bunch, a role that made her a television icon. Henderson showcased her singing talents on talk shows, benefit concerts, and live performances, releasing a collection of easy-listening albums. After The Brady Bunch ended, she appeared on game shows, variety programs, and reality series, maintaining a warm public persona. Throughout her career, she advocated for children's charities and used her platform to inspire positivity and family values.