February 14

Dora Gerson was born in Berlin in 1899 and rose to fame in silent films and early sound cinema. She performed in Berlin's vibrant cabaret scene, recording songs in both German and English. Her versatile talent earned her roles in theatre productions and film before 1933. As anti-Jewish laws took effect, Gerson was barred from performing and faced persecution. In 1942, she and her family were deported to Auschwitz-Birkenau, where she was murdered in 1943. Her recordings, including a notable rendition of 'Lili Marleen,' preserve her voice and legacy.

Sig Ruman was a German-American character actor celebrated for portraying pompous German officers and officials in classic Hollywood comedies. He began his career in German theater before emigrating to the United States in 1937 to escape the Nazi regime. Ruman collaborated extensively with director Ernst Lubitsch, appearing in films such as "Ninotchka" and "To Be or Not to Be." His distinctive delivery and physical comedy endeared him to audiences, earning him leading comedic character roles. Over his five-decade career, he appeared in over fifty films and television shows, leaving an indelible mark on cinematic comedy.

Born in 1923 in Hillside, New Jersey, Michael V. Gazzo began his career as a stage actor and talent agent. His breakthrough came with the play A Hatful of Rain (1955), which earned him a Tony nomination for its raw portrayal of addiction and family conflict. Gazzo transitioned to film, delivering a memorable performance as Frank Pentangeli in The Godfather Part II (1974), garnering an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor. He continued writing, penning teleplays and scripts for television and film, including episodes of Justice League of America. Gazzo's dual talents as actor and dramatist showcased his deep understanding of character psychology. His work remains influential for its emotional honesty and dramatic power.

Perry Lopez built a versatile acting career across film, television, and theatre, earning praise for his nuanced performances. He starred as Lieutenant Lou Escobar in Roman Polanski’s noir masterpiece ‘Chinatown’ (1974), leaving a lasting impression despite limited screen time. Lopez brought depth to every role, whether portraying tough detectives, sympathetic allies, or complex antagonists. His work spanned decades, and he collaborated with some of Hollywood’s most esteemed directors. Lopez’s dedication to his craft made him a sought-after performer until his passing in 2008.

Born in 1921 in Marseille, Louis Jourdan began his acting career on the French stage before moving to Hollywood during World War II. He gained acclaim for his role in the MGM musical 'Gigi' (1958), earning a Golden Globe nomination. Jourdan often portrayed charming villains and romantic leads, most memorably the antagonist Kamal Khan in the James Bond film 'Octopussy' (1983). Beyond acting, he showcased his musical talents with occasional singing performances. Over a career spanning seven decades, Jourdan appeared in over fifty films and multiple television series. Colleagues praised his elegance, versatility, and professionalism. He passed away in 2015, leaving a legacy as one of cinema's debonair leading men.