February 16

Born in 1893, Vera Kholodnaya rose to fame with her expressive performances in early Russian silent films. She starred in hits like 'Song About the Merchant Kalashnikov' and became known as the 'Queen of Screen.' Her delicate beauty and emotional depth captivated audiences across the Russian Empire. Tragically, her career was cut short when she died of the Spanish flu in 1919. Despite her brief life, her legacy endures in the history of early cinema.

Born Edwin Fitzgerald in 1856, Foy became a star of vaudeville with his quick wit and lively stage presence. He created the enduring 'Seven Little Foys' family act featuring his children. Foy's signature dance routines and comedic timing made him a favorite in variety theaters and early Broadway shows. He successfully transitioned to film in the silent era while continuing live performances. His influence on comedy and family entertainment endured long after his death in 1928.

Born in 1911, Smiley Burnette gained fame as the witty sidekick in numerous Western films. He wrote and performed over a hundred songs that became staples of the genre. Burnette appeared in radio, television, and movies, winning audiences with his humor and musical talent. He collaborated with stars like Gene Autry and Roy Rogers, leaving a lasting mark on American entertainment. Burnette's versatility as both a musician and actor continued until his passing in 1967.

Born in 1932, Bowen gained fame for portraying Lieutenant Colonel Henry Blake in the 1970 film M*A*S*H. He wrote humorous novels exploring satire and human absurdity. A graduate of Princeton University, he pursued both stage and screen performances. Bowen's wit and charm shone in his character roles throughout the 1960s and 1970s. He balanced acting with writing, leaving a legacy of humor on page and screen.

Born in 1908, Marceline Day began her career as a dancer before transitioning to film. She appeared in over 50 silent films, including popular comedies and dramas. Her performance in 'The Cameraman' alongside Buster Keaton is considered a highlight of her career. With the advent of sound, she made a successful transition to talkies but eventually retired from acting in the late 1930s. Day's grace and charm endeared her to audiences, making her a memorable figure of early Hollywood. She passed away in 2000, leaving behind a legacy of silent film glamour.

Born in Russia, Lila Kedrova trained as a ballerina before turning to acting. She built a distinguished career in French theater and film, earning acclaim for her versatility. Kedrova won the Academy Award and Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actress for her performance as Madame Hortense in 'Zorba the Greek' in 1964. She also showcased her singing talent in musical productions and recordings. In addition to her film work, she performed on stage around the world, including London's West End and New York's Broadway. Kedrova's elegant presence and emotional depth made her a beloved figure in international cinema until her death in 2000.

Rusty Magee was born in 1955 and became a celebrated figure in New York's theater scene. He wrote music and lyrics for numerous Off-Broadway shows, including the hit revue 'Whoop-Dee-Doo!'. Magee also appeared on stage and screen as a character actor, showcasing his comedic talent. His collaborations with playwrights and directors earned him Drama Desk and Obie Award nominations. Magee's lively compositions and performances delighted audiences until his untimely death in 2003. His creative spirit continues to inspire musical theater artists.

Len Lesser was born in New York City in 1922 and served as a radioman in the US Navy during World War II. He began acting on stage and radio before transitioning to film and television in the 1950s. Over his career, he appeared in dozens of movies and hundreds of TV episodes, including memorable roles on The Outlaws, Everybody Loves Raymond, and Community. His portrayal of Uncle Leo on Seinfeld made him a pop culture icon. Lesser continued acting into his 80s and left an enduring mark on comedy before his passing in 2011.

Elyse Knox was born in 1917 in Hartford, Connecticut, and began her career as a fashion model in her teens. She signed with Universal Studios and appeared in films such as 'The Ghost of Frankenstein' and 'Surf Girl' during the 1940s. After leaving the screen, she launched her own fashion design line, creating elegant and practical clothing. Knox married football star Tom Harmon and was the mother of three daughters who also pursued careers in entertainment. She is remembered for her versatility and contributions to both Hollywood and fashion before her passing in 2012.

Lorena Rojas (1971–2015) was a Mexican actress and singer who captivated audiences with her performances in popular telenovelas such as "El Manantial" and "Amarte es mi Pecado." Trained at Televisa's prestigious Centro de Educación Artística, she debuted as a series regular in the early 1990s and became a household name across Latin America. In parallel, she pursued a music career, releasing heartfelt albums that showcased her versatile voice. Rojas was admired for her charitable work, supporting children's hospitals and cancer awareness after her own battle with the disease. Her legacy endures through her memorable on-screen portrayals and contributions to Latin pop music.

Bruno Ganz (1941–2019) was a Swiss actor celebrated for his versatile performances on stage and screen. He rose to international prominence as the angel Damiel in Wim Wenders' film "Wings of Desire," earning critical acclaim for his poetic portrayal. Ganz later delivered a haunting performance as Adolf Hitler in the 2004 film "Downfall," which became an iconic depiction of the dictator's final days. With a career spanning over five decades, he worked with directors across Europe and portrayed characters ranging from literary figures to complex historical personalities. He received numerous awards, including the German Film Award and lifetime achievement honors. Ganz's profoundly human approach to acting left an enduring influence on contemporary cinema.