February 17

Born Eliza Rosanna Gilbert in Ireland in 1821, Lola Montez became a celebrated dancer known for her "Spider Dance." She emigrated to the United States and Europe, performing in cities from New York to Munich with great acclaim. In 1846, Montez captivated King Ludwig I of Bavaria, becoming his mistress and wielding significant political influence. Her presence at court provoked public unrest, contributing to Ludwig's abdication during the 1848 revolutions. After leaving Bavaria, she continued touring and wrote her memoirs before her death in New York in 1861.

Ruth Clifford was born on February 17, 1900, in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, and made her film debut at age 12 in D.W. Griffith's silent epic "Way Down East." She became a leading lady in silent romances before transitioning successfully to character roles in talkies. Over the next several decades, Clifford appeared in more than 80 films, including the 1942 classic "The Pride of the Yankees." In the later years of her career, she took on television roles and worked steadily into the 1950s. Known for her versatility and professionalism, Clifford left a lasting impression on audiences from the silent era through Hollywood's Golden Age. She passed away in 1998, remembered as one of the era's enduring screen talents.

Mary Brian was born on February 17, 1906, in Corsicana, Texas, and started her screen career after winning a contest sponsored by Mary Pickford. Dubbed "The Sweetest Girl in Pictures," she starred in the silent film adaptation of "Peter Pan" (1924) and appeared alongside cinema icons such as Douglas Fairbanks and John Barrymore. Transitioning to sound films, Brian featured in musicals, comedies, and dramas throughout the 1930s. As her film roles became less frequent, she embraced the emerging medium of television in the 1950s. Known for her charm and adaptability, Brian maintained a devoted fan base across several decades. She passed away in 2002, leaving behind a legacy as one of Hollywood's enduring screen talents.

Marc Lawrence was born on February 17, 1910, in New York City and began his acting career on Broadway before moving to Hollywood. Over more than six decades, he appeared in more than 100 films and television shows, often typecast as mobsters and crooks due to his distinctive look and voice. During the McCarthy era, Lawrence was blacklisted and spent several years working in Europe, where he also wrote and directed films. He returned to the United States in the 1970s and enjoyed a late-career resurgence with roles in films like "Dirty Harry" (1971) and the TV series "Falcon Crest." In addition to acting, he produced and wrote several screenplays, showcasing his versatility behind the camera. Lawrence remained active in the industry into his 90s and passed away in 2005, leaving a memorable legacy as Hollywood's quintessential character villain.

Born in 1914, Arthur Kennedy became one of Hollywood's most sought-after character actors, earning five Academy Award nominations. He appeared in classic films such as "Champion", "Lawrence of Arabia", and "Peyton Place", demonstrating remarkable range. Kennedy also found success on Broadway, winning a Tony Award for his stage work, including his performance in "Death of a Salesman". His career spanned over five decades, leaving a legacy of memorable supporting roles. He continued to appear on television through the 1980s before his death in 1990.

Born in Tropea, Italy, in 1916, Raf Vallone began his career as a professional footballer with Torino before pursuing journalism and law. He transitioned to acting after World War II and became a prominent figure in Italian neorealist cinema. Vallone starred in internationally acclaimed films such as "Bitter Rice" and "The Four Days of Naples". His collaborations with directors like Luchino Visconti and Roberto Rossellini showcased his dramatic range. He received the David di Donatello Award for Best Actor and remained active in film and television until his death in 2002.

Born in Chicago in 1919, Kathleen Freeman began her career on Broadway before transitioning to Hollywood. She earned critical acclaim for her supporting roles in comedies such as "The Blues Brothers", where her deadpan delivery became iconic. Freeman received a Tony Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress and appeared in a range of TV series including "Bewitched" and "The Odd Couple". Her versatility extended to voice work in animated films. Over her five-decade career, she became one of Hollywood's most beloved character actors before her death in 2001.

Hal Holbrook was an acclaimed American actor whose portrayal of Mark Twain spanned six decades. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1925, he debuted his one-man show 'Mark Twain Tonight!' in 1954, earning a Tony Award in 1966. Holbrook’s riveting performance brought Twain’s wit and wisdom to life for millions of theatergoers. In film, he earned critical praise for playing Deep Throat in 'All the President’s Men' and supporting roles in 'Into the Wild'. He won an Emmy Award for his portrayal of journalist Mike Wallace in the television movie 'To Catch a Tiger.' Holbrook also appeared in series such as 'ER' and 'The Bold Ones,' showcasing his range. He remained active on stage and screen until his passing at age 95 in 2021.

Born in Puerto Rico on February 17, 1928, Marta Romero first gained attention for her singing performances before making her mark as an actress on film, television, and stage. Her charismatic presence and dynamic talent made her a beloved figure in Latin American entertainment. She released musical recordings that showcased her vocal range and received critical acclaim for her cultural contributions. Romero influenced future generations of performers through her dedication and artistry. She passed away in 2013, leaving a lasting legacy in both film and music.

Born in 1929 in Truro, England, Patricia Routledge trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art before rising to prominence on the West End stage. She won an Olivier Award for her performances in musical theater and released several recordings showcasing her singing talents. Routledge achieved widespread fame for her portrayal of Hyacinth Bucket in the BBC sitcom "Keeping Up Appearances," earning critical acclaim for her comic timing. With a career spanning over six decades, she remains celebrated for her versatility across stage, screen, and radio.

Born in 1931 in Prague, Jiřina Jirásková trained at the Academy of Performing Arts before rising to prominence on the Czechoslovak stage. She starred in numerous film and television productions, earning acclaim for her dramatic depth and musical talent. Jirásková’s performances in classic plays and musicals showcased her strong vocals and acting range. Over a career spanning six decades, she became one of the Czech Republic’s most beloved performers. She passed away in 2013, leaving an enduring legacy in Central European arts.

Born on February 17, 1934, Alan Bates trained at London's Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and emerged as a leading figure in British theater. He garnered critical acclaim for his roles in West End productions and on Broadway, earning a Tony Award for his performance in 'The Norman Conquests.' In film, Bates delivered standout performances in 'Women in Love' (BAFTA winner), 'The Fixer' (Academy Award nomination), and 'An Unmarried Woman.' He also appeared in television dramas and continued to challenge himself with complex characters throughout his career. Known for his magnetic stage presence and emotional depth, Bates remains a celebrated icon of 20th-century acting.