February 21

Sacha Guitry was a Russian-French actor, director, and playwright who made significant contributions to theatre and film in the early 20th century. Born into a theatrical family in Saint Petersburg in 1885, he moved to France and wrote over 120 plays known for their wit and elegance. He directed and starred in numerous films that showcased his narrative and performance skills. Guitry's works often explored themes of love, society, and the nature of art, earning him widespread acclaim. He collaborated with leading actors and theatrical companies of his time, solidifying his reputation in French cultural life. His influence is still felt in modern theatre and cinema, with many of his plays regularly revived on stage.

Celia Lovsky was born in Austria and began her acting career on European stages before emigrating to the United States in the 1940s. She became known for her strong supporting roles in films by directors such as Orson Welles and Alfred Hitchcock. In the 1960s, she made memorable appearances on television, including the role of T'Pau in Star Trek's original series. Her career spanned over four decades, showcasing her versatility in both dramatic and genre work. Beyond acting, she was respected as a mentor to younger performers, guiding many through the transition from stage to screen. She remained active in the industry until her death in 1979.

Jeanne Aubert rose to fame in Parisian music halls and operetta stages during the 1920s. She transitioned to film in the early sound era, appearing in both French and American productions. Her charming stage presence and clear soprano voice made her a popular headliner at venues like the Moulin Rouge. In Hollywood, she co-starred in musical comedies and worked with major studios of the time. After returning to France, she continued performing in cabarets and revues. Her longevity in entertainment extended into radio broadcasts and touring shows until the 1970s.

Arline Judge began her career in vaudeville and musical theater before signing with Hollywood studios. She appeared in comedies and musical films throughout the 1930s and 1940s, where her charm and singing earned her supporting roles. Judge recorded songs and performed on radio broadcasts, showcasing her versatility as an entertainer. She attracted public interest with her four marriages and dynamic personality. Later in her career, she transitioned to television and stage performances. Arline Judge remains remembered as a vibrant presence in Golden Age Hollywood.

Zachary Scott was born in Austin, Texas, and began his stage career before signing with Warner Bros. He gained acclaim for his role as the charming but sinister Dimitrios in The Mask of Dimitrios (1944). Scott became known for playing sophisticated antagonists in films like Mildred Pierce (1945) and The Southerner (1945). His charismatic presence and smooth delivery made him a standout in film noir and drama. In later years, he appeared on Broadway and television, expanding his repertoire. Scott's career was cut short by his death in 1965, but his memorable performances continue to resonate.

Ann Sheridan was born in Denton, Texas, and discovered by Warner Bros talent scouts in the 1930s. She rose to fame with roles in Angels with Dirty Faces (1938) and Kings Row (1942), displaying both dramatic range and comedic timing. Sheridan earned her nickname 'Oomph Girl' from exhibitors who praised her appeal and box office draw. She starred alongside leading actors like James Cagney and Humphrey Bogart, becoming one of Warner Bros' top stars. Beyond film, she appeared on radio and television, and entertained troops during World War II. Sheridan's enduring charm and talent have secured her legacy in Hollywood's Golden Age.

Lucille Bremer was born in Amsterdam, New York, and trained as a dancer with George Balanchine's American Ballet. She signed with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer and made her film debut in Yolanda and the Thief (1945) alongside Fred Astaire. Bremer's graceful dance style and screen presence earned her roles in Ziegfeld Follies (1946) and Down to Earth (1947). After marrying Paris businessman Robert de Miranda, she retired from Hollywood and settled in France. Later in life, she devoted herself to painting and teaching dance. Bremer's contributions to film and ballet continue to be celebrated by enthusiasts of Golden Age musicals.

Roberto Gómez Bolaños, known by his stage name Chespirito, was a Mexican actor, comedian, and writer. He created some of the most popular Latin American TV characters, notably El Chavo del Ocho and El Chapulín Colorado. He started his career as a cartoonist and advertising copywriter before moving into television. His shows aired in over 20 countries and were translated into multiple languages. He wrote scripts, directed, and produced his series, becoming a pioneer of Spanish-language comedy. He remained active in entertainment and philanthropy throughout his life. He is regarded as one of the most influential comedic minds in Latin America.

Rue McClanahan was an American actress whose career spanned stage, film, and television. She gained widespread fame for portraying the vivacious Blanche Devereaux on The Golden Girls. Prior to that, she appeared on the sitcom Maude as Vivian Harmon. McClanahan won an Emmy Award in 1987 for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series. She was a member of the renowned Actors Studio and performed in numerous Broadway productions. Her warm comedic style and memorable performances made her a beloved television icon. She remained active in charity work and veterans' causes until her death.

Mark McManus was a Scottish actor whose career included stage, film, and television roles. He achieved international fame starring as DCI Jim Taggart in the crime drama Taggart from 1983 to 1994. Born in Hamilton, Scotland, he studied drama before appearing in various British TV shows and films. McManus also appeared in Highlander: Special Edition and the film Comfort and Joy. His portrayal of the tough yet compassionate detective made Taggart one of Britain's longest-running series. He received posthumous acclaim when the show continued his character's legacy after his death. McManus's work left a lasting mark on British television crime drama.

Gary Lockwood is an American actor who rose to fame in the 1960s. He portrayed astronaut Dr. Frank Poole in Stanley Kubrick's classic sci-fi film 2001: A Space Odyssey. Lockwood also guest-starred as Lieutenant Commander Gary Mitchell in the Star Trek episode 'Where No Man Has Gone Before'. His film credits include The Great Race, The Magic Sword, and Female on the Beach. On television, he appeared in series such as The Outer Limits, Mannix, and Bonanza. Lockwood's versatility allowed him to work across genres from drama to science fiction. He continues to make occasional appearances and remains a cult favorite among genre fans.

Margarethe von Trotta was born in Berlin and began her career as an actress before transitioning to directing and screenwriting. She emerged as a leading figure in the New German Cinema movement alongside directors like Rainer Werner Fassbinder. Her films, including "The Lost Honor of Katharina Blum" and "Rosa Luxemburg," focus on strong female characters and political themes. She won the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival for "The Lost Honor of Katharina Blum" and received numerous other international awards. Known for her thoughtful storytelling and feminist viewpoints, von Trotta has influenced generations of women filmmakers. In addition to feature films, she has directed television productions and documentaries. She continues to be active in film festivals and cultural discourse.