February 29

Born in Vienna in 1724, Eva Marie Veigel received early training in ballet and folk dance. She toured across Europe before settling in London around 1746, where she became a star at Drury Lane Theatre. Veigel married famous actor David Garrick and balanced her career with her social role in his household. Known for her refined technique and expressive style, she influenced English ballet in the mid-18th century. She retired from the stage in 1773 but continued to teach dance and advise performers. Veigel lived to the age of 98, passing away in 1822, and left a legacy as one of the era’s most admired dancers.

William A. Wellman was an American actor turned filmmaker who made a significant mark on early Hollywood. He directed the first film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture, "Wings" (1927). His career spanned silent films and talkies, showcasing versatility in genres like war, crime, and adventure. Wellman also acted, wrote, and produced, earning a reputation for realistic action sequences. With over 80 films to his credit, he helped shape the language of American cinema. His work influenced generations of directors exploring epic storytelling.

Arthur Franz was born in 1920 and began his acting career after serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He gained recognition for supporting roles in films such as The Caine Mutiny (1954) and Invaders from Mars (1953). Franz transitioned seamlessly to television, guest-starring on popular series like Alfred Hitchcock Presents and The Twilight Zone. Known for his versatile presence and reliable performances, he enjoyed a steady career spanning four decades. He passed away in 2006, remembered as a consummate professional and beloved character actor.

Born in 1920, James Mitchell launched his career as a principal dancer on Broadway, starring in productions such as The King and I and My Fair Lady. His magnetic stage presence led to film roles and eventually to television, where he achieved lasting fame as Palmer Cortlandt on the daytime drama All My Children. Mitchell’s dual talents in dance and acting set him apart in mid-century American entertainment. Over a career spanning more than six decades, he earned acclaim for his versatility and dedication to his craft. He died in 2010, leaving behind a legacy of performance excellence.

Born Simone Renée Roussel in 1920, Michèle Morgan became one of France’s most beloved film stars, acclaimed for her performances in Port of Shadows (1938) and La Symphonie Pastorale (1946), which won her the Best Actress award at Cannes. After working in Hollywood post-World War II, she returned to European cinema, earning international honors for her talent and elegance. Morgan also showcased her musical gifts in select film and stage projects. Over a career spanning seven decades, she remained a symbol of grace and artistic integrity. She passed away in 2016, honored as a legend of French cinema.

Born in 1928, Joss Ackland trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art before embarking on a prolific career in repertory theater. He gained international recognition with roles in The Italian Job (1969), The Hunt for Red October (1990), and Lethal Weapon 2 (1989). Ackland also earned acclaim on television, appearing in series such as Tales of the Unexpected and EastEnders. His versatility and commanding presence made him a sought-after character actor. In later years, he received an honorary doctorate for his contributions to drama. He passed away in 2023, celebrated as one of Britain’s most enduring talents.

Born Annie Banks in Houston, Tempest Storm rose to fame in the 1950s as a leading burlesque performer in Las Vegas. Her signature routines and dramatic costumes earned her the title "The Queen Of Exotic Dancers" and appearances in film and television. She performed for over six decades, touring internationally and inspiring generations of performers. Storm wrote an autobiography and was inducted into multiple burlesque halls of fame for her contributions to the art form. She passed away in 2021, leaving behind a legacy of glamour and showmanship.

Alex Rocco (1936–2015) was an American actor known for his distinctive voice and on-screen presence. He gained fame for his role as Moe Greene in the classic film "The Godfather" (1972). Rocco appeared in numerous television series including "The Facts of Life," "NYPD Blue," and "The Sopranos." Throughout his career, he won two Emmy Awards and was nominated for a Golden Globe. His versatility and charisma made him a memorable character actor in both film and television.

Dennis Farina (1944–2013) was an American actor and former Chicago police officer known for his tough-guy roles. He joined the Chicago Police Department in 1967 and worked undercover before retiring as a detective sergeant. Farina transitioned to acting, making his film debut in "Thief" (1981) and gaining recognition in "Crime Story" (1986–1988). He starred as Lieutenant Joe Fontana in "Law & Order" from 2004 to 2006 and appeared in numerous films including "Get Shorty" and "Snatch." His real-life law enforcement background lent authenticity to his performances and made him a popular figure in crime dramas.

Phyllis Frelich (1944–2014) was an American actress celebrated for her groundbreaking work as a Deaf performer. She co-starred in the Tony Award–winning Broadway play "Children of a Lesser God" in 1980, becoming the first Deaf actor to win a Tony Award in 1981. Frelich appeared in film and television roles that raised awareness of Deaf culture. She co-founded the National Theatre of the Deaf and worked as an advocate for accessibility in the arts. Her career paved the way for future generations of Deaf actors.

Saeed Poursamimi was born in 1944 in Tehran, Iran, and developed a passion for acting at a young age. He became one of Iran's most respected performers, known for both dramatic and comedic roles. Poursamimi has appeared in numerous films and television series, earning accolades at national festivals. He is particularly praised for his ability to bring depth and nuance to every character he portrays. Beyond the screen, he has contributed to the development of Iranian theater and inspired a new generation of actors.

Knut Agnred was born in 1956 in Gothenburg, Sweden, and rose to fame in the early 1980s. He joined the comedy-musical troupe Galenskaparna och After Shave, contributing memorable performances in television shows such as Macken and films like Leif. As both a vocalist and a comedic actor, Agnred blended music and humor in stage revues and recordings. His charismatic presence and timing made him a fan favorite, and he played a key role in the group's long-running theater productions. Beyond his work with the troupe, he has released solo music and appeared in various Swedish television programs, cementing his status as a versatile entertainer.