March 06

Ivor Novello was born in 1893 in Cardiff, Wales, as David Ivor Davies. He gained fame as a gifted composer and songwriter during the early 20th century, writing hits such as "Keep the Home Fires Burning." Novello also achieved success as a stage and film actor, starring in British musicals and dramas. His charming personality and musical talents made him one of the most popular entertainers of his era. After World War I, he continued to compose for the stage, creating enduring works like the musical "King's Rhapsody." Novello's legacy lives on through the annual Ivor Novello Awards, established in 1955 to honor excellence in songwriting and composing.

George Formby was born in 1904 in Wigan, England, into a family of music hall performers. He developed a unique comic style, playing the banjolele and singing humorous songs. Formby became one of Britain's most popular entertainers in the 1930s and 1940s with films like "No Limit" and hit songs such as "When I'm Cleaning Windows." His cheerful persona and catchy tunes brought joy during the difficult wartime years. Formby also starred in several films and served as a presenter for the Entertainments National Service Association (ENSA). He passed away in 1961, leaving a legacy as a beloved figure in British entertainment.

Margaret Dumont was an American stage and screen actress noted for her comic performances with the Marx Brothers. She began her career in New York City musical productions before transitioning to Hollywood films in the 1920s. Dumont earned a reputation as the quintessential straight woman, appearing in classics such as Duck Soup and A Night at the Opera. Her dignified persona and impeccable timing made her an indispensable foil to comedic chaos. Colleagues often referred to her as the 'Fifth Marx Brother' for her unwavering professionalism and chemistry with the troupe.

Nelson Eddy was an American singer and actor celebrated for his rich baritone voice and on-screen chemistry with soprano Jeanette MacDonald. He rose to fame starring in a series of musical films such as Naughty Marietta and Rose-Marie. Eddy's performances combined operatic technique with Hollywood glamour, making him one of the era's top box-office draws. Beyond film, he toured extensively in concert halls and recorded numerous successful albums. His dramatic acting and vocal artistry left a lasting legacy on American musical cinema. Eddy continued to perform until shortly before his untimely death in 1967.

William Hopper was an American actor who gained fame portraying Paul Drake on the long-running television series Perry Mason. The son of actress Hedda Hopper, he initially pursued engineering before turning to acting in the 1930s. Hopper appeared in films such as The Woman in the Window and The Big Sleep before landing his breakthrough TV role in 1957. His portrayal of the charming and resourceful detective assistant endeared him to audiences for nine seasons. Outside of acting, he was an avid amateur pilot and aviation enthusiast. Hopper retired from acting in 1966 and passed away four years later, leaving a legacy as one of television's most recognizable supporting players.

Henry Wilcoxon (1905–1984) was a Dominican-American actor and producer who became a familiar face in Hollywood epics. Born in Roseau, Dominica, he moved to England and later to the United States, where he became a close collaborator of director Cecil B. DeMille. Wilcoxon appeared in classic films such as The Sign of the Cross (1932), Cleopatra (1934), and The Crusades (1935), and portrayed Eleazar in The Ten Commandments (1956). He also produced several films and supported younger actors, including Charlton Heston. Wilcoxon's commanding presence and production work left a lasting mark on mid-20th-century cinema.

Melina Mercouri was born in Athens in 1920 and rose to international stardom through her performances in films such as 'Never on Sunday', which earned her a Golden Globe. As Minister of Culture from 1981 to 1989, she introduced landmark cultural policies and proposed the European Capital of Culture program. She was a tireless advocate for the return of the Parthenon Marbles and the revitalization of Greek cinema and theater. Mercouri also had a successful career as a singer and author, writing passionately about art and democracy. Her charismatic leadership and creative vision left a lasting impact on Greece's cultural identity. She passed away from cancer in 1994, leaving behind a powerful legacy.

John Colicos was born in 1928 in Toronto and honed his craft at the prestigious Stratford Festival. He achieved early success on stage before transitioning to film and television roles. Colicos became a cult figure for his portrayal of the Klingon leader Kor in Star Trek: The Original Series and again in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. His career spanned over four decades, with performances in classic series and soaps that showcased his versatility. Renowned for his deep voice and intense performances, he received multiple awards and accolades. Colicos continued acting until his death in 2000, leaving a memorable mark on genre television.

Frances Dee was born in 1909 in Los Angeles and began her acting career in the late 1920s silent era. She rose to prominence after signing with RKO Pictures, delivering acclaimed performances alongside actors like Leslie Howard and Ronald Colman. Dee starred in Of Human Bondage (1934) and Arrowsmith (1931), earning praise for her nuanced portrayals. She balanced leading and supporting roles in dramas, comedies, and romances throughout the 1930s and 1940s. In 1933, she married actor Joel McCrea, with whom she shared a lifelong partnership. Dee retired from the screen in the 1940s but remained a beloved figure in Hollywood history until her passing in 2004.

Teresa Wright was born in Manhattan in 1918 and made her stage debut at age 17. She rose to fame with acclaimed roles in The Little Foxes and Alfred Hitchcock's Shadow of a Doubt. In 1942, Wright won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for Mrs. Miniver and received three Oscar nominations in her career. She was praised for her naturalistic acting style and later returned to the stage and television dramas. Wright turned down a long-term studio contract to maintain her artistic independence. She passed away on March 6, 2005, leaving behind a legacy of memorable classic film performances.

Francis Magalona, often known as Francis M, was a groundbreaking Filipino rapper, producer, and actor born in 1964. He pioneered the Pinoy hip hop movement with his socially conscious lyrics and innovative sound, releasing multi-platinum albums that became anthems for a generation. As an actor, Magalona appeared in both film and television, showcasing his charismatic presence across media. His work celebrated Filipino identity and nationalism, earning him the title of the 'Master Rapper.' Beyond performing, he mentored emerging artists and produced tracks that helped shape the local music industry. Magalona passed away in 2009, but his influence continues to inspire new generations of Filipino musicians and entertainers.

Born in 1921, MacRae moved to the United States early in her career to star in musical theater. She appeared in Broadway productions such as 'Sadie Thompson' and showcased her talents in song and dance. On television, she was known for her guest roles and variety show appearances, including a stint on 'The Honeymooners' sketches. Married to actor Gordon MacRae, she balanced a family life with a career spanning over five decades. Her versatility and stage presence made her a beloved figure in both live theater and television entertainment.