August 29

Jean Hagen was born Jean Shirley Verhagen in Chicago in 1923 and began performing on Broadway in the 1940s. She made her film debut in 1951 and quickly gained attention for her wit and charm. Her breakout role came as the loud-mouthed silent film actress Lina Lamont in "Singin' in the Rain" (1952), earning her an Academy Award nomination. Hagen later starred in the popular television series "Make Room for Daddy," receiving an Emmy nod for her performance. Known for her comedic timing and distinctive voice, she became a beloved character actress. She continued to work in film and television until her untimely death from throat cancer in 1977.

Ingrid Bergman was born in 1915 in Stockholm, Sweden, and rose to fame in Hollywood with her role in Casablanca (1942). Her natural acting style and luminous presence earned her three Academy Awards for performances in Gaslight, Anastasia, and Murder on the Orient Express. After a highly publicized affair with director Roberto Rossellini, she returned to Europe and starred in influential Italian neorealist films. She later resumed her Hollywood career, balancing film, stage, and television roles with critical acclaim. Bergman's talent shattered stereotypes about female beauty in cinema and inspired generations of actors. She passed away in 1982, remembered as one of the greatest actresses of the 20th century.

Evelyn Ankers (1918–1985) was a British-American actress who became one of the era's most recognizable horror heroines. Born in Chile to British parents and raised in England, she moved to Hollywood in the late 1930s and signed with Universal Studios. Over her career, she appeared in more than twenty feature films, including The Wolf Man (1941) and The Ghost of Frankenstein (1942). Her haunting screen presence and distinctive voice earned her the nickname Queen of the Screamers. After retiring in the early 1950s, she lived quietly away from the spotlight. Her performances continue to influence horror cinema and inspire modern actresses in the genre.

Archie Campbell (1914–1987) was an American comedian, actor, and screenwriter celebrated for his folksy humor and musical performances. He gained national fame as a cast member of The Andy Griffith Show, delivering memorable characters and skits that blended comedy with country charm. Campbell wrote and starred in multiple television episodes, showcasing his talents both in front of and behind the camera. His signature catchphrase, That's good! That's good!, became part of American pop culture. Over his career, he appeared in films, radio programs, and live performance tours, influencing generations of comedic actors. Campbell's warmth and wit have left a lasting legacy in American entertainment.

Lee Marvin (1924–1987) was an American actor known for his gravelly voice and rugged screen presence. After serving in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II, he turned to acting in the 1950s and became typecast as hard-boiled characters. Marvin won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in Cat Ballou (1965), where he showcased unexpected comic timing. Over his four-decade career, he appeared in classics such as The Dirty Dozen (1967), Point Blank (1967), and The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962). Beyond film, he released a country music single and made notable television appearances. His legacy endures as one of Hollywood's most iconic tough characters.

Shelagh Fraser (1922–2000) was an English stage, film, and television actress celebrated for her warm on-screen presence. After training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, she enjoyed a versatile career with performances in British classics like The Forsyte Saga and Doctor Who. Fraser achieved lasting fame for her portrayal of Aunt Beru Lars in Star Wars (1977), endearing her to a global audience. She also appeared in films such as Scrooge (1970) and featured in radio dramatizations. Throughout her five-decade career, Fraser was praised for her emotional depth and professionalism. Her contributions to science fiction and British drama remain fondly remembered by fans.

Francisco 'Paco' Rabal was born in 1926 in Águilas, Spain, and became one of Europe's most respected film actors. His wide-ranging career spanned more than four decades, during which he appeared in over 200 films and many stage productions. Rabal collaborated with renowned directors such as Luis Buñuel and Carlos Saura, delivering unforgettable performances in both art-house and popular cinema. He also took on roles as a director and screenwriter, demonstrating his multifaceted talent behind the camera. His work earned him critical acclaim at international film festivals, including awards and nominations at Cannes and Venice. Rabal's commanding presence and emotional depth made him a beloved figure in Spanish-language cinema. He passed away on August 29, 2001, leaving behind a rich legacy of cinematic achievements that continue to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike.

Born in 1953, Geoffrey Perkins began his career as a comedic actor before transitioning to writing and production. As Head of BBC Radio Comedy, he oversaw landmark programs such as The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy and Spitting Image. He co-created and produced the award-winning sitcom Father Ted, earning critical acclaim. In 2000, he founded an independent production company that developed series for television and film. Perkins had a keen talent for nurturing comedic voices and launching new talent. His influence on British humor spanned more than three decades, and he is remembered as a pioneering figure in radio and television comedy.

Junpei Takiguchi began his performing career in theater before becoming a prolific voice actor in the 1960s. He lent his voice to a wide range of characters in anime series, tokusatsu shows, and video games, often portraying both hero and villain roles. His memorable performances include supporting and lead roles that showcased his depth and range. Over five decades, he contributed to classic series and became a respected mentor to younger voice talents. Takiguchi's work helped define the golden age of Japanese animation. He remained active in the industry until his death in 2011, leaving behind a legacy celebrated by fans and colleagues alike.

Gene Wilder (1933–2016) was a beloved American actor, screenwriter, director, and author known for his charismatic comedic performances. He rose to fame collaborating with Mel Brooks in classics like 'The Producers' and 'Blazing Saddles.' Wilder’s iconic portrayal of Willy Wonka in 'Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory' remains a touchstone of family cinema. He also wrote and directed films, and authored memoirs reflecting on his life and career. His wit, warmth, and versatility made him a cherished figure in film and theater.

Paul Taylor (1930–2018) was a pioneering American choreographer who founded the Paul Taylor Dance Company. His innovative works blended athleticism, grace, and theatrical storytelling. Taylor created over 150 dance pieces, including classics like 'Esplanade' and 'Aureole,' influencing the course of contemporary dance. He toured extensively, bringing modern dance to audiences worldwide. Awarded the Kennedy Center Honors and the National Medal of Arts, Taylor’s legacy endures through his company and choreographic masterpieces.

Ed Asner (1929–2021) was an acclaimed American actor celebrated for his versatile performances on stage and screen. He gained fame as Lou Grant on 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show' and its dramatic spin-off 'Lou Grant,' earning multiple Emmy Awards. Asner also lent his voice to the character Carl Fredricksen in Pixar’s 'Up.' A former president of the Screen Actors Guild, he was a passionate advocate for actors’ rights and social causes. His enduring career spanned over six decades, leaving an indelible mark on television and film.