November 14

Born in 1650 in Hereford, Nell Gwyn rose from humble beginnings selling oranges at the Drury Lane Theatre to become a popular actress known for her comedic talent. She captivated London audiences and caught the eye of King Charles II around 1670, becoming his beloved mistress. Gwyn bore the king two sons and was noted for her wit, charm, and charitable generosity. After Charles’s death, she retired to a quiet life and died in 1687. Her colourful story and enduring popularity made her a legendary figure of the Restoration era.

Johnny Mack Brown first gained fame as a standout halfback for the University of Alabama, scoring the winning touchdown in the 1926 Rose Bowl. His athletic success caught the attention of Hollywood and led to a film career in the late 1920s. Brown became a beloved leading man in B-Western movies, often playing heroic cowboys on the silver screen. In addition to acting, he showcased his singing talent in several film productions, delighting audiences with his versatile performances. Over four decades, he appeared in more than 120 films, earning a loyal fan base. Brown’s transition from sports hero to screen icon illustrates his enduring appeal and versatility.

Nikitas Platis enjoyed a versatile career in Greek cinema spanning several decades. He began as a stage actor before transitioning to film, appearing in numerous dramas and comedies. Platis also honed his skills behind the camera as a cinematographer, crafting the visual tone of groundbreaking productions. His dual talents made him a respected figure among directors and peers alike. Throughout his career, he worked on projects that helped define Greek film during a period of cultural growth. Platis’s artistic vision and adaptability left a lasting impression on the industry.

Born in 1928, Tony Richardson became a pioneering director of the British New Wave, winning an Academy Award for Best Director for Tom Jones. He co-founded the influential Woodfall Film Productions, shaping socially conscious cinema in the 1960s. Richardson’s diverse career spanned stage, television, and feature films, including notable works like A Taste of Honey and The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner. He was known for his collaborative spirit and talent for extracting naturalistic performances from actors. Richardson’s innovative style left a lasting mark on modern filmmaking, blending realism with bold storytelling. He passed away in 1991, leaving behind a rich cinematic legacy.

Tom Villard broke through with his scene-stealing role in Grease 2 and went on to appear in dozens of TV series, films, and stage productions. His credits include guest spots on Seinfeld, Star Trek: Voyager, and Quantum Leap. Villard was praised for his comedic timing and versatility, bringing depth to every character he played. Off-screen, he became one of the first actors to publicly disclose an AIDS diagnosis and advocated for destigmatizing the disease. His courage and openness provided hope and visibility during the height of the AIDS crisis. Villard passed away in 1994 at the age of 40.

Charlotte Coleman captured audiences with her portrayal of dynamic characters, most notably in the TV adaptation of Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit and the hit film Four Weddings and a Funeral. She earned a BAFTA nomination for her nuanced performance and was praised for her comedic talent and emotional depth. Coleman’s versatility led to roles on stage and screen throughout the 1980s and 1990s, showcasing her range from drama to comedy. Her untimely death in 2001 from an asthma attack at age 33 shocked the entertainment community. Coleman is remembered for her bright spirit and impactful performances.

Eddie Bracken (February 7, 1915 – November 14, 2002) was an American actor and comedian known for his boy-next-door charm. He rose to prominence in the 1940s with memorable roles in films such as Hold That Ghost and The Miracle of Morgan's Creek. Bracken's collaborations with director Preston Sturges showcased his comedic timing and endearing persona. He enjoyed a versatile career spanning Broadway, film, and television, including a cameo in Ferris Bueller's Day Off. His work earned him a place among Hollywood's beloved character actors.

Gene Anthony Ray (1962 – November 14, 2003) was an American performer whose energetic dancing and soulful singing won audiences in the 1980 film Fame. Discovered on the streets of New York City, he reprised his role as Leroy on the television adaptation, becoming a cultural icon for young artists. Ray also worked as a choreographer and appeared in stage productions. Despite later personal struggles, his work on Fame continues to inspire dancers around the world. He remains celebrated for his raw talent and charismatic presence.

Esin Afşar (1936 – November 14, 2011) was a versatile performer who brought Turkish folk songs to international audiences. Born in Italy and educated at the Ankara State Conservatory, she released several successful albums blending traditional melodies with modern arrangements. Afşar also appeared in Turkish films and television programs, showcasing her acting talent. She taught music and mentored young artists later in her career. Her artistic legacy continues to inspire lovers of folk and world music.

Warren Mitchell (1926–2015) achieved fame as the sharp-tongued Alf Garnett in the BBC comedy Till Death Us Do Part, a role that became iconic in British television history. He won a Tony Award for his performance in Death of a Salesman on Broadway and earned a BAFTA nomination for his TV work. Born in London, he trained at RADA before joining the Royal Shakespeare Company, showcasing versatility across comedy and drama. Mitchell also wrote plays and screenplays, demonstrating a talent for both acting and writing. His career spanned stage, film, and television, and he was celebrated for his depth of character and comedic timing.

Des O'Connor (1932–2020) enjoyed a six-decade career as a stand-up comedian, singer, and television presenter, hosting shows like The Des O'Connor Show and Countdown. His smooth singing voice and genial interview style endeared him to audiences across the UK. O'Connor also released several successful albums, blending humor with musical talent. He won multiple awards for his television work and was celebrated for making guests feel at ease on his chat shows. His friendly persona and quick humor made him a national treasure until his passing at age 88.