November 24

Born in 1857 in Georgia, Lado Aleksi-Meskhishvili emerged as a leading figure in the development of Georgian theater. He excelled both as an actor and director, founding theater troupes that brought contemporary techniques to the stage. His innovative productions blended traditional folklore with modern dramatic storytelling. Aleksi-Meskhishvili’s leadership and vision helped professionalize theatrical arts in the Caucasus. He remains celebrated for his enduring impact on Georgian cultural identity.

Ruth Chatterton (1892–1961) was a prominent American stage and screen actress of the 1920s and 1930s. She earned Academy Award nominations for her performances in films such as 'Madame X' and 'Dodsworth'. Chatterton was one of the first Hollywood actresses to demand creative control and high salaries. Beyond acting, she was an accomplished pilot and racecar driver, breaking gender barriers in aviation. Her pioneering spirit and memorable performances left a lasting mark on early American cinema.

George Raft was born in 1901 in New York City and began his career as a stage dancer in the 1920s. He transitioned to Hollywood in 1930, making a memorable debut in the crime drama "Scarface." Over his five-decade career, Raft became synonymous with suave gangsters, starring in films such as "Each Dawn I Die" and "They Drive by Night." His background as a dancer brought a unique physicality to his performances, influencing the style of screen violence in early cinema. Despite occasional clashes with studio executives over roles, he maintained a loyal fanbase for his charismatic screen presence. Raft's legacy endures in the film noir genre, where his name remains iconic.

Born Monique Andrée Serf in Paris in 1930, Barbara rose to fame in the 1960s with her intimate, melancholic chansons. She wrote and performed classics such as L’Aigle noir and Ma plus belle histoire d’amour, captivating audiences with her poetic lyrics and minimalist piano arrangements. Beyond music, Barbara appeared in films and theater productions, showcasing her versatility as a performer. She was admired for her introspective songwriting, exploring themes of love, loss, and memory. Over her career, she released numerous albums and received prestigious awards, including the Grand Prix de l’Académie Charles Cros. Barbara’s legacy endures in French music as an icon of chanson française following her death in 1997.

Born in 1940, James Wong began his career writing song lyrics for local productions. He collaborated with top composers and produced enduring hits that defined 1970s and 1980s Cantonese pop music. Wong also hosted television variety shows and appeared in films, showcasing his versatility as a performer. His witty wordplay and poetic style won him critical acclaim and a devoted fan base. Over his career, he penned more than 2,000 song lyrics and earned numerous awards for songwriting. He mentored younger artists and played a pivotal role in popularizing Cantopop nationwide. Wong's legacy continues to influence Hong Kong's music and entertainment industries long after his death in 2004.

Born in 1932, Pat Morita overcame childhood polio to pursue a career in entertainment. He gained fame playing Arnold on Happy Days before achieving worldwide recognition as Mr. Miyagi in 1984's The Karate Kid. His performance earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Morita blended comedy and drama in his roles and became a beloved figure in popular culture. He appeared in film, television, and voice acting roles over a career spanning four decades. His mentorship of his Karate Kid co-stars mirrored his on-screen persona. Morita's warmth, humor, and depth left a lasting impact on audiences before his death in 2005.

June Keithley began her career as a film and television actress in the Philippines, captivating audiences with her performances. She later transitioned into broadcast journalism, becoming a respected news anchor and radio personality. During pivotal moments in Philippine history, her reporting provided a trusted voice to listeners nationwide. Her dedication to truthful reporting and her pioneering presence as a female broadcaster inspired a generation of journalists. Keithley's legacy endures through her contributions to both the arts and the media.

Matti Ranin became a beloved figure in Finnish performing arts with his diverse roles. He captivated audiences on stage with memorable theatrical performances at the Finnish National Theatre. On screen, he appeared in numerous classic Finnish films and popular television series. His rich voice lent itself to radio dramas and animated works, showcasing his versatility. Ranin's enduring presence made him a respected mentor for younger generations of actors.

Florence Henderson (1934–2016) was an American actress and singer who became a cultural icon as the matriarch Carol Brady in the hit television series 'The Brady Bunch.' Her warm presence and comic timing endeared her to audiences during the show's original run and in its numerous spinoffs. Prior to television, Henderson launched her career on Broadway, starring in musicals like 'Fanny' and 'The Everly Brothers Show.' She also hosted talk shows and appeared on reality programs, showcasing her versatility as a performer and host. Henderson used her celebrity to support charitable causes, including children's health and education initiatives. Her autobiography 'Life Is Not a Stage' offered an intimate look at her journey through show business. Even after her Brady Bunch fame, she continued to make guest appearances on popular TV shows and toured nationally with musical revues. Henderson's legacy endures through her memorable performances and her contributions to American television history.

Goo Hara (1991–2019) was a South Korean singer and actress who rose to fame as a member of the acclaimed girl group KARA. Known for her energetic stage presence and charismatic performances, she contributed to hits that propelled KARA to international success. Alongside her music career, Goo Hara pursued acting, appearing in television dramas and variety shows that showcased her vibrant personality. She debuted as a solo artist with her single 'Choco Chip Cookies,' earning praise for her vocal talent. Goo was also admired for her fashion sense and maintained a strong connection with fans through social media. Her untimely passing sparked conversations about mental health awareness in the entertainment industry. Fans and colleagues remember her warmth, dedication to her craft, and the impact she had in expanding the global reach of K-pop. Her musical legacy continues to inspire aspiring artists.

Helen Gallagher (1926–2024) enjoyed a remarkable career in musical theatre and television. She made her Broadway debut in the 1940s and starred in hit shows such as Top Banana, Wish You Were Here, and the Tony-winning Carnival!, earning the Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical in 1962. In the 1970s, she transitioned to television with a memorable role on the soap opera Ryan’s Hope, earning Daytime Emmy nominations. Her versatile talents as an actress, singer, and dancer endeared her to audiences for over seven decades. Gallagher’s dedication to her craft and groundbreaking performances left an indelible mark on American theatre.