Once Upon A Time In Hollywood: Forgotten Celebrities
Cora Sue Collins | 04/19/1927 | 94
Cora Sue Collins is a former child star who appeared in a number of movies during the Golden Years of Hollywood. Born in Beckley, West Virginia, she and her family later moved to Los Angeles, where she debuted in Hollywood at the age of five in the movie The Unexpected Father. Her reported income in 1934 was $250 per week, which is equivalent to $4,836 today.
Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, Collins starred in prolific films, including Anna Karenina, Queen Christina, Heaven Too, and All This. At first, she was cast as Becky Thatcher in 1938’s The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, but her part was changed to Amy Lawrence instead because she was considered too tall for the former role. Her last film appearance was in the year 1945 when she decided to retire from the entertainment scene at the age of 18. Collins has 47 acting credits to her name.
Tippi Hedren | 01/19/1930 | 91
Tippi Hedren is a Hollywood actress best known for her appearances in Alfred Hitchcock’s Marnie and The Birds. She is also widely known for her active involvement in the animal rescue organization at Shambala Preserve, an 80-acre wildlife sanctuary that she established in the early 1980s.
As a teenager, Hedren took part in modeling in some department store fashion shows, and at 18 years old, she hired a moving company to relocate to New York to build her career. During this time, she appeared on several covers of commercials, print ads, and magazines. When Hitchcock saw her on a commercial for a diet drink, he contacted her to ask if she would want to work on his film projects. From there, Hedren made her on-screen debut, and the renowned filmmaker became her acting coach. For her performance in The Birds, the actress received a Golden Globe for New Star of the Year.
Brigitte Bardot | 09/28/1934 | 86
Bridget Bardot was a ballet dancer as a child, and in 1949, she pursued a modeling career. By the following year, at the age of 15, she was featured on the cover of Elle, which captured the attention of director Roger Vadim. At the time, Bardot became one of the very few European actresses who were notable in the US. From 1952 to 1956, she received 17 film credits..
Throughout her impressive career, the actress appeared in more than 40 movies and was nominated for multiple acting awards. She has been well-recognized for her acting, modeling, and her animal rights activism. She retired from the acting industry in 1973, just before her 39th birthday. After her early retirement, she is still seen in the public eye as an animal activist. She established the Brigitte Bardot Foundation and reportedly owned a property in France where she raised horses, donkeys, pigs, and cows.
Barbara Eden | 08/23/1931 | 90
Barbara Eden skyrocketed to fame for her starring role in I Dream of Jeannie, which ran from 1965 to 1970. In the 1950s and 1960s, she appeared in a number of films and TV shows. Her first movie role was the 1956’s Back from Eternity. The following year, she won a role in the television series How to Marry a Millionaire and was also featured in other hit shows, including Gunsmoke, I Love Lucy, and Route 66.
Eight years after her accomplishment in I Dream of Jeannie, Eden portrayed another popular role, Stella Johnson, in the film Harper Valley PTA. The film was adapted into a TV show also starring her, and it aired for two seasons in the early 1980s. She also published two autobiographies, one in 1986 and another in 2011. Until today, Eden continues to make investments in show business. She recently appeared in the reality show Long Island Medium.
Betty White | 01/17/1922 | 99
Betty White’s career started more than 90 years ago in 1930 when she made her debut on radio programming at only eight years old. She found work as a radio personality in Los Angeles before transitioning to television and was hailed “the first lady of game shows” for her long-running work as a panelist. Widely considered as a pioneer of television, she is recognized as the first woman to win a Daytime Emmy Award and the first woman to produce a sitcom.
Aside from these achievements, White is also known for her acting credits in The Golden Girls and The Mary Tyler Moore Show. Even at 99, she’s unstoppable as she continues to receive many projects both in movies and television. Outside of show business, the legendary entertainer is also an animal health advocate who serves animal organizations, such as the African Wildlife Foundation, Los Angeles Zoo Commission, and The Morris Animal Foundation.
Jane Fonda | 12/21/1937 | 83
Jane Fonda entered the entertainment world as a model and appeared on Vogue Magazine’s cover twice. She then shifted her focus to acting after she starred alongside her father in a performance of The Country Girl. In the ’60s, Fonda starred in several films and averaged almost two films per year during her early movie career. These include The Chase and Barbarella. In particular, the 1965 movie Cat Ballou often takes the pinpoint as the big break that launched her into major stardom. The movie received five Oscar nominations and was one of the top-performing films at the box office at the time.
The ’70s are the most acclaimed period for Fonda during her acting career as she received more notable film roles and awards. She sparked a fitness craze by the following decade when she released the Jane Fonda Workout aerobics video. She earned a fortune for this investment as it sold over a million copies worldwide.
Barbara Walters | 09/25/1929 | 91
Author, broadcast journalist, and television personality Barbara Walters has a long-running career spanning six decades. Moreover, she has hosted popular television shows in her impressive career, including The View, 20/20, and ABC Evening News. More importantly, the author began her work as a researcher and writer for The Today Show in 1961 and subsequently became the show’s co-host during the mid-’70s. She was then hailed the first woman to co-host a news program in the US, and in 1976, she also became the first woman to co-anchor an evening news program.
Walters also takes acclaim for her annual Barbara Walters’ 10 Most Fascinating People special and her two books. Walters interviewed many world leaders throughout her career, including Boris Yeltsin, Fidel Castro, Vladimir Putin, Anwar Al Sadat, and Margaret Thatcher. She has also been honored with Overseas Press Club’s highest award, Lowell Thomas Award, and 7 News and Documentary Emmy Awards, among many credits.
John Astin | 03/30/1930 | 91
John Astin became renowned by playing mainly wacky and eccentric characters on television programs over several decades. He is probably most acclaimed for portraying Gomez Addams in the ’60s version of The Addams Family.
After making his Broadway debut and providing his voice to many TV commercials, Astin’s big break came in the 1961 movie West Side Story. With the help of fellow actor Tony Randall, he also began to appear in comedy shows throughout that decade. From 1964 to 1966, he won his most memorable role, Gomez Addams, and subsequently performed the voice work for that same role in the ’90s animated re-make of the show. Outside of The Addams Family, Astin was a regular cast member in other prolific TV series. He had acting credits in the 1967 Batman TV series The Riddler. He also appeared in Murder, She Wrote, National Lampoon’s European Vacation, and Night Court.
Harry Belafonte | 03/01/1927 | 94
Harry Belafonte takes credit for popularizing the Caribbean music style. He is perhaps best known for singing The Banana Boat Song. Since beginning his career in the ’40s, Belafonte appreciates being the first recording artist to sell beyond a million copies of an album. However, he is most proud of his long-running work as a devoted activist.
Belafonte started performing as a singer to pay for his acting classes in New York. Even though he saw himself as an actor, his side hustle as a nightclub singer propelled his stardom when his 1954 Calypso album popularized his Jamaican heritage music and topped the charts. Since then, Belafonte embarked on a lucrative music career that made him a respected international folk music scene. He also left an imprint on the entertainment scene both as a producer and actor. Indeed, the actor is an inspiration to many talents in the entertainment scene today.
Betty Lynn | 08/29/1926 | 94
Betty Lynn is widely known for starring as Thelma Lou in The Andy Griffith Show from 1961 to 1966. She also had recurring roles in Fireside Theatre, Matinee Theatre, and Family Affair. For her movie credits, Lynn starred in Apartment for Peggy and June Bride. In 2004, she garnered a TV Land Legend Award for her work in The Andy Griffith Show.
In 1950, the actress bought a house in Los Angeles with her grandmother and mother. She assumed the off-screen roles of caretaker and breadwinner, and she never even married, although she admitted she was once engaged. By July 2019, she lived in Mount Airy and made monthly appearances at the Andy Griffith Museum in her town, meeting with her fans and signing autographs. Now 94 years old, she still makes an effort to promote her senior show. Unsurprisingly, it wouldn’t take much to gain attention with the kind of reputation she has.
Lee Meriwether | 05/ 27/1935 | 86
Actress and former model Lee Meriwether is also famous as the winner of the 1955 Miss America pageant. She rose to fame as Buddy Ebsen’s secretary Betty Jones in the hit ’70s crime drama Barnaby Jones. The role garnered her an Emmy Award nomination and two Golden Globe award nominations. Meriwether also captivated the audience for her portrayal of Catwoman, replacing actress Julie Newmar in the movie version of Batman in 1966. She also won a recurring role as Ruth Martin on the soap opera All My Children until the show’s end in September 2011.
Meriwether was a “Today Girl” on The Today Show during the mid-’50s. She had her feature film debut in 1959 in 4D Man, starring Robert Lansing. Until today, the 86-year-old actress continues to make investments in television, on stage, feature films, and game voice-overs. She has also made guest appearances on Hawaii Five-0 and Desperate Housewives.
Jane Powell | 04/01/1929 | 92
Jane Powell is an actress and performer who rose to fame for her multiple roles in Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer musicals during the mid-’40s. She started her entertainment work as a singer and traveled to Oregon selling victory bonds. She then transferred to Los Angeles as a teenager and signed a contract with MGM, in which she received supporting roles in musicals including A Date with Judy, Royal Wedding, and Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.
By the late ’50s, Powell’s movie career slowed down, leading her to transition to the theatre. She later starred in more Broadway productions and began touring in various shows. Her later work includes the touring productions of The Sound of Music and My Fair Lady. During the ’60s, she appeared regularly on television and made investments in The Frank Sinatra Show and The Jerry Lewis Show. She retired from the industry in 2004 with her last stage work titled Bounce.
Robert Fuller | 07/ 29/1933 | 88
American actor Robert Fuller earned his college degree from Miami Military Academy. He relocated to Hollywood after finishing school and started booking minor roles in movies right away. However, his pursuit of acting was put on hold when the actor served in the Army during the early ’50s. After returning to the country, he attended the Neighborhood Playhouse to hone his acting skills and then booked prominent roles in various Hollywood productions. He made a name for himself in show business as a character actor, primarily in Western movies. His projects include The Californian, Laramie, and Walker, Texas Ranger.
The actor has retired from the entertainment scene in 2001, but in his long-running career of almost 50 years, he received several awards, such as the Japanese Golden Order of Merit. Fuller and his wife of nineteen years moved from Los Angeles to Texas to raise horses on a ranch in recent news.
Mike Nussbaum | 12/29/1923 | 97
Mike Nussbaum’s on-screen career might not be as tremendous as some of the other actors and performers on this list, but he is relevant in the theatre world and is still very active today. His acting career began in community theater during the ’50s. By the following decade, he saw involvement in a startup professional theatrical community located in Chicago. He appeared in local and national TV commercials and many playwrights David Mamet’s plays both on and off-Broadway. His film credits include House of Games, Men In Black, Field of Dreams, and Fatal Attraction.
As a stage actor, Nussbaum starred in the 2019 production of Hamlet at Chicago Shakespeare Theater. Despite being 97 years old, the veteran actor looks like he doesn’t want to slow down when it comes to his acting work. His most recent project is the 2020 film Tom of Your Life, which is still under production.
Michael Caine | 03/14/1933 | 88
Michael Caine has a long list of credits to his name. Aside from his distinctive South London accent, he has made over 130 movies since he started his career in the early ’50s. The actor remained in the business for almost seven decades, making him a British film icon. Mind you, and he also ranks as one of the highest-grossing box office stars with $7.8 billion in earnings worldwide for all of his movies.
Meanwhile, though Caine has made several great films in the past, with some even earning him accolades and recognitions, his role as Bruce Wayne’s butler Alfred Pennyworth had made a mark. Now, Caine is 88 years old, and he said his 2009 movie Harry Brown would be his last lead role. Do not get him wrong, though; he has no plans to retire, believing the business flees the artist. However, this can mean that Caine is still open to doing more films.
Gladys Knight | 05/28/1944 | 77
Gladys Knight gets credits for being the Empress of Soul. She is one of the most iconic singers in the industry who has ventured into other fields in the business. The hitmaker is a songwriter, actress, businesswoman, and author. Who could forget the hits Midnight Train to Georgia, That’s What Friends, Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me, and more? She had dominated the airwaves from the ’60s to ’80, along with her group Gladys Knight & The Pips.
As a seven-time Grammy award-winner, Knight has recorded two number-one Billboard Hot 100 singles, 11 number-one R&B singles, and six number-one R&B albums. What a feat? The induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Vocal Group of Fame ranked among the 100 Singers of All Time. Knight already made her farewell tour in 2009. However, despite that, she started touring again and even playing gigs. By the look of it, fans may still hear more of Knight’s incredible voice.
Willie Nelson | 08/29/1933 | 88
Thanks to the combined critical and commercial successes of Shotgun Willie, Red Headed Stranger, and Stardust made Willie Nelson an icon of country music. Nelson was also one of the leading figures of outlaw country. However, aside from being a musician, he is also an actor and activist with more than 30 movie credits. The 88-year-old star has also co-authored several books.
Nelson is maybe 88 years old today, but he remains active in the industry. He still plays music and even live-streamed a series of benefit concerts. The singer raised over $700,000 and gave it to people in need to support a restorative justice program. With all the things he does, Nelson is now widely recognized as an American icon. He was inducted in several Hall of Fames, received numerous awards and recognitions, and had a legacy that was hard to surpass or event match.
June Lockhart | 06/25/1925 | 96
June Lockhart used to dominate the small screens in the ’50s and ’60s. She famously portrayed mother roles on the TV series Lassie and Lost in Space. The actress is also known as Dr. Janet Craig on Petticoat Junction.
If her surname rings a bell, she is the daughter of the Broadway star Gene Lockhart and the actress, Kathleen Lockhart. By the looks of it, acting is running in June’s blood. If that is not enough evidence yet, add to that her grandfather, John Coates Lockhart, was dubbed the “concert-singer.” Aside from acting, June also gets credits for being the hostess of the Miss USA Pageant for six years, the Miss Universe Pageant for six years, the Thanksgiving Parade for five years, and the Tournament of Roses Parade for eight years—all on CBS. Today, June is already 96 years old, but she is yet to announce her retirement officially. Her most recent project was lending her voice for Bongee Bear and the Kingdom of Rhythm in 2019.
Dick Van Dyke | 12/13/1925 | 95
Dick Van Dyke is among the most celebrated actors in the industry. He has an extensive career of more than seven decades and has remained active until today. By the looks of it, the entertainment world will forever need someone like Dyke. He is not only an actor. He is a total performer who can make fans laugh as a comedian. The award-winning star is also a writer, singer, and dancer. Dyke does not only confine himself to working in just one platform. He dominated film, TV, and theatre, making him the legendary star he is today.
It looks like no one can dim the degree of light Dyke has. How can they do so? With his five Primetime Emmys, one Tony, and one Grammy award, these things prove there is no one like him in the business. Though he is now 95, Dyke still has a movie coming up, Capture the Flag, which is now in the pre-production process.
Dick Cavett | 11/19/1936 | 84
Dick Cavett is a famous host who has made a name for his conversational style and in-depth interview discussions that many hosts of today follow. He has talked with many famous personalities, from Woody Allen to Jean-Luc Godard to Sophia Loren and more. Do not be surprised, though; the now-84-year-old TV personality has been on the small screen for about five decades.
Cavett is still active in the business today. He has an online column for The New York Times, hosted replays of his TV interviews, and promoted DVDs of his former shows. In his more than six-decade career, Cavett does not only left a great legacy. He also gets credits for being an inspiration to many. One of them is Stephen Colbert, who commended Cavett’s exciting and unusual guests, along with the way he asked intriguing and profound questions. Colbert also liked the honest way Cavett interviewed people.
Joan Collins | 05/23/1933 | 88
Joan Collins is not only an iconic actress. She is an icon of the entertainment business in her own right and one of the most famous actresses, authors, and columnists in the industry. With that, it is no surprise that the now-88-year-old star has received several accolades from the enormous award-giving bodies there are. In her extensive career of seven decades, she already has a Hollywood Walk of Fame, made a Dame by Queen Elizabeth II, and is recognized for her philanthropic works.
Though Collins only appeared in a few movies, her character in the soap opera Dynasty made her an international superstar. It also brought her an incredible degree of critical acclaim, earning her a Golden Globe award. Today, despite the advancing age, Collins remains active in the industry. Fans need to see a new historical drama, Glow and Darkness, and a musical movie, Tomorrow Morning.
Ted Turner | 11/19/1938 | 82
Though Ted Turner is not someone you will see in front of your screen, he is a significant figure in the entertainment world. He has made a substantial investment in founding the news network known to many as CNN today. It was the first 24-hour cable news back then. He then founded WTBS that pioneered the concept of cable TV that later became TBS.
Aside from being a media proprietor, Turner is also famously known for his philanthropic works. He made a noise when he gave $1 billion to the United Nations, resulting in the creation of the United Nations Foundation. Turner also devoted his assets to environmental works. Did you know that he was behind in making the environmental-themed animated series Captain Planet and the Planeteers? Turner works behind the scenes, creating a legacy not just in the entertainment world but for the people and the environment.
Maggie Smith | 12/28/1934 | 86
The Harry Potter universe will never be complete without Maggie Smith, who played the role of Professor McGonagall in the seven-movie franchise. Moreover, this makes her one of the most recognizable actresses in her home country of Britain and worldwide. She is an iconic actress in her own right, having more than 60 film and 70 play credits in her almost seven-decade career. With her contributions, Queen Elizabeth II made her a Dame in 1990 and a Companion of Honor in 2014. More importantly, these achievements cemented her name in history.
In addition, the actress has won a record of six Best Actress Evening Standard Awards for her performances on the London stage and other numerous recognitions and nominations. Indeed, no one can surpass the performance Smith had shown from when she started in the early ’50s until today.
Meredith Baxter | 06/21/1947 | 74
Meredith Baxter is an actress and producer famously known for her role on Bridget Loves Bernie. She conquered the small screen in the ’70s and ’80s, having roles in Family and Family Ties. Baxter even earned an Emmy nomination for her work on A Woman Scorned: The Betty Broderick Story. Mind you, she has a total of five Emmy Awards nominations back then.
Meanwhile, Baxter has been married four times and has five kids. As she repeatedly hired lawyers for her legal separation, the actress believed something was different. Later, she came out as a lesbian and started to have a relationship with Nancy Loake. Today, Baxter is still working in the business and has a new project coming up. She will be playing the role of Dr. Alix Martel in the movie Genesis: The Future of Making is Woman. The film already went through its final legs. However, it is yet to see an announcement when it will be out.
Richard Beymer | 02/20/1983 | 83
Richard Beymer has successfully made a name in the entertainment world since the late ’50s. The movie adaptation of the famous stage play West Side Story, Peter in the iconic The Diary of Anne Frank, and Ben Horne in the fan-favorite Twin Peaks. He even reprised his role on Twin Peaks: The Return and Twin Peaks: A Limited Event Series in 2017, 26 years after the show ended.
Though many have known him as an actor, Beymer is also a filmmaker and an artist in general. He started using his investment money in making documentaries in the early 2000s. One of his projects was a docu that centered on his obsession with photography. He then did several docus more and directed, produced, wrote, and edited the avant-garde movie The Innerview. Beymer even worked with David Lynch, chronicling his trip to India in a film called It’s a Beautiful World.
Russ Tamblyn | 12/30/1934 | 86
Who would have thought that the young and athletic Russ Tamblyn would become one of the best actors of the ’50s? The actor and dancer started his career as a young star for Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. From here, he made an appearance in the musical Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. He then made Peyton Place that earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. Tamblyn also had credit for his prominent role as the Riff in the 1961 West Side Story.
The artist dominated the big screen in the ’70s and even worked as a choreographer in the ’80s. Come the ’90s, he started to work with the great David Lynch in the TV series Twin Peaks. After the show’s success, he reprised his role as Dr. Lawrence Jacoby in the show’s revival in 2017. Today, Tamblyn may have no new project to offer, but fans will continue to cherish the legacy he has left.
Marsha Hunt | 10/17/1917 | 103
Marsha Hunt is the oldest living and one of the last surviving actors from the Golden Age of Hollywood. She is an actress, model, and activist, whose career spans more than seven decades. At 103 years old, Hunt is now the most senior living member of the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences.
The degree of Hunt’s fame back then was beyond impalpable. She conquered the big screen from the late ‘30s to the early ‘70s. Her most known films are Born to the West, Pride and Prejudice, Kid Glove Killer, and more. However, the Hollywood film studio executives blacklisted her in the ‘50s, but she never let it bring her down. Hunter did philanthropic works, becoming active in humanitarian causes to fight world hunger. She also supported same-sex marriage and raised awareness about climate change. Hunter even promoted peace in Third World countries, making her time worthwhile despite being blacklisted.
Pat Priest | 09/15/1936 | 85
Former actress Pat Priest had made many men fall in love with her incredible beauty when she graced the TV screen in the early ’60s. Fans had loved her for being the second Marilyn Muster on the show The Munsters after Beverly Owen, the character’s original star, left the series. Though it was only short-lived, airing for only two years, she had made a mark in the minds of many.
Of course, Priest also dominated the big screen back then. Her famous films are Looking for Love, The Incredible Two-Headed Transplant, and Some Call It Loving. The now-85-year-old star even had the chance to work with Elvis Presley in the 1967 film Easy Come, Easy Go. However, come the ’80s, Priest decided to leave the entertainment world. She retired from acting, though she continued to attend several conventions and Munsters revivals. Post-acting, Pries invested in restoring and selling houses in Idaho, where she used to live.
Terry Kilburn | 11/25/1926 | 94
Would you believe Terry Kilburn is now 94 years old? He is an actor almost all his life, starting as a child star when he began his career in 1937. The star is best known in the films A Christmas Carol and Goodbye, Mr. Chips. His doe eyes, innocent and dreamy look caught everyone’s attention back then. No wonder he instantly became famous at the tender age of 11. He started to have leading role credits in the movies Lord Jeff and Swiss Family Robinson. He was even featured in 1939 The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes.
He had worked alongside some of the biggest names in the industry, like Mickey Rooney. After his time on the big screen, Kilburn focused on theatre works and remained committed to living performances. He eventually left the Hollywood stage and became the artistic director of Oakland University’s Meadow Brook Theater in Rochester, Michigan.
Gene Hackman | 1/30/1930 | 91
Gene Hackman was one of the most versatile and well-respected performers in American cinema history. His career spanned six decades and included outstanding credits on stage and in feature films.
Hackman rose from a competent actor on stage to become an unlikely counterculture star with a bombastic turn in Bonnie and Clyde. He earned an Oscar for Best Actor for his tough-guy performance as the legendary Popeye Doyle in The French Connection just a few years later. Hackman once again delivered the goods, this time as the delightfully crazy Lex Luther in Superman: The Movie. Hackman came to the forefront in Reds and entered what proved to be the busiest period of his career, culminating in an Academy Award nomination for Mississippi Burning and Unforgiven. Hackman wandered off into an unofficial retirement, allowing him to cultivate his writing career while leaving behind a tremendous legacy. Gene’s spending the rest of his days in a home he owns in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where he often rides his e-bike around town.
Julie Christie | 4/14/1980 | 81
Julie Christie starred in a small but significant number of classic films in England and the United States during the 1960s and early 1970s. She is most remembered for her portrayal as Lara in Doctor Zhivago, but she also had memorable prominent roles in McCabe and Mrs. Miller and Shampoo. Julie created a name for herself as a serious performer in challenging films.
Her independent attitude and political involvement limited her cinematic appearances, but she triumphantly returned to film in Hamlet in the mid-1990s. Since then, she has acted in numerous notable movies, including Afterglow. She then portrayed Achilles’ mother in Troy, Madame Rosmerta in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, and Kate Winslet’s disapproving mother in Finding Neverland. Christie’s performance as a woman who has Alzheimer’s disease in Away from Her gained her critical acclaim and several prizes, cementing her degree as one of the best elderly actresses of her generation.
Paul Hogan | 10/8/1939 | 81
Paul Hogan is best known as the Australian country bumpkin Crocodile Dundee. He worked in various vocations before getting a position in show business, including as a painter on the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Hogan wrote to a television talent competition in the late 1960s, professing his wish to perform as a “tap-dancing knife thrower.” However, while on the show, he did a stand-up routine in which he mocked the show he was on. The hoax went viral across Australia, and Hogan earned his program, A Current Affair. He went on to string his career investments with The Paul Hogan Show. Despite receiving multiple offers to portray parts in various feature films, Hogan opted to go his own way and produced his most successful picture to date, Crocodile Dundee. His “fish-out-of-water” character approaches the fast-paced city life from a unique perspective. Crocodile Dundee was an instant hit in his home country and globally. After co-writing and acting in the most successful independent film in history, Hogan says he “mentally retired.”
Kym Karath | 7/4/1958 | 63
Kym Karath started performing at three in Spencer’s Mountain, alongside Henry Fonda and Maureen O’Hara. She continued her child playing career in films like The Thrill of It All and Good Neighbor. Karath had a successful run as a child performer in the early 1960s, and soon enough, she landed her role as the youngest family member in The Sound of Music.
Kym continued acting after The Sound of Music, appearing in shows including Dr. Kildare, Lassie, and The Brady Bunch before taking a break to further her schooling. Kym earned a Humanities degree from USC and starred in series like Archie Bunker’s Place and Midnight Offerings. She then headed to Paris to model and study art history. After her comeback to the US, Kim starred in All My Children and several print advertisements. She married Philippe L’Equibec when she was 26 years old and then took a break from acting to take care of her son, Eric. Karath revealed she was resuming her acting career in Los Angeles at the moment.
Billy Dee Williams | 4/6/1937 | 84
Billy Dee Williams’ career has a few remarkable twists and turns that propelled him to new heights of fame every few years. Born in New York City, he made his film acting debut in The Last Angry Man at 22. Williams worked steadily for the next decade, but it wasn’t until his Emmy-nominated performance in Brian’s Song that he became a household figure.
Billy spent the rest of the 1970s in front of the camera with a pile of film investments. And with his supporting appearance in The Empire Strikes Back, Williams took his ability to space. He reprised his role as charming scoundrel Lando Calrissian in Return of the Jedi and several computer games, TV series, and other projects. Billy made his next significant pop-cultural breakthrough in Batman as Harvey Dent. He remained busy during the next 20 years, but much of his work was limited to cameos or small-scale projects. He made cameo appearances in future Star Wars films, but he never reprised the role in live-action.
Eileen Atkins | 6/16/1934| 87
Atkins relates the tale of a girl from a council estate in Tottenham who was determined to pursue a career on the stage. Her father worked as a gas meter reader, while her mother worked as a seamstress and barmaid.
Her rise from humble origins to iconic prominence in the entertainment industry has been nothing short of remarkable. She has dominated all forms of performing arts, including theater, television, and film. Her roles in plays such as Cymbeline and Honour won her “Olivier Award” three times. She also received a BAFTA and an Emmy Award for her performance in Cranford. Other prominent roles she has had include Psychoville, Robin Hood, and Paddington 2. The British royal family awarded her the ‘Commander of the Order of the British Empire’ to appreciate her efforts. She later got one of the British Empire’s highest distinctions when she was named “Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire.” She had a long and illustrious career that spanned more than five decades and garnered numerous prizes and credits.
Jerry Mathers | 6/2/1948 | 73
Jerry Mathers was eternally associated with the ideal of the 1950s American family as the freckle-faced, ball cap-wearing title character on Leave it to Beaver. The series ran for six seasons, cementing Mathers’ alter ego in popular culture long before they coined the phrase.
After the show ended, he tried to build his own identity in various ways. He then ventured into a few different investments, including owning and operating a catering company in California and briefly working in real estate. With Still the Beaver and The New Leave it to Beaver, Mathers returned to the Cleaver household with a mix of American nostalgia and his need to make a living. He settled into an irregular career that included guest appearances on retrospectives like Child Stars: Their Story and Better Luck Tomorrow. However, cameo appearances as himself in Larry the Cable Guy: Health Inspector would continue to be a feature of Mathers’ body of work – indicating the kid actor embodied a revered period in American history.
Robert Englund | 6/6/1947 | 74
When Robert Englund played crazed killer Freddy Krueger in the 1984 horror film A Nightmare on Elm Street, he made everyone’s worst nightmares thousand times more terrible. Freddy, on the other hand, was never down for long. He was a nightmare that wouldn’t go away, and his reign of horror isn’t over yet. He’s so terrifying that even Englund is terrified of him.
Englund may not win Oscars or earn the highest wages in Hollywood, but he never goes without work and has lots of freedom to choose the projects he wants to work on. Since winning a supporting role in Buster and Billie, he’s been steadily working in Hollywood. Yet, after playing Freddy, the offers came pouring in. He’s appeared in films including The Phantom of the Opera and TV shows like Bones and Supernatural. In 2020, he presented a show called True Terror on the Travel Channel. To this degree, one may consider Englund to be a horror movie expert in general.
Loretta Swit | 11/4/1937 | 83
Few actresses have the ability of Loretta Swit in capturing the imagination of a generation of television viewers. Swit became an American icon as the quick-witted, passionate Major Margaret Houlihan of television’s most acclaimed series, M*A*S*H. With the popular show now in worldwide syndication, new admirers continue to adore her opulent portrayal.
Swit is more than just prime-time perfection. Her talents are far-reaching and diversified, as evidenced by awards and credits under her name. Her career has matched her with some of the most well-known figures in the entertainment industry. She has appeared in nearly 500 performances of Shirley Valentine, for which she received Chicago’s most prestigious theatre prize. Aside from M*A*S*H, she has appeared in over 25 films on television. Her diverse acting range has placed her in some heady company on the big screen as well, demonstrating wit’s adaptability and presence. Loretta served the Humane Society of the United States and has been voted Woman of the Year for her tireless humanitarian work.
Liv Ullmann | 12/16/1938 | 82
Specific names, such as Sofia Loren and Brigitte Bardot, come to mind when one thinks about European cinema. On the other hand, Liv Ullmann is a name that is of a lesser degree outside of the film industry. Ullmann performed in nearly 30 films on the big and small screens during the 1960s and 1970s, many of which were by visionary Swedish director Ingmar Bergman.
She began acting on stage in Norway in the mid-1950s and continued to do so throughout her career. In A Doll’s House, Nora was her most famous role — and the only one she ever reprised. Liv’s first acknowledged cinema performance was as the female protagonist in The Wayward Girl. In addition to acting and directing, she has also published books, including the autobiographical Changing. One of Liv’s life’s passions has been the situation of refugees all around the world. She co-founded the Women’s Refugee Commission and has spent more than 30 years advocating for refugees’ rights.
Sally Struthers | 7/28/1947 | 74
Sally Struthers made a cameo in Five Easy Pieces, but she rose as Gloria Stivic in All in the Family. She won two Emmys for her compelling performance, and after leaving the series in 1978, she got her spin-off, Gloria.
Her career in the entertainment sector began in the 1960s, but she rose to prominence in the 1970s. She had a supporting role in The Getaway, but she was more successful in made-for-TV films and voiceover work. She lent her voice as the Flintstones’ daughter on The Pebbles and Bamm-Bamm Show, Baloo’s boss Becky on TaleSpin, and Charlene Sinclair on Dinosaurs. Struthers built great career investments and took a prominent role in raising vast sums of money for needy children. Struthers has also been a spokesperson for several organizations. She was a member of the Christian Children’s Fund, pleading with the public to help alleviate starvation in developing countries, particularly Africa.
George Hamilton | 8/12/1939 | 82
George Hamilton’s off-screen persona is that of a bright, well-dressed escort of attractive women. His permanent golden-brown tan has become somewhat of a pop culture inside humor over the years.
Hamilton began his career as a handsome young dramatic actor in Crime and Punishment USA. Its success resulted in films like All the Fine Young Cannibals, Love At First Bite, and The Godfather Part III. In 1995-96, his talk program George & Alana, which he co-hosted with his ex-wife, Alana Stewart, had a brief run in syndication. He’s also starred as a guest star on TV shows like Columbo and 2 Broke Girls. Nonetheless, Hamilton’s appearances in high society began to eclipse his cinematic performances. Hamilton launched a network of investments, including luxury cigar bars and coffee shops. In 2016 and 2018, fast-food chain Kentucky Fried Chicken engaged Hamilton to play Colonel Sanders in a series of television commercials based on his “extra-crispy” tan.
Sam Jones | 6/24/1933 | 88
Sam J. Jones may not have been able to protect all of us. He did, however, play a legendary role who saved every man, woman, and kid on the planet. He was the all-powerful Flash Gordon.
Jones scored his first movie part less than a year after relocating to Los Angeles. In crisis comedy, 10, he played Bo Derek’s surfer husband. It was the year’s seventh highest-grossing film and the top comedy, narrowly beating out The Jerk. Jones gained work on television after the success of Flash Gordon. He became a regular on the show Code Red from 1981 to 1982. Jones struggled to find consistent work for the majority of the decade, despite numerous opportunities. He appeared in episodes of The A-Team, Hunter, and Riptide as a guest star. Jones would occasionally guest on TV shows like Baywatch, Thunder in Paradise, and Texas Ranger. His credits include a Stargate SG-1 episode and the Animal Planet show Hollywood Safari. Jones made an appearance in an episode of the short-lived Flash Gordon in 2007 – which would be his final acting role.
Roger Ewing | 1/12/1942 | 79
Roger Ewing’s acting career included guest appearances on television shows, sitcoms, and films. He is most known for portraying Clayton Thaddeus “Thad” Greenwood in thirty-six episodes of Gunsmoke.
He made his first uncredited film appearance in 1964, playing Jackson in the war comedy film Ensign Pulver. In the same year, Roger made his first appearance on television when he guest-starred in the fantasy series Bewitched. The series aired from 1992 to 1995 – won 13 awards and was nominated for 32 others. Roger went on to play Donald Maxwell in Smith! and also appeared in an episode of Rawhide. Before retiring from acting, two of Roger’s final roles were in the series Death Valley Days and Play It as it Lays. With a professional acting career, he must have amassed sizable investment money. Since then, Roger has spent much of his life traveling and working as a photographer. Now, he prefers to stay at home and participate in politics.
David Crosby | 7/14/1941 | 80
David Crosby’s soaring vocals were the backbone of two of the decade’s most popular and influential bands. He was a pioneering figure in forming folk-rock and the West Coast rock scene, which dominated American pop and rock-n-roll in the 1970s.
In 1964, he formed his band The Byrds, and their 1965 performance of Mr. Tambourine Man was a huge hit. Despite their popularity and success, the Byrds disbanded in 1967. He then formed Crosby, Stills & Nash and quickly became one of the most iconic torchbearers of major musical significance. They took a hiatus from touring to focus on their solo ventures. Crosby has had massive success as a solo performer and session musician since then. After Crosby turned 70, he experienced an unexpected late-career rebirth, resulting in a succession of new solo albums that many admirers regarded as his best. While Crosby’s music continued to inspire generations of folk-rock performers, it was his story of survival and redemption that cemented his degree in music history.
Rita Moreno | 12/11/1931| 81
Rita Moreno is a singer, dancer, as well as actress who hails from Puerto Rico. The young star took dancing lessons when her family moved to the United States. Moreover, this helped mold her into the beginnings of a star. She started in the entertainment industry while she was just 11 years old, where she was doing voiceovers in Spanish. Moreno began to be young in Broadway, and although she got minor roles in various shows, it was in West Side Story that she truly shone.
Moreno received an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Anita in the West Side Story, and it will not be the last. To her credit, Moreno also won an Emmy, Tony, and Grammy award, making her one of the stars who managed to get four of these prestigious awards for her work. Her most recent position was in the remake of One Day at a Time under the streaming platform Netflix.
Quincy Jones | 3/14/1933| 88
Quincy Jones is one of the most well-known names in the music industry, thanks to his contributions over six decades. Jones is a musician first before he made a mark as a songwriter and producer. Among the musicians that gave credit to him for his contributions to their career are Frank Sinatra, Aretha Franklin, Paul Simon, and Michael Jackson, to name a few. Jones was a notable jazz player, too, and has released his album too. But after gaining attention for his musical arrangements, the musician went to Paris to study under Nadia Boulanger. More importantly, this helped him become better at his craft.
Jones became a Grammy Award nominee 80 times and was able to bring home 28 of them. He received an Honorary Doctorate from his former school, Berklee College of Music. He also received an introduction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013. His impressive career is one for the books.
Henry Winkler | 10/30/1945 |76
Henry Winkler is a versatile actor best known for his work in the TV show Happy Days, as The Fonz. After getting his degree from Emerson College, and an MFA from Yale School of Drama, Winkler has set the stage for his career in the entertainment industry. Though he started out doing TV commercials, he also performed on stage. He did appear in various TV shows, but it was in Happy Days where he broke ground. Moreover, Winkler also appeared in movies like The One and Only, Heroes, and An American Christmas Carol.
The actor admitted to having difficulty in shaking off association with The Fonz throughout his career. But it also helped him land numerous roles on TV like Out of Practice, Children’s Hospital, Parks and Recreation, and Arrested Development. His latest work was in The French Dispatch.
Shaggy | 10/22/1968 | 52
The Boombastic singer, Shaggy, has made a name for himself as a musician and a DJ best known for his reggae music. He first broke through in the music scene with Oh Carolina in 1993, and it was in the same year that he released his debut album called Pure Pleasure. His fifth album, Hot Shot, received a 3x platinum award. In this album, his hit singles, It Wasn’t Me and Angel, were included. The singer moved from one record label to the next until he used his investments to build his record label called Big Yard Records.
Shaggy may not be as active in the music scene as before, but he has won numerous awards and accolades at his peak. Shaggy has also collaborated with other artists like Sting, Robert Orton, and Tony Lake for the 44/876, which won a covetous Grammy for Best Reggae Album back in 2019. The singer-songwriter is enjoying his hard-earned money, which he has invested in real estate.
Jon Voight | 12/29/ 1938 | 82
With more than seven decades in Hollywood, Jon Voight has done it all. A versatile actor, he has already played convicts, cowboys, champs, and even the not-so-appetizing ones. He is still not done playing a gangster father to Live Schreiber in the show Ray Donovan. What pushed him to become an actor? Voight gave credit to Sid Caesar, who he watched in Your Show of Shows back as a kid. He started working on Broadway with fellow actor Robert Duvall until he got a part in Midnight Cowboy.
He further cemented his acting caliber with the film, Deliverance. More films landed on the lap that won him several awards, like in Coming Home. Aside from his stellar career in Hollywood, he is also the father of Angelina Jolie, who is a veteran actress and director. Voight has only good words about his daughter, which shows that he is impressed by her craft. Retiring is quite far from his mind at the moment, which is a relief!
Don Mclean | 10/2/1945 | 75
The American Pie singer, Don McLean, has established himself as a singer and songwriter in the 70’s. Though many assumed that he was a one-hit-wonder because of his American Pie song, he has other hits to his name like Vincent, Wonderful Baby, and his cover of Crying by Roy Orbison. McLean recorded his debut album using his own investment money until MediaArts picked it up. There were many misses in the albums he released, but he did make good money.
McLean took a step back from recording during the middle of the ’80s but came back with the Greatest Hits Then & Now album. He also released Christmas albums which were well received. A bit of trivia for those who just heard the song American Pie. The original manuscript reached a whopping $1.2 million when it came to the auction. McLean still performs even today, which shows that there is no stopping his fame in the music industry.
Linda Evans | 11/ 18/ 1942 | 78
Linda Evans started her career in Hollywood by taking on a guest role for Bachelor Father. She got a break with The Big Valley, a western TV series where Audra Barkley played from 1965 to 1969. Her most significant gap was in Dynasty, where “catfights” first appeared between Joan Collins and her characters. It was also here where she received her Golden Globe and was a constant nominee throughout the show’s run. Though many would assume that she would continue her acting career, Evans retired after Dynasty ended.
The actress set up several investments like fitness centers and published a beauty and exercise book as well. She did go back to acting for a bit for Dynasty: The Reunion. She also tried her hand in Hell’s Kitchen, which she won. In one interview, Evans said that she did not want to be famous, which was one of the reasons why she did not pursue an acting career like the others. On a good note, she is enjoying her time away from the limelight today.
Ted Lange | 1/5/1948 | 73
Ted Lange devoted ten years of his acting career to the show, The Love Boat, where he played the role of Isaac Washington, the bartender. His breakout role also helped him become successful not only as an actor but also as a screenwriter and director. Moreover, this is not surprising since he has a degree in Drama which he put to good use. As the lovable bartender onboard The Love Boat, Lange also wrote the script and directed a few episodes. The actor even learned how to become a bartender to give justice to his character!
Lange also worked in various shows like 227, Glitch!, The Cleveland Show, as well as Psych. He even appeared in Celebrity Fit Club, where he tried to lose weight for the sake of a charity supported by the show. The former The Love Boat cast had a reunion back in 2018 before receiving an honorary star long overdue on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Tim Matheson | 12/31/1947 | 74
Tim Matheson is a veteran actor who rose to fame thanks to his performance in Bonanza, one of the longest-running series on TV. But before that, he was a young actor who had a part to play in Window on Main Street. Growing up, Matheson landed a role in the TV western series, The Quest. He later ventured into acting on film, becoming part of National Lampoon’s Animal House opposite John Belushi. His success continued from the ’60s to the ’90s.
Aside from being in front of the camera, Matheson, to his credit, was also great as a director. He acted and directed The West Wing, which was an instant hit. He poured a lot of his investments into his being a director, which is why he got a great gig going with shows like Cold Case, White Collar, and Criminal Minds. He is still active as an actor, so we will not be seeing the last of him on our TV.
Alain Delon | 11/8/1935 | 85
French actor Alain Delon sure knows how to make women swoon back in the ’60s. He has received numerous accolades and awards throughout his career. Delon’s performances in The Yellow Rolls-Royce and Plein Soleil caught the eyes of both the audience and critics alike. Though his acting career was in the French film industry, Delon also starred in English films like Texas Across the River and Red Sun.
While his acting career on film slowed down, he did make a comeback on TV shows like Fabio Montale and Frank Riva. But it is not only in acting that Delon excelled. He was also a savvy entrepreneur. Delon used his investment money to go into the clothing and eyewear business and more. He is still quite active today, even at his age. He even released his new single, Je n’aime que toi, composed by Rick Allison and Julia Paris. He was also given the Palme’ d’Or by Cannes Film Festival in 2019.
Dennis Holmes | 10/3/1959 | 62
Child actor, Dennis Holmes, rose to fame for his role in the western series Laramie. His TV debut was in The Jack Benny Program, where he played Jimmy Evans. It was a role that he retained in 1961. Holmes went on to appear in several shows like The Walter Winchell File, Wire Service, and General Electric Theater. He has several plays he was given credit for, like in Father Knows Best, The Restless Gun, and Leave It to Beaver. Thanks to the teaching of Robert Fuller, Holmes made a mark in the entertainment industry with his acting skills.
His last ever TV appearance was in 1964 for the show, The Virginian and in Wagon Train. Though there isn’t enough information on what the actor did after retiring from acting, many still remember him for his TV performances. There is no doubt that he became part of many people’s childhood back in the day.
Loretta Lynn | 4/14/1932 | 89
Loretta Lynn has made a name for herself as a country music star who has been in the industry for several decades. Though making a career in music is a challenge, Lynn never had any trouble finding her voice in the market. With the wide range of her vocals, it doesn’t a surprise that she can perform different music genres like gospel and country music. Her first song, I’m a Honky Tonk Girl, was done in Hollywood under Zero Records. Her song, You Ain’t Woman Enough (To Take My Man), reached the number one spot, making her the first-ever female country singer to have written a song that secured the top spot.
To her credit, Lynn’s career in the music scene just skyrocketed over the years, with several albums and singles released along the way. She was also the recipient of several awards like CMA’s Entertainer of the Year and Artist of the Decade from the Academy of Country Music Awards. She recently released a new album called Still Woman Enough, where she collaborated with other country music stars of today.
Carol Burnett | 4/26/ 1933 | 88
Carol Burnett has won the hearts of millions of people across the globe by her charm and skills in acting. Ever since she started during the 1950s, Burnett found success in the entertainment industry. During the early years of her acting journey, she was doing minor roles like in the Jerry Mahoney Show and Stanley. But with her performances in nightclubs in New York, her name became known. Soon enough, Burnett was doing Broadway musicals which helped her hone her skills.
By the time 1967 rolled in, Burnett was hosting her variety show called, The Carol Burnett Show. It was a smashing success! Throughout its run, the show received 23 Emmy Awards. Aside from her hosting, she also continued appearing in films and on TV as well. Among her works were Desperate Housewives, Hawaii Five-O, and All My Children. To her credit, Burnett is still full of energy and is currently planning her tour for next year.
Joseph and Michael Mayer | 6/ 26/ 1952 | 69
Twins Michael and Joseph Mayer became a staple in the hit TV show I Love Lucy, cast as Little Ricky. Moreover, this was the only time the two appeared in the entertainment industry, but they left a mark on their viewers. With 32 episodes under their belt, it is easy to see why many wondered what happened to the two after the show ended. Instead, the two focused their energy on their education where they were able to get a college degree. Michael did act from time to time, but it wasn’t his bread and butter.
After college, the twins forged their paths with Joseph becoming a missionary while his brother, Michael, became a teacher for special education. The investments that they put into their studies paid off since both are excelling in their careers. The latest news about Joseph was that he is working with Portland General Electric. His brother continues to teach.
Richard Keith | 12/1/1950 | 70
Keith Thibodeaux, or Richard Keith as he is best known, was a child actor who landed the role of Little Ricky in the hit TV show I Love Lucy and The Lucy-Desi Comedy Hour. His drum-playing skills were the reason why he landed this much-coveted role. Of course, these two weren’t the only shows that Thibodeaux appeared in. Keith also worked in The Andy Griffith Show, pals with fellow actor Ron Howard, who later became a famous director. Thanks to his time on TV, Keith saved quite a lot of money which helped him today.
The actor used his investment money to help with his wife’s business called the Ballet Magnificat. He continued his drumming career and was part of David and the Giants starting in 1969. Later on, he had his autobiography released, which told his life story after the time with Lucy.
Marion Ross | 10/25/28 | 92
Marion Ross is a retired American actress best known for her role in the hit sitcom Happy Days. Her time with the sitcom garnered her two coveted Primetime Emmy awards, solidifying her place in the industry. Before that, however, Ross was already earning acting credits from films like Sabrina, Lust for Life, and Operation Petticoat.
After rising to fame, Ross continued her success well into the 80s and 90s. Ross received nominations for a Golden Globe in 1996 for her supporting role in the film Evening Star. The actress did several projects after that, like voice-over acting and more recurring sitcom roles. However, she eventually decided to slow down with her career and focus on her retirement. The actress appeared in the 2021 film Senior Entourage for the last time before finally bidding the camera goodbye. The 92-year-old actress is now enjoying some much-needed downtime after a long and fruitful career.
Kris Kristofferson | 06/22/36 | 85
Kris Kristofferson is an American musician turned actor born in Brownsville, Texas. Moreover, the musician-actor was often encouraged to join the service when he was younger. However, the call of music and writing was more robust.
As a teenager, Kristofferson dreamed of becoming a professional writer. He eventually enrolled at Pomona college and finished his Literature degree with flying colors. The musician-actor graduated as his class’ summa cum laude, earning him a scholarship to Oxford University’s Merton College. His life punctuated itself with several detours and odd jobs, but he finally made his way into the music industry in the 60s. He had signed with Epic Records by the latter end of the decade and started a successful musical career thereon. On the other hand, his acting career did not begin until 1973, when he appeared in Blume in Love. After spending decades in Hollywood, Kris Kristofferson finally announced his retirement in January of 2021.
Michael York | 03/27/42 | 79
British actor Michael York is a two-time Emmy Award-winning actor born in Fulmar, Buckinghamshire. York discovered his knack for acting at a young age but pursued a college degree first before moving to the professional world of acting. He started gaining experience under Bromley Little Theatre and later moved on to the National Youth Theater. He made his professional acting debut in 1959 in London’s West End production of the Shakespeare classic Hamlet. From that point on, York’s career steadily rose.
He also grew his acting portfolio to include varied acting projects in film, TV, and stage. However, his most prominent work came from the ABC’s Afterschool Special: Are You My Mother? He also became a staple character in the Austin Powers franchise from 1997 to 2002. York is still very much active in the industry today. However, he has chosen to live a more low-profile life away from the spotlight. There’s no word yet if the actor is working on an upcoming project, but we’re sure his avid followers are excited to see him on tv and the big screens again.
Peter Weller | 06/24/47 | 74
Peter Weller is an American actor most recognized for his role in RoboCop and RoboCop2. The actor was born in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, on June 24, 1947, to a homemaker mother and a lawyer father. His father was also part of the United States Army, allowing him to live in different parts of the world when he was younger. Growing up, Weller resided in West Germany before moving back to Texas. He later studied theater acting and began acting under the American Academy of Dramatic Arts.
Professionally, Weller earned his first acting gig in the Broadway production of Full Circle. He later embarked on several acting projects in film and television, but his most successful role was as the titular character for the sci-fi film RoboCop. After years of performing on stage and in front of the camera, Weller eventually turned his attention into directing. He worked on various projects as a director, like Homicide: Life on the Street. The actor is still active today.
Ann-Margret Olsson | 04/28/41 | 80
Ann-Margret Olsson, or most famously known as Ann-Margret, is an actress born in Stockholm, Sweden, before moving and working in the United States. From a young age, Olsson showed massive interest and potential in dancing and performing. Luckily, her parents were incredibly supportive and put in all the necessary investments to hone her skills. Later on, Olsson began performing in various dance clubs in Las Vegas and California and even danced for Tony Bennett’s tour.
She later made her way into the music industry and released her debut album, And Here She Is: Ann-Margret, launched in 1961. That same year, Olsson earned a Golden Globe for New Star of the Year for her role in Pocketful of Miracles. From that point on, Ann-Marget got involved in a string of highly profitable projects. The actress recently starred in the 2021 film Queen Bees alongside Ellen Burstyn, Christopher Lloyd, Jane Curtin, and Elizabeth Mitchell.
Julie Andrews | 10/01/35 | 85
It would be challenging to pick just one out of Julie Andrews’ long and illustrious list for iconic roles. As you may know, the actress brought to life several iconic characters. Moreover, this includes Mary Poppins, Maria von Trapp, Queen Clarisse Renaldi, and most recently, Lady Whistledown.
Andrews began her career as a young girl in 1945, acting in minor stage productions. Then, at 12 years old, Andrews got involved with Moss Empires and professionally debuted in the London Hippodrome. She spent some years performing in the location before breaking into Broadway when she was 19 years old. From 1954 to 1962, Andrews focused most of her attention on building a career in Broadway. However, when 1963 came, the actress started transitioning into film and TV. During this time, her fame rose to a massive degree, thanks to her titular role in the Disney classic Mary Poppins. Today, Andrews takes regard as one of the greatest actresses in the industry.
Marla Gibbs | 06/14/31 | 90
Margaret Therese Bradley, better known as Marla Gibbs, was born in Chicago, Illinois, on June 14, 1931. She is the second-born of three siblings born to Ophelia Birdie and Douglas Bradley. Gibbs later relocated to Detroit, Michigan, to pursue a degree in business before working on her acting career.
Gibbs debuted as an actress during the 70s and starred in the 1975 sitcom The Jeffersons. The role ended up earning her five Primetime Emmy nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actress and one Golden Globe nomination for the same category. Following the end of the series, Gibbs starred as a lead actress in NBC’s 227. Gibbs also got involved in several high-profile projects throughout her career, including Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Southland, ER, and Touched By An Angel. In recent years, Gibbs appeared in shows like Hot In Cleveland, This Is Us, Scandal, and American Horror Story: Hotel. She is still quite active in the industry, so that we can expect more performances from her in the future.
Judd Hirsch | 03/15/35 | 86
Judd Seymour Hirsch, better known as Judd Hirsch, is an American actor best known for his portrayal of Alex Reiger in Taxi. The actor was born and raised in New York City by his European descent parents. His father was the son of German immigrants, while his mother immigrated from Russia. Before starting his acting career, Hirsch first tried his luck in science after finishing a degree in physics at the famous City College of New York.
However, after serving in the United States Army, the actor decided to enroll at HB Studio and study acting. He enjoyed a very prosperous career as a TV actor during the 70s and effortlessly moved between film and stage acting. Hirsch earned countless awards and nominations throughout his 62-year long career, making him one of the most prolific performers of his time. Hirsch still maintains an active presence in the industry and even starred in three projects in 2020 alone.
Jamie Farr | 07/01/34 | 87
Jamie Farr is an American actor-comedian of Lebanese descent. He was born in Toledo, Ohio, to a seamstress mother and a grocer father. Farr showed a passion for acting at a young age and even won an acting competition when he was only 11 years old. Standing out from his acting class in Pasadena Playhouse, Farr was ultimately scouted by a Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer talent agent and brought over for a screen test for Blackboard Jungle. He acted for a few years but eventually enlisted to serve in the United States Army.
Farr admitted that he almost quit acting had it not been for Red Skelton, who helped him professionally and financially. Skelton also gave the young Jamie Farr a regular part in the Red Skelton Show. He furthered his career by appearing in more comedy shows. The actor also broke into film. After several years of making people laugh, the comedian finally received his star in the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1985. Thanks to his investments, the actor is now enjoying a comfortable life.
Katharine Ross | 01/29/40 | 81
Multi-awarded actress Katharine Ross is known for her various high-profile projects, including Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, The Graduate, and The Stepford Wives. Having been born in Hollywood, Los Angeles, I guess we could say that Ross received the spotlight. However, the actress was more interested in riding horses when she was younger instead of performing. Ross took an interest in acting when the actress received an offer to the production of The King and I.
The shift happened instantly for the actress, and before anyone knew it, she dropped out of school and took off to San Francisco to further her acting skills. There, she took acting workshops and earned minor acting credits. Ross experienced several acting failures during the first few years of her career but ultimately landed a film role in Shenandoah. Slowly but surely, Ross made her way up the ladder until finally earning her breakthrough role in The Graduate film.
Cindy Williams | 08/22/47 | 74
Happy Days would not have achieved a significant degree of fame for incredible talents, like Cindy Williams. The actress is famous for her character as Shirley Feeney in the hit sitcom. After the show wrapped up production, the actress received a lead role in the sitcom’s spin-off Laverne and Shirley. Unfortunately, the actress encountered a rough patch during her run as Shirley Feeney when producers found out about her pregnancy.
Although she brought massive success to the show, her pregnancy met some resistance from the showrunners. Fortunately, the actress could pull through the difficult phase and emerge with a renewed sense of success. Throughout her career, Williams spread out her acting performances between film, TV, and stage. In the later years of her professional life, Williams began venturing into writing and publication. The actress authored a biographical book released in 2015.
Mike Farrell | 02/06/39 | 82
M*A*S*H iconic star Mike Farrell is an American actor born in Minnesota and raised in Hollywood, California. Like so many men from his generation, Farrell also spent some years serving in the military. The actor, in particular, worked in the United States Marine Corps. After finishing his service, he took on different regular jobs before deciding to pursue acting full-time.
Farrell officially began his acting career in the 60s, earning minor roles in a few TV series. Then in 1968, he was cast to play Scott Banning in Days of Our Lives. More roles followed, but his most prominent project came in 1975 when he received an offer to play B.J. Hunnicut in the show M*A*S*H. The actor also ventured into documentary film narration and became the narrating voice for many National Geographic films. Nowadays, the actor is known for his activism, promoting awareness for human rights and animal cruelty. He’s even spent considerable investment money in support for causes he’s passionate about.
William Shatner | 03/22/31 | 90
William Shatner is a Canadian actor born and raised in Montreal, Quebec. Growing up, Shatner didn’t think about being an actor. Instead, he pursued a degree in economics and graduated from McGill University. After the actor finished his education, he began developing a passion for performing and training as a Shakespearean actor. Shatner started his journey in the early 1950s and mainly did television work.
However, his debut performance was in the 1951 film Butler’s Night. From that point on, Shatner’s career steadily grew, that it didn’t take long for critics and Hollywood executives to take notice. When the 1960s rolled around, Shatner received an offer for a role of a lifetime when he approved the position to play Captain James T. Kirk in the sci-fi classic Star Trek. After wrapping up the series in 1969, Shatner starred in several other high-profile projects and earned many accolades. He is now 90 years old but is still hard at work in Hollywood.
Gary Burghoff | 05/24/43 | 78
Connecticut-born Gary Burghoff is an American actor best known for his performances in the filmMASH and the Broadway musical, You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown. Before starting his acting career, Burghoff first trained as a musician and dancer. In his youth, he studied the art of tap dance and performed as a drummer. Although the actor had a medical condition that challenged his playing percussion instruments, the actor persisted and became a master of his craft.
He later decided to spend some of his investment money on getting acting training and enrolled at New York City’s HB Studio. Then in 1968, Burghoff became a member of the band The Relatives, which gave him the chance to work with Lynda Carter. He officially embarked on his first major acting project two years later, when he received an offer to be a part of M*A*S*H. He acted and worked on his music his entire career. However, Burghoff officially retired as an actor and musician in 2010.
Rita Coolidge | 05/01/45 | 76
Rita Coolidge may have taken a step back from the spotlight, but she was all the rave during the 70s and 80s. Coolidge is an American singer and musician born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida. After getting discovered in Memphis, Coolidge traveled to Los Angeles to start working as a backup singer for artists like Jimi Hendrix, Bob Dylan, and Stephen Stills. Coolidge also began writing songs for other artists but gained little to no credit for her work.
Some of her uncredited pieces include Superstar by The Carpenters and Layla by Derek and the Dominos. Then in 1973, the singer married fellow musician Kris Kristofferson, who became her duo and bandmate. As a musical duo, Kristofferson and Coolidge were able to bag two Grammy Awards for their songs Lover Please and The From the Bottle to the Bottom. From 1977 to 1978, Coolidge enjoyed massive success after four of her songs consecutively charted in Billboard’s Top 25.
Jill St. John | 19/8/1940 | 80
While many may not remember Jill St. John nowadays, she is perhaps given credit by fans of James Bond as the first American to become a Bond girl in the 007 franchise. Born Jill Arlyn Oppenheim in Los Angeles, California, St. John began her career in entertainment at 6, acting first on radio shows. She then made her screen debut three years later. By 1957, she signed a contract with Universal Pictures, the first studio she worked under. Her starting salary was around $200 a week, worth about $1,943 today, adjusted for inflation.
During the 1960s, St. John became known for her comedic roles in Honeymoon Hotel, Who’s Minding The Stone?, and Come Blow Your Horn, leading to her Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress. However, her most iconic role was as diamond smuggler Tiffany Case in the film Diamonds Are Forever. Since then, St. John has slowed chiefly down on her career, with her last appearance, so far, in Northpole back in 2014.
Sharon Gless | 31/5/1943 | 78
Sharon Gless has been a fixture in television for decades. Born in California to an older family, Gless was already aspiring to act in her early years. However, she first made her career start as a secretary for advertising agencies. Eventually, the young actress started working for independent film production companies. She then got her big break in 1972 when she signed a 7-year contract with Universal Studios. While working for Universal, she first appeared in TV movies and minor roles in many TV shows.
Her first significant role was as Christine Cagney on Cagney & Lacey, where she replaced Meg Foster starting in the series’ seventh episode. Throughout the series from 1982 until 1988, Gless won two Primetime Emmys and a Golden Globe. Other notable acting credits to her name include Burn Notice, Nip/Tuck, and The Trials of Rosie O’Neill, where Gless met her now-husband, series creator Barney Rosenzweig. Today, Gless remains active in the industry and has ventured into theater, as well.
Barbara Babcock | 27/2/1937 | 84
Barbara Babcock is an actress well-known for her eccentric and unusual roles. Born in the United States, she spent a large part of her childhood in Japan, where she learned Japanese before English. Babcock subsequently studied at various universities across Europe before graduating with a degree from Wellesley College. She began her acting career in 1956, mostly taking up minor roles on TV shows. Her most notable appearances at this point were with the original Star Trek, playing various characters, in addition to uncredited voice work for many episodes.
She made her big-screen debut in 1968 in Day of the Evil Gun. Other notable films she appeared in include Heart of Dixie, Far and Away, and Space Cowboys. However, her role as Grace Gardner on Hill Street Blues and as Dorothy Jennings on Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman, put her on the map. Thanks to her roles, she won an Emmy, in addition to various nominations received. Today, she has retired from the industry since 2004.
Yvette Mimieux | 8/1/1942 | 79
Yvette Mimieux is an actress well-known for her extensive work for Metro-Goldwyn-Meyer (MGM). Born in Los Angeles, she aspired to be an actress very early on. She first appeared in minor roles on Yancy Derringer and One Step Beyond. Her first work with MGM was in the film adaptation of H.G. Well’s novel The Time Machine in 1960. Her most notable film with MGM was Light in the Piazza, released in 1962. While it performed below expectations at the box office, it was well-received by film critics. Throughout Mimieux’s time with the studio, she had at least ten acting credits to her name.
She left MGM in 1965, eventually diversifying her acting resume. Among her most notable works from then on include Jackson County Jail, Hit Lady, Circle of Power, and Lady Boss, with the latter being her final film. She retired from the industry in 1992. Outside of acting, Mimieux was known for her interests in various fields, including archaeology, journalism, and creative writing.
Shirley Jones | 31/3/1934 | 87
Shirley Jones has been an accomplished musical actress since the 1950s. Born in Pennsylvania to a Methodist family, she expressed interest in music by performing in her church’s choir at a young age. After being discovered by the casting director for the highly influential musical team, Rodgers and Hammerstein, she began her career in theater. Her first acting credit was in South Pacific back in 1949. Impressed by her voice, Rodgers and Hammerstein cast Jones as the female lead in the film adaptation of Oklahoma! in 1995, which was her debut on the big screen. The film was quite successful and made many familiar with Jones’s character as a wholesome and kind one.
Despite the typecasting, Jones can efficiently perform more serious roles, such as her performance in Elmer Gantry in 1960. She won an Oscar for her performance. Her other notable work was The Partridge Family, where the actress starred as Shirley Partridge, the matriarch of the eponymous family. Today, Jones remains active in the industry, albeit slowing down on the number of works and roles she has been doing in recent times.
Shelley Duvall | 7/7/1949 | 72
Shelly Duvall has been quite iconic for her eccentric and distinctive roles over the years. Born in Fort Worth, Texas, Duvall began her career in the 1970s after being discovered by Robert Altman while working on Brewster McCloud. Her first acting credit was in the iconic Western film McCabe & Mrs. Miller. She subsequently appeared in films like Nashville, Bernice Bobs Her Hair, and Thieves Like Us. Her most successful film during this time was in 3 Women, directed by Altman. She received praise from critics, with many noting her extraordinary performance.
However, her most iconic role was as Wendy Torrance in Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining in 1980. While her performance was not well-received at the film’s release, she garnered praise in later years. After The Shining, her other notable films include Popeye, Time Bandits, and Frankenweenie. In addition, she ventured into producing children’s shows, with her work in Faerie Tale Theatre being a notable one. She eventually retired in 2002, with Manna from Heaven being her last acting appearance.
Burt Ward | 6/7/1945 | 76
Burt Ward has been a well-known figure among superhero fans. After all, he has been famous for his portrayal of Robin, Batman’s sidekick. Before that, however, Ward was quite the athlete in his younger years, often excelling in many sports. The young Ward auditioned for the role of Robin at age 19. Ward eventually got the part. He often performed most of his stunts because his costume made his face more visible in front of the cameras. In addition, it was a cost-saving measure.
Despite his hard work for the series, he received around $350, which is $609 in today’s money, per week in the first few months. Regardless, he considered his time in the show good and became close friends with his co-star, Adam West, who played Batman. They worked together in various films and TV series, even as they saw a sudden series cancellation in 1969. Thanks to his iconic role, Ward was given credit via a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2020.
Cher | 20/5/1946 | 75
Cher has been a juggernaut in the music industry for decades. Born in California, she first began her career in the 1960s, performing in small clubs along the Sunset Strip in Hollywood. She subsequently met Sonny Bono in 1962, who would end up marrying her years later. Cher released her iconic debut album, All I Really Want to Do, in 1965, to modest success. At this point, Cher and Bono began working together under the name Sonny & Cher. Their most successful albums include Look at Us, The Wondrous World of Sonny & Cher, and In Case You’re in Love. Simultaneously, Cher managed to have her successful solo career.
Despite a slump in the late 1960s, she made a comeback in the early 1970s. However, the climb to success stopped due to Cher’s split from Bono. These patterns of recoveries became noted throughout her entire career, with at least two more comebacks experienced by her since. At the age of 75, Cher remains a highly respected figure, having sold more than 100 million records and winning countless awards. She receives credit for inspiring numerous artists within the industry today.
Tom Skerritt | 25/8/1933 | 88
Tom Skerritt is an actor well-known for his ‘outdoor’ looks. Born in Detroit, he served in the United States Air Force for four years after graduating from high school. After graduating with a degree from UCLA, Skerritt made his debut in War Hunt in 1962. He then appeared in notable films such as M*A*S*H, Big Bad Mama, and Ice Castles. Perhaps his most memorable role was as Captain Arthur Dallas in Alien in 1979. He reportedly got a payment equivalent to one-half percent of the film’s box-office ratings, around $106.3 million. More importantly, this earned him $5.31 million, which is worth around $18 million today.
Another notable role that Skerritt played was Jimmy Brock, the sheriff in the series Picket Fence. Through his role, he won an Emmy and received numerous Emmy and Golden Globe nominations. Today, Skerritt remains active, with his latest project being East of the Mountains, released in 2021. Aside from acting, Skerritt has made an investment in establishing his digital media company, Heyou Media.
Dirk Benedict | 1/3/1944 | 76
Dirk Benedict has been a well-known actor and writer. Born in Montana to an accountant mother and a lawyer father, he grew up in the state and graduated from Whitman College in Washington State in 1967. Benedict made his debut in 1972 in the film Georgia, Georgia. His first leading role was in Chopper One in 1974. He got his big break, starring as Lieutenant Starbuck in the original Battlestar Galactica in 1978. He appeared as the character in both the movie and the following TV series.
In the iconic series The A-Team, aside from his role in Battlestar Galactica, his other notable role was as the con-man Templeton Peck, known as Faceman. After Battlestar Galactica and The A-Team ended, he ventured into more varied TV, film, and theater roles. Since then, he has remained active, with his latest appearance in Space Ninjas in 2019. Aside from acting, Benedict has authored two books titled, And Then We Went Fishing and Confessions of a Kamikaze Cowboy.
Britt Ekland | 6/8/1942 | 78
Britt Ekland has been successful in both her native Sweden and in the United States. She began her career in the 1960s, appearing in minor and uncredited roles. Her first on-screen role was in G.I. Blues in 1960. Her marriage to famous actor Peter Sellers in 1964 increased her profile dramatically. Moreover, she also appeared alongside Sellers in A Carol for Another Christmas, The Bobo, and After the Fox. Even as they separated in 1968, Ekland was on her way to even greater fame.
She then established herself as a sex symbol during the 1970s, starting with Get Carter. Her most prominent role was in the 1973 horror flick The Wicker Man. She became a Bond girl through her appearance in the James Bond film The Man with the Golden Gun. While the film received a mixed reception, she credited her appearance there for cementing her status as a blonde bombshell. Since then, she has ventured into theater and television in Sweden, Britain, and America.
Joe Pesci | 9/2/1943 | 78
Joe Pesci has been an icon of Hollywood for years. Born in Newark, New Jersey, to parents of Italian descent, he was pretty active in acting since he was five. The aspiring actor initially worked as part of a comedy duo and Frank Vincent from 1970 to 1976. Pesci began his professional acting career in the early 1970s, with his first appearance in The Death Collector. More importantly, the performance landed him a role in Martin Scorsese’s 1980 film Raging Bull, where he appeared alongside Robert De Niro. Finally, his efforts won him a BAFTA Film Award and got him an Oscar nomination.
His next notable role was in Goodfellas in 1990. Regarded as a classic by many, Pesci’s performance won him an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor. While he has been known for mobster roles, he is no stranger to more goofy ones, with Home Alone being his most well-known acting credit in this regard. Despite his success, he retired from the industry in 1999 to focus on music and life away from the camera. However, he made a reprise in 2017 in the Netflix film The Irishman, which was critically acclaimed.
Faye Dunaway | 14/1/1941 | 80
Faye Dunaway has been a highly accomplished actress for years. Born in Florida, she began her career in the 1960s shortly after graduating with a degree from Boston University. Her first on-screen role was in The Happening in 1967. That same year, she rose to prominence with her portrayal of outlaw Bonnie Parker in Bonnie and Clyde, where she got her first Oscar nomination. She subsequently appeared in notable films such as The Thomas Crown Affair, The Three Musketeers, and Chinatown. She won an Oscar in 1976 for her performance in Network.
Later in her career, she took on more mature roles, often in independent films. Among them include Mommie Dearest, The Handmaid’s Tale, and Don Juan DeMarco. At the same time, she found success in theater. Despite a hiatus in the 2000s, she returned to acting in 2016 and remains so since. Despite her relatively high profile, she has been known for keeping much of her personal life private.
Sharon Stone | 10/3/1958 | 63
Sharon Stone has been an iconic fashion symbol for decades. Born in Pennsylvania, she started modeling after being convinced to drop out of her college studies. Stone signed on to Ford Models in New York. She moved to Europe to continue her career there. The young model subsequently worked for commercials and print ads. However, a few years later, the budding runway talent decided to end her modeling career to focus instead on acting. Stone made her acting debut in 1980 and then made appearances in films and TV series throughout the decade like Above the Law, King Solomon’s Mines, and Bay City Blues.
During the 1990s, Stone started to gain attention. Her performance in Total Recall was well-liked by both audiences and critics. However, her risqué role as serial killer Catherine Tramell in Basic Instinct made her famous. Other films and TV series Stone starred in include Casino, Bobby, and Ratched. Throughout her career, she won an Emmy and a Golden Globe, and an Oscar nomination. In later years, she went back to college to finish her degree, which she did in 2016.
Tyne Daly | 21/2/1946 | 75
Tyne Daly has been a well-known figure on television for years. Born in Wisconsin, she has two young sisters and a brother, Tim, an actor. Her first acting credit was in Foreign Intrigue in 1954. She mainly appeared in minor roles in various TV shows throughout the 1960s and 1970s, with her appearance in Intimate Strangers gaining her an Emmy nomination. Daly rose to fame for her role as Mary Beth Lacey on Cagney & Lacey. Her role in the well-known TV series won her four Emmys for Outstanding Lead Actress.
After the series had ended in 1988, she found more success in the 1990s. Her appearance on Wings and Christy won her another Emmy, in addition to numerous Emmy nominations. In the 2000s, she became known as Maxine Gray in Judging Amy, where she won another Emmy and countless accolades. Today, Daly remains active on television. Daly also starred on the big screen, with her most notable ones include Spider-Man: Homecoming, A Bread Factory, Part One, and A Bread Factory, Part Two.
Karen Grassle | 02/25/1942 | 79
Karen Grassle rose to fame in the ’70s for starring in the Little House on the Prairie TV series. She played the role of Caroline Ingalls. The series premiered in 1974 and ran for nine seasons. Moreover, some of the other works that Grassle is famously known for include Harry’s War and Wyatt Earp. She also starred in several TV films, such as Crisis on Mid Air and One Man’s Seduction.
Apart from acting, Karen is also known for being the founder of Sante Fe’s Resource Theater Company. The Driving Miss Daisy actress also taught at the College of Santa Fe and the University of California at Berkley. She has also worked with the Actors Theater of Louisville before moving to the Bay Area in 2006. There, she continued to focus her investments on performing in theater productions. Recently, an announcement came that the actress would release her memoir, Bright Lights, Prairie Dust.
Michael J. Fox | 06/09/1961 | 60
Michael J. Fox OC was one of the prominent stars of Hollywood. He gained a certain degree of widespread recognition back in the ’80s, starring in Family Ties. Simultaneously, he starred in a string of box-office hits, including the classic sci-fi trilogy Back to the Future. He also starred in Teen Wolf, Casualties of War, and The Secret of My Success. He continued to build upon his legacy during the ’90 and starred in the TV show Spin City and the film The Frighteners.
In the late ’90s, Fox started to take fewer and fewer roles. He disclosed that he was battling Parkinson’s Disease since the beginning of the early ’90s. The Canadian-American actor subsequently founded the Michael J. Fox Foundation to help research the possible cures of the disease. Fox continued to guest star in TV shows such as Rescue Me and The Good Wife before retiring from acting in 2020 due to his declining health. Nonetheless, his achievements in the industry cemented themselves in stone, and he has all the esteemed accolades to show for it.
David James Elliot | 09/21/1960 | 60
David William Smith is a native of Ontario, Canada. He spent his formative years playing in a band and aspired to become a rock star. Eventually, Smith finished his formal studies at Ryerson University in Toronto before moving to Los Angeles to pursue acting. There he would take up the stage name of David James Elliot. One of his early appearances includes The Police Academy 3: Back in Training in 1986 and in the TV series Street Legal during the early ’90s.
In 1995, Elliot would land his career-defining role of Harmon Rabb Jr, a naval-aviator and a JAG lawyer, in the critically acclaimed series JAG. He starred in the series for over ten years while simultaneously starring in Clockwatchers, The Shrink Is in, and Stanley’s Gig. After the season finale of JAG, the actor would continue to star in TV shows such as Close to Home, The Guard, and Knights of Bloodsteel. He also took credit for starring in 2010’s series Scoundrels.
Jacqueline White | 11/27/1922 | 98
Jacqueline White is a famous veteran of Hollywood. She was born in raised in California and is even childhood friends with fellow actress Lyn Merrick. Her film debut was rooted in the investments of her university, UCLA, in the production Ah! Wilderness, which led to her appearing in the film Song of Russia in 1944. From there, she would frequently appear on B-rated movies and would land the occasional supporting role in big-budgeted films. Eventually, she would find herself under Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer and RKO.
Her well-known films include Crossfire, The Narrow Margin, Air Raid Wardens, and Return of the Bad Men. Outside of acting, she married Bruce Anderson in 1948. Together, they relocated to Wyoming, and she would retire from acting altogether. Her husband started an oil business, and they would have four children together. White would continue to occasionally appear at film conventions, which included 2013’s TCM Classic Film Festival. She is currently 98 years old resides in Houston, Texas, with her family.
Diana Ross | 03/26/1944 | 77
Diana Ross is amongst the legends of the music industry. She is a native of Detriot who rose to fame as the lead singer of the Motown all-female group The Supremes. They were amongst the flagship investments of Motown, and to this day, fans still consider them one of the best-selling girl groups worldwide. They had multiple chart-topping hit singles that include Love Child and Where Did Our Love Go.
In the ’70s, the singer-songwriter parted ways with the iconic girl group and would venture on with her solo career. She would embark on a rise to the top of the music industry and make a viable reputation for herself in the film industry. Her studio albums would sell millions worldwide, and she would be known for hit songs such as Everything is Everything, Still Waiting, Endless Love, and Chain Reaction, among many others. She would star in box-office hits such as Lady Sings the Blues and The Wiz in the same light.
Max Baer Jr. | 12/04/1937 | 83
Max Baer Jr is a veteran actor of the Hollywood industry. He is currently 83 years old, born in Oakland, California, back in 1937. His father is boxing champion Max Baer sr. He spent his younger years as a golfer and would eventually graduate with a degree in Business Administration at Santa Clara University.
Max began his acting career in 1960 under Warner Brothers. He appeared in TV shows such as Maverick, Hawaiian Eye, and 77 Sunset Strip. However, it wouldn’t be until Max joined the show The Beverly Hillbillies cast that the young actor would finally earn widespread recognition. He played the role of Jethro Bodine and appeared on the program for nine years. After the series got canceled in 1971, Max focused his attention on feature films and subsequently wrote, produced, and starred in the 1974 movie Macon County Line. It was a huge box office success and earned over $25 million. His last film was in 1979 on the comedy Hometown USA. The actor then retired from the industry altogether, apart from making guest appearances on TV shows.
Alan Alda | 01/28/ 1936 | 85
Alan Alda is a decorated actor in Hollywood. He is a veteran of the industry and is currently 85 years old. He took the credit for tons of industry awards through the years, including six Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe Award.
The American actor started his career back in the ’50s as a Compass Players member. He also joined the Cleveland Play House and would perform in several of their theater productions. He continued to perform on stage and would also garner much-deserved recognition on TV after landing a role on the TV adaptation of MASH. Here, he would play the role of Hawkeye Pierce and would be awarded five Emmy Awards for his performances. Apart from this, Alda would also be known for starring in West Wing and Tina Fey’s 30 Rock. He also has had a successful run as a film actor in the same light, starring in films such as Same Time, Next Year, and Bridge of Spies.
Loni Anderson | 08/05/1945 | 76
Lomi Anderson was a famous Hollywood TV actress who rose to fame back in the ’70s. She started her career during the late-’60s and debuted for a minor role in the film Nevada Smith, which starred Steve Mcqueen. She would struggle to find other parts for a decade but finally appear in TV shows during the mid-’70s. Some of the shows include SWAT, Harry O, Police Woman, and Phyllis. However, her breakthrough role came in 1978 in the series WKRP in Cincinnati.
Moreover, she played the part of Jennifer Marlowe, a sultry receptionist. The show eventually garnered a loyal following and was popular among the teenage audience. It ran for four years, but Loi would part ways with the cast in 1980. Apart from acting, Loni was known for her marriage to actor Burt Reynolds. Together, they starred in the comedy movie Stoker Ace back in 1983. She also takes credit for starring in several other films, such as Lonely Guys and All Dogs Go to Heaven.
Jack Nicholson | 04/22/1937 | 84
Jack Nicholson is one of the biggest stars in Hollywood. His long-running career spans over 50 decades, and he is known for playing a wide variety of roles. From action to comedy, and even romance, Jack has done it all, and with a certain degree of success, nonetheless. His celebrated films include One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, Easy Rider, The Shining, Batman, The Departed, Anger Management, A Few Good Men, and Chinatown.
Today, Jack is 84 years old, and through his years in the industry, he received credits for tons of accolades. They include three Academy Awards, six Golden Globes, and an American Film Institute’s Life Achievement Award. Moreover, he is one of only three actors to have won an Oscar for consecutive decades. Outside of acting, he is reputable for being a playboy and still hasn’t settled down. He has six children amongst five different partners. Nicholson’s last known acting role was in the film How Do You Know back in 2010.
Sophia Loren | 09/20/1934 | 86
Sophia Loren was born as the lovely Sofia Villani Scicolone in Rome, Italy. She garnered a certain degree of recognition during her teenage years, entering the Miss Italia beauty pageant of 1950. Sophia would win the title of Miss Elegance in 1950 and subsequently ventured off to start a career in acting. Today, she is 86 years old and is recognizable as the 21st greatest female star of classic Hollywood by the American Film Institute. Moreover, she is amongst the last living stars of the Golden Age of Hollywood.
After her stint as a beauty pageant, she enrolled in acting school. Subsequently, she would land minor roles before becoming one of Paramount’s assets. She entered a five-picture deal with the studio, and it would effectively launch her career in the industry. Sophia is known for films such as Marriage Italian Style, The Voyage, Sunflower, and A Special Day. The beauty queen continues to be active in the industry, and her last film was in 2020, titled The Life Ahead.
Nancy Sinatra | 06/08/1940 | 81
Nancy Sinatra is the daughter of the legendary Frank Sinatra. Like her father, she would make a name for herself as an actress and singer in the music industry. Sinatra began her career back in the late-’50s, appearing on Frank’s variety show on ABC-TV. However, she would first garner a certain degree of dame over in Europe and Japan. Her early international successes were her hit single These Boots Are Made For Walkin’ back in 1966. It included a promo of the young singer sporting her signature boots while accompanied by an ensemble of go-go dancers. Today, her signature look takes consideration to be the iconic Swinging Sixties Look.
Some of Nancy’s hit songs include Sugar Town and Something Stupid. The latter is the title song of James Bond’s You Only Live Twice, which she performed as a duet with her father. During the ’60s, Nancy would also appear in several films such as The Wild Angels and Speedway, in which she starred alongside Elvis Presley. She also appeared alongside her father in the 1965 comedy film Marriage on the Rocks.
Lou Ferrigno | 11/09/1951 | 72
Lou Ferrigno Sr is a famous American actor, bodybuilder, and fitness trainer. After graduating from high school, he won his first bodybuilding title as Mr. America in 1969. Four years after, he would win Mr. Universe. Back in those days, he was also known for training alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger, the subject of the critically acclaimed documentary Pumping Iron of 1977.
Although garnering a degree of international acclaim after winning titles in the world of bodybuilding, it wasn’t a lucrative career. Lou worked several jobs before leaving bodybuilding behind. He even had a stint as a defensive lineman for Toronto Argonauts in the Canadian Football League. However, his big success came in 1977 when he starred in the hit TV show Incredible Hulk. It was a commercial success and spawned three TV movies. Lou would then return to bodybuilding in the ’90s and would go on to compete for the title of Mr. Olympia in 1993 and 1994. His attempt at the 1994 Masters Olympia was the subject of another documentary released in 1996, titled Stand Tall.
Bob Barker | 12/12/1923 | 97
The Price Is Right may have already found a new host, but we cannot possibly shy away from the fact that Bob Barker was the man of the show. For over 30 years of hosting the syndicated program, he has undoubtedly entertained and helped many people who wanted to receive a little bit of luck the show brings. However, before hosting the game show where contestants have to guess the price, he already proved to be an extraordinary host from the long-running game show Truth or Consequences.
A little background, Robert William Barker was born on December 12, 1923, in Darrington, Washington. Shortly after celebrating his 50th anniversary on television in 2007, he officially retired. To his credit, Robert has 19 Emmy Awards and hails as Time Magazine’s Greatest Game Show Host of All-Time. After announcing his inevitable retirement, he spent most of his time advocating animal welfare and even saw reports of donating millions to various charities.
Sam Elliott | 08/09/1944 | 77
Although we rarely see him on TV and in films, every time he received a role, he always performed an exceptional performance, regardless of whether it’s a major or minor role. Distinguished by his full mustache, including his deep, resonating voice, he is a veteran actor with extensive acting credits. Moreover, that includes box office hits The Golden Compass, Ghost Rider, and the recent A Star is Born. His supporting role received nominations from various award shows such as Academy and SAG Awards.
As of 2021, Samuel Pack Elliott is 77 years old and was born on August 9, 1944, in Sacramento, California. His acting journey started in the late 1960s and pretty much became his source of income. The industry he’s been in is where he met his wife Katharine Moss, with whom he shared a single child, a daughter named Cleo Rose.
Ali Macgraw | 04/01/1939 | 81
For starters, Elizabeth Alice MacGraw, popularly known as Ali MacGraw, was born in Pound Ridge, New York, on April 1, 1939. Before working for the cameras, she worked professionally at Harper’s Bazaar as Diana Vreeland’s photographic assistant, then as a photographer’s stylist and fashion model for Vogue. In 1969, MacGraw received her first leading role for Goodbye, Columbus, and immediately gained recognition from the Golden Globes by giving her Most Promising Newcomer award. Following the film’s success was a more notable one, the 1970 film Love Story, where she acted opposite Ryan O’Neal. Despite not winning the desirable Academy Award for Best Actress, she took home the equivalent award at the Golden Globes.
Macgraw is undoubtedly a talented actress. However, she only showed her acting prowess in less than a dozen films, sometimes years between. For instance, even though her 1972 film The Getaway was highly successful, it took over five years before her next. Meanwhile, her last movie appearance was for the 1999 film Get Bruce.
Robert Redford | 08/18/1936 | 85
When striking looks and incomparable degree of talent combine into one being, Robert is the product. Charles Robert Redford Jr. is an actor and director who was born on August 18, 1936. He can be considered the Brad Pitt of yesterday, not to mention their uncanny resemblance. He is rarely seen on screen nowadays, but during his youthful years, he is unstoppable! He is known for his award-winning projects, including the 1980 film Ordinary People. He received Best Director from the Academy Awards and Inside Daisy Clover, where Robert won a Golden Globe Award. Other unforgettable films he starred in are The Way We Were and All the President’s Men.
Currently, because of his unfathomable contribution in the showbiz industry, in addition to his humanitarian efforts, he was already awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom given by the national government, the Cecil B. DeMille Award from the Golden Globes, and a lifetime achievement award from the Academy.
Philip Michael Thomas | 05/26/1949 | 72
As an introduction to this splendid actor and musician, he was born on May 26, 1949, making him 72, as of 2021. He started acting in the 1970s, particularly in some equally forgotten films, including Coonskin and Sparkle. Though the decade was kind enough for his career to bloom, nothing beats the 1980s, especially when Miami Vice’s crime drama started airing in 1984. Thomas played the role of Ricardo Tubbs and starred alongside Don Johnson. This project indeed brought fame and fortune to him, but his career started failing when the show ended in 1989.
Meanwhile, if you were able to play the popular video game Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, Philip is the voice for Lance Vance. Also, he takes the credit for making the popular acronym EGOT famous, which stands for Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony — awards that he’d like to have but failed even to be nominated.
Joanne Woodward | 02/27/193 | 90
Joanne Gignilliat Trimmier Woodward was born on a lovely day on February 27, 1930, in Thomasville, Georgia. She was once a very famous American actress in Hollywood, a producer, and philanthropist, but presumably, she’s been inactive because of her age, 91 years old. During her prime years, her name was always on movie posters and often nominated for her magnificent acting in most major award shows. To her credit, she has an Academy Award, three Golden Globes, and three Primetime Emmys. Some of her notable films are The Three Faces of Eve, Rachel, Rachel, and Summer Wishes, Winter Dreams, while her made-for-television movies Do You Remember Love and See How She Runs also contributed trophies on the shelf.
Joanne is the wife of the late Paul Newman, who is as famous and talented. The couple tied a destined knot in 1958 and had three stunning daughters, two of which, Nell and Melissa, followed their footsteps and also became actresses.
Richard Chamberlain | 03/31/1934 | 87
He is an actor and singer born in Beverly Hills, California, on March 31, 1934. A teen star became widely known for the TV series Dr. Kildare, which aired from 1961 to 1966. The long-running series gave him his first major award, a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Television Series Drama. In addition, he has acting credits in a list of made-for-television movies, including The Bourne Identity and Wallenberg: A Hero’s Story, where he again received nominations from the Golden Globes and Primetime Emmy Awards.
Surprisingly, for the miniseries on ABC, The Thorn Birds, Chamberlain delivered another speech after winning an unsurprising achievement of a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a miniseries or Television Film. In 2003, he confirmed what the media had been speculating — his homosexuality — through his autobiography Shattered Love: A Memoir. Meanwhile, he was romantically linked with actor Wesley Eure and had a lengthy relationship with Martin Rabbett.
Grace Jones | 05/19/1948 | 73
Indeed, the celebrity is far from her glory days, but her legacy remains. She is a Jamaican-American singer-songwriter, model, and actress who has investments in almost every aspect of pop culture, whether in music, acting, or fashion; she always puts on a show. As a singer, Billboard placed her at the 40th spot for the most extraordinary dance club artist in history, while VH1 ranked her at number 82 in 100 Greatest Women of Rock and Roll. She appeared in a handful of box office hits as an actress, including Conan the Destroyer and A View to a Kill. Meanwhile, as a model, she already worked with famous fashion houses, including Kenzo and Yves St. Laurent, while she also graced the magazine covers of Vogue and Elle.
Grace Beverly Jones OJ was born on the 19th of May 1948 in Spanish Town, St. Catherine, British Jamaica. Since 1996, she has been married to Atila Altaunbay but had her only child with Jean-Paul Goude.
Barbara Mandrell | 12/25/1948 | 72
Born on December 25, 1948, she is a fantastic country music singer, actress, and musician, Barbara Mandrell. At the height of her glorious career in the 1970s and 1980s, hits came out one after the other, including the fan-favorite Sleeping Single in a Double Bed (If Loving You Is Wrong) I Don’t Want to Be Right. Moreover, while many considered her signature song to be, I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool. No wonder she has also accumulated a table full of awards such as two Grammy Awards, four Country Music Association Awards, and seven American Music Awards.
In 1997, at the famous Grand Ole Opry House, Barbara had her last bow and later announced her retirement. In 2009, the induction happened as she officially became a part of the Country Music Hall of Fame. Meanwhile, she never worked for a divorce attorney as she was happily married to Ken Dudney since 1967, and they had three children from their union.
Joan Van Ark | 06/16/1943 | 78
As of 2021, Joan Van Ark is already 78 years old as she was born on June 16, 1943. Throughout her long life, she has done so much and inspired many from her works. Her career started in the 1960s but became notable for the soap opera in primetime called Knots Landing, a spin-off of another long-running series Dallas. The show lasted for 14 seasons, but Joan reprises her role of Valene Ewing Gibson Waleska for 13 consecutive seasons. However, before being a mainstay in the show, she honed her skills in Broadway by acting in small production plays. Surprisingly, these include the likes of Barefoot in the Park and The School for Wives, with the latter responsible for a Tony Award.
Outside showbiz, she is the wife of John Marshall, a news reporter, and a mother to a single child, Vanessa Marshall, who also has an investment in the same industry as her parents.
Tina Turner | 11/26/1939 | 81
It’s not like the musician remains in forgotten memory, but she is probably enjoying her life after decades of hard work. Not to mention that she is already in her 80s. She is considered the Queen of Rock N’ Roll and undoubtedly one of the greatest artists in the music industry. Anna Mae Bullock, her real name, was born on November 26, 1939, and though she had a rough childhood, her talent became her weapon to weather every challenge. Tina initially rose to fame as the lead singer of the Ike & Tina Turner Revue. Later, she pursued a solo career and became the artist we know today.
Turner only had one chart-topping single, What’s Love Got to Do with It, but it gave her the envied Grammy Award for Record of the Year, one of 12 trophies to her credit. Other unforgettable tunes from her are We Don’t Need Another Hero and the song we played every night and day, Proud Mary.
Johanna Tukiainen | 07/29/1978 | 43
She is a former TV personality and singer from Finland who found fame due to controversy involving Finland’s foreign minister Ilkka Kanerva. According to a news report, the government official had been messaging her suggesting sexual intent. Johanna surprisingly sold the text messages to Hymy, a local tabloid magazine. Consequently, Ilkka experienced unwarranted pressure to resign by the National Coalition Party, though he was initially reluctant to do so.
Later, she received convictions for various criminal charges such as drunk driving and multiple assaults, which made her lawyer scratch his head. Aside from her problems with the law, she also faced financial difficulties, mainly owing to a whopping €60,000 from several sources. Fortunately, she was able to get back up and worked as a singer and dancer at various bars and establishments. Surprisingly, she also became a redeemed Christian and now lives in Sweden with her partner and beautiful daughter.
Donatella Versace | 05/02/1955 | 66
Born on May 2, 1955, Donatella Francesca Versace is widely known for being the sister and one of the heiresses of the late Gianni Versace, the founder of the fashion brand Versace. Upon the unexpected passing of her brother back in 1997, Versace successfully managed the company that became one of the most reputable brands when it comes to luxurious living. With her leadership, the brand won various awards, including the 2008 FGI Superstar Award and Fashion Icon of the Year award by the British Fashion Council in 2017. In addition, she has already lent her creative skills with various advertising campaigns for the company that involved huge stars like Madonna, Beyoncé, and Jennifer Lopez.
Unfortunately, she already sold her shares to Capri Holdings, which is a company owned by another fashion mogul, Michael Kors, but Versace still remains as the brand’s chief creative officer. According to Celebrity Net Worth, her investment in the fashion company gave her a whopping $400 million fortune.
Andrew Keegan | 1/29/1979 | 42
Andrew Keegan played “the boyfriend” in TV shows until he landed a role in 10 Things I Hate About You. He began his career as a newborn, starring in print advertising for Gerber baby goods. Moreover, he is the son of a voice-over actor from Nebraska and a stylist from Colombia, a mixed lineage that has given him his slightly exotic dark good looks.
Keegan played Joey in the famous film and immediately became a household name. Fans of Sabrina the Teenage Witch may recall him as the lovely but nerdy Magic Joel from the first season of the beloved program. Keegan also had roles in Baywatch, Full House, 7th Heaven, and a slew of other shows. His post-10 Things credits, on the other hand, have been somewhat different. Keegan is still acting, with his most recent parts in the TV show Trinkets and the film Adverse at the time of writing, and he still does press and red carpets regularly.
Marla Sokoloff | 12/19/1980 | 40
Marla Sokoloff had built her brand and name in front of the camera since 1993. Her early achievements were in music, even though she rose to recognition as an actor. Her acting triumphs came quickly and grew in quick succession since she altered her concentration at a young age. Sokoloff set the tone early in her adolescence with a series of high-profile television performances. She landed the role that made her famous – Lucy Hatcher on The Practice from 1997 to 2004.
Sokoloff continued to display her versatility even after the show ended, with frequent appearances on television and in the music industry. Since then, she has appeared in several award-winning programs, including Friends, Desperate Housewives, and Grey’s Anatomy. Sokoloff also appeared in the Netflix original series Fuller House and the films Summer in the City and Do You Take This Man. Outside her film and music investments, she also found herself as a producer and director.
Tahj Mowry | 5/17/1986 | 35
Tahj Mowry has made a degree as a top actor who’s performed in both film and television. He is known for his role as TJ on the television show Smart Guy. The show was well-received on the Disney channel and was well-liked by viewers. Moreover, he’s also known for his role as Michael’s best friend Teddy on Full House. Similarly, he has received a lot of praise and love from fans for several concerts.
Mowry began acting at the age of four and has since blossomed into a gifted performer. When children his age were learning to verbalize their basic desires, Mowry was out in front of the camera, picking up parts and playing new personalities. Interestingly, he appeared as Greg in the episode Who is Minding the Kid on Who is the Boss and has stated that he aspired to be more than just an actor, as he is not one to be happy with little. With a penchant for singing, he has expanded his artistic horizons even further and began to pursue a singing career.
Barry Watson | 4/23/1974 | 47
Barry Watson reinforced his image as the all-American good guy (with fantastic hair) by playing Matt Camden on 7th Heaven. Fans certainly adored it, and executives soon came to admire not only the hair but also the actor who displayed incredible fortitude and courage in the face of impending disaster.
Watson played a significant acting credit in the show’s meteoric rise to fame. Unfortunately, an unexpected diagnosis of Hodgkin’s illness brought things crashing down in 2002 – just as he was reaching the pinnacle of his career in the series and seemed to have cleared the road for far more essential things for himself. Watson battled back and overcame the sickness with incredible bravery. He then returned to acting by guest-starring in the last seasons of 7th Heaven and then starring in shows like What About Brian and Samantha Who?. Since then, Watson has worked in several supporting roles on television and in films.
Jason Behr | 12/30/1973 | 47
Jason Behr made his highest debut as one of three aliens posing as high school students in Roswell. He is no stranger to the WB, having guest-starred on the blockbuster Buffy the Vampire Slayer back in 1997. He also became a part of Dawson’s Creek during the 1998-99 season as the overconfident but slightly silly school stud Chris.
Behr got his first acting experience at the age of five in a school production, wherein he played a sunflower. He began working on a few professional projects three years later, including ads for Stomper Trucks. Behr did more commercial work during this time before landing one of his first television roles in Sherman Oaks. He went on to work on various independent films from the late 1990s to the early 2000s. His most recent film investments have been on television, including The Way, Company Man, and Matadors. Behr had a recurring role in the television show Breakout Kings in 2012, appearing in five episodes.
Eliza Dushku | 12/30/1980 | 40
Eliza Dushku rose to fame thanks to her roles in youth-oriented television shows like Buffy the Vampire Slayer and films like Bring It On and Wrong Turn. She began her career as an adolescent with minor roles in True Lies and Bye Bye Love, but Buffy creator Joss Whedon offered her a breakout role as rebellious Slayer Faith on his popular horror adventure show.
Its success resulted in a slew of sequels in the early years of the new millennium, but television seemed to pique the actress’s attention. However, Tru Calling was canceled after only two seasons, while Dollhouse barely survived cancellation after its premiere. Aside from performing in front of the camera, she is also known for her voice work. Dushku provided the voices for several popular video games and animated programs. She has also recently appeared in the TV series Bull and Banshee and The Black Company. Dushku’s popularity with fans remained high, ensuring her degree as one of Hollywood’s most appealing young actors.
Jenna von Oy | 5/2/1977 | 44
Jenna von Oy is best known for portraying Six LeMeure, the main character’s charming and outspoken best friend in Blossom. This gifted actress began her career as a kid performer, where she played Molly the orphan in a theater version of Annie when she was just five years old. Her acting ability, however, was not the only one she possessed at such a young age. She is also a songwriter, having written her first song, Little Pollywoggy, at age four.
Von Oy is a booming voice-over artist in addition to being a successful actor and songwriter. She voiced Trinket St. Blair in the animated series Pepper Ann during the run of The Parkers. In 2005, she imitated Alexis Bledel’s character Rory Gilmore in the Family Guy episode Perfect Castaway. She also provided the voices of Stacey in A Goofy Movie and Gracie in Dr. Dolittle. Von Oy has had a tremendous television career and has been in several noteworthy films. She now lives a calm life in her investment home in Nashville, Tennessee, enjoying her time away from the spotlight.
Beverley Mitchell | 1/22/1981 | 40
Beverley Mitchell rose to fame as Lucy Camden on The WB’s famous family drama 7th Heaven. With the part came thousands of young fans who identified with her sweet but flawed character. Mitchell has a long list of small-screen credits to her name, starting with commercials (notably in an Oscar Mayer Bun Size frankfurter advertisement).
Mitchell began acting as a child in the early ‘90s on the show Big Brother Jake. She previously starred in the 1996 film The Crow: City of Angels before joining the cast of 7th Heaven. Mitchell has since acted in several made-for-TV movies, including the Frank Sinatra miniseries and the horror picture Saw 2 back in 2005. A country music enthusiast, Mitchell spent her time in Nashville, working on her debut album when she wasn’t filming 7th Heaven. The album was published on Daywind in 2007 and was titled, Beverley Mitchell. More recently, she also appeared in the film The Secret Life of the American Teenager.
Robert Iler | 3/2/1985 | 36
Robert Iler started show business when talent management firm J. Mitchell Management spotted him and cast him in a Pizza Hut commercial. While he scored his first film credit at the tender age of 13, it appears that the acting bug never really bit the brilliant child. That may come as a surprise since Iler continued to secure consistent work throughout his time away from the show. He earned supporting roles in films like Tadpole, Daredevil, and The Dead Zone.
After The Sopranos finished, Iler took a break from acting for a few years. He then landed a role on Law & Order back in 2009, but his acting career has been nothing but crickets since then. As luck would have it, poker was the catalyst for Iler’s return to the spotlight. In 2017, Iler resurfaced on the Hollywood scene when he appeared in the trailer for 4 Kings. While we wait and see what happens with 4 Kings, reruns of The Sopranos appear to be the most excellent way to catch up on Iler.
Jamie-Lynn Sigler | 5/15/1981 | 40
Jamie-Lynn Sigler was born for the stage from a young age. His mother agreed to her request for dance classes when she was three years old, and she enrolled her daughter in a dance school. Sigler began taking singing and acting lessons at the age of nine, and by the age of ten, she was acting in community theater performances in her birthplace of Long Island.
Most fans recognize Sigler as Meadow Soprano from HBO’s highly famous series The Sopranos. Moreover, she’s also been in several television episodes like Ugly Betty and Guys with Kids. Sigler also ventured into the music scene with tracks like Cry Baby and Bada Bing. However, during the prominent degree of her career, she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Initially, the actress kept her diagnosis a secret and spent the next 15 years fighting the neurological disease alone. She confirmed that she has MS back in 2016 and has been a strong advocate for others with the disease ever since.
Lacey Chabert | 9/30/1982 | 38
The majority of Hollywood’s child performers mature in front of the world’s eyes. Lacey Chabert, a dedicated and intelligent young woman, was an excellent example. She is best known for her portrayal of Claudia Salinger on Party of Five.
As a child, Chabert and her sisters performed in several stage plays and singing programs, and she had always aspired to be a performer. She gradually worked her way into the film industry and starred in several films, both as a protagonist and a supporting character. Her adaptability helped her land gigs with well-known brands, including DC Comics, Nickelodeon, and Hallmark. She appeared in Lost in Space, Mean Girls, Ghosts of Girlfriends Past, and Christian Mingle. Chabert has also lent her voice to several iconic animated characters, including Eliza Thornberry in The Wild Thornberrys and Young Vitani in The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride. With almost 100 credits to her record, there’s no doubting that the actress has been busy.
Jonathan Taylor Thomas | 9/8/1981 | 39
Jonathan Taylor Thomas rose to fame as the mischievous middle son Randy on Home Improvement. He was called “JTT” by young fans and received a slew of kid-friendly accolades, including a Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Award. Thomas stayed on the show until he left the program “to go to school, travel, and take a breather.”
Thomas also voiced Spot in The Adventures of Spot and Young Simba in The Lion King. He continued to string his film investments with Tom and Huck, Speedway Junky, and In Living Colors. Due to his self-imposed acting hiatus back in the 2000s, his TV and film credits shrank, but he still appeared in Smallville, The Simpsons, and 8 Simple Rules. Richardson had stated that he was working on “a fantastic pilot” in 2016, but the project never materialized as Thomas appeared to prefer not to be in the spotlight. He remained one of many viewers’ favorite crushes, leading many to hope that he might make a comeback as an adult at some point.
Jaleel White | 11/27/1976 | 44
Jaleel White rose to fame as the hilariously funny Steve Urkel on Family Matters. White’s alter-ego went from being a one-episode guest star to a series-conquering supernova, spawning a slew of merchandise and catchphrases, like “Did I do that?” Moreover, White won three Image Awards for his work, demonstrating a fantastic versatility and knack for physical comedy. Yet, the character was so well-known in pop culture that it was difficult for him to escape typecasting when the show ended.
After earning his college degree, he voiced Sonic the Hedgehog on numerous animated series adaptations. White impressed audiences with cameos in Dreamgirls, Judy Moody, and Not Bummer Summer. He slowly laid the groundwork for a career resurgence. White proved he was a gifted and ambitious performer as he was determined to go beyond his days back when he played his role on Family Matters.
Sherry Stringfield | 6/24/1967 | 54
She is a former TV personality and singer from Finland who found fame due to controversy involving Finland’s foreign minister Ilkka Kanerva. According to a news report, the government official had been messaging her suggesting sexual intent. Johanna surprisingly sold the text messages to Hymy, a local tabloid magazine. Consequently, Ilkka experienced unwarranted pressure to resign by the National Coalition Party, though he was initially reluctant to do so.
Later, she received convictions for various criminal charges such as drunk driving and multiple assaults, which made her lawyer scratch his head. Aside from her problems with the law, she also faced financial difficulties, mainly owing to a whopping €60,000 from several sources. Fortunately, she was able to get back up and worked as a singer and dancer at various bars and establishments. Surprisingly, she became a redeemed Christian and now lives in Sweden with her partner and beautiful daughter.
Dana Carvey | 6/2/1955 | 66
Dana Carvey was behind such note-perfect impressions of figures like George H.W. Bush and Jimmy Stewart on Saturday Night Live. He also made his creations, the zealous Church Lady and Wayne’s sidekick, Garth.
He starred in NBC’s sitcom One of the Boys. Although the play was not well received by reviewers or audiences, it gave him much-needed early exposure in the industry. After a string of appearances in early television roles and cameos in a few films, he joined the cast of SNL in 1986. He appeared in countless show episodes, earning him acclaim for his impersonations of renowned individuals and a vast range of memorable characters. He pursued his dream and made his big-screen debut in the 1992 hit, Wayne’s World. Following his departure, he appeared in several films but failed to achieve the same degree of success as a stand-up comedian. Dana stepped away from the spotlight in the late 1990s to focus on his family and stand-up, but he never lost his status as one of SNL’s most extraordinary talents.
Phoebe Cates | 7/16/1963 | 58
Hollywood in the ’80s brought many teenage newcomers who stole the spotlight, just like Phoebe Cates. The young teenager rose to fame when she received a part in Fast Times at Ridgemont High and Gremlins. Cates continued her acting career to the ’90s with the movie Drop Dead Fred. Though many expected Cates to continue her fast rise to stardom, she stepped back from the limelight by the mid-1990s and disappeared from Hollywood.
What happened to the rising star of Hollywood? Well, she chose family over her fame, especially after marrying fellow actor Kevin Kline. The two met while she was auditioning for the role of Meg Tilly in the film, The Big Chill. They tied the knot in 1989 and had two children. But the actress did not let her husband do all the work. She later used her investment money to build her own Blue Tree business, which is still up and running even today.
Emilio Estevez | 5/12/1962 | 57
Hollywood in the ’80s brought many teenage newcomers who stole the spotlight, just like Phoebe Cates. The young teenager rose to fame when she received a part in Fast Times at Ridgemont High and Gremlins. Cates continued her acting career to the ’90s with the movie Drop Dead Fred. Though many expected Cates to continue her fast rise to stardom, she stepped back from the limelight by the mid-1990s and disappeared from Hollywood.
What happened to the rising star of Hollywood? Well, she chose family over her fame, especially after marrying fellow actor Kevin Kline. The two met while Cates was auditioning for the role of Meg Tilly in the film, The Big Chill. They tied the timely knot in 1989 and had two children. But the actress did not let her husband do all the work. She later used her investment money to build her own Blue Tree business, which is still up and running even today.
Jeff Cohen | 6/25/1974 | 47
The Goonies is one of the famous movies brought to us by Hollywood during the ’80s. The pirate-themed adventure film was a massive success not just to the young ones but to their parents too. The movie’s cast did well, though some of them chose to leave the limelight like Jeff Cohen. The talented actor is reputable for his performance as the adorable Chunk in the film, but he focused on his education rather than pursuing a career in acting.
However, this doesn’t mean that he didn’t do more shows after his sting as Chunk. He also appeared in TV shows like The Facts of Life, Family Ties, and Webster. Cohen later got a law degree that he is now using since he has used his investments to set up Cohen Gardner LLC, where he works as a lawyer for those in the entertainment industry. It seems that he still went back to his roots, but this time in a different capacity.
Kirk Cameron | 10/12/1970 | 50
Kirk Cameron was one of the heartthrobs back in the ’80s, especially after his time in Growing Pains. He even worked with younger Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt when they were their guests in the show. With his rising star status, his success in Hollywood takes solidification. But soon after the show ended, Cameron’s future turned to religion. He did tie the knot with his co-star, Chelsea Noble, and have six kids between them, with four receiving adoptions.
Cameron still acts from time to time, but mostly in Christian-related films. One of them was Fireproof. His latest work was in Monumental: In Search of America’s National Treasure. The actor has put a lot of work and investment into this new film since it is also his first proper breakout as a producer. It is still early in the stages to tell how it will pan out, but it can become a success domestically if his previous efforts go by.
Claudia Wells | 7/5/1966 | 55
Claudia Wells already had an impressive resume thanks to her acting gig in various TV series. Moreover, these include titles such as Simon & Simon and Trapper John, M. D. However, he received the role of Marty McFly’s girlfriend, Jennifer, in the movie, Back to the Future, which made her a household name. The undeniable chemistry between her and Michael J. Fox was palpable, which lend credence to their on-screen relationship. But many were surprised to find that Elisabeth Shue later replaced her. What happened to Wells then?
The actress gave up acting because her mom suddenly received a diagnosis with stage 4 lymphoma. It was a decision she did not have to think twice about. On a good note, the actress could bounce back after, with her second feature being in the film, Still Waters Burn. Wells did not dwell much on the missed opportunity because, to her credit, she set up her own business selling high-end fashion clothing for men that is still ongoing.
Andrew McCarthy | 11/29/1962 | 58
Andrew McCarthy was once a member of the Brat Pack back in the ’80s and with good reason. He was among the young stars that broke ground in Hollywood. McCarthy regularly received roles in rom-coms such as Pretty in Pink, Class, and even St. Elmo’s Fire. With that kind of notoriety, it was surprising that the actor did not pursue a career in Hollywood. He left behind the limelight and focused more on travel writing. Nowadays, he keeps himself busy directing TV shows like Orange Is the New Black.
In his new memoir, Brat: An 80’s Story, the actor admitted how being labeled as one of The Brat Pack affected his career. Though it took him a while to accept what it means to be part of this elite group, to his credit, he is now opening up and owning it after several years. Hopefully, this time around, he will be more open to still being tagged as one of the members of The Brat Pack that ushered a new era in Hollywood.
Rick Moranis | 4/18/1953 | 68
Rick Moranis was one of Hollywood’s famous stars in the ’80s and ’90s but disappeared suddenly from the limelight. The iconic family film Honey, I Shrunk the Kids star did well in his career, but after his wife, Ann Belsky, died due to cancer, he focused on being a single dad, which he did to his credit did exceptionally well. His friends in the film industry did try to woo him back, but he focused his energy on raising his children instead.
Moranis was also part of the hit movie, Ghostbusters, which was one of his iconic roles. It is not surprising then that many were happy to see the actor in a TV commercial and Deadpool star Ryan Reynolds. Thanks to this new ad, it seems that Moranis’ long overdue comeback is about to happen. Rumors have it that the actor will be reprising his role with a new film along with Josh Gad. We can’t wait to see Moranis back in action.
Jami Gertz | 10/28/1965 | 55
Jami Gertz became a household name back in the ’80s as she dominated not just the TV but also the movies. Among the list of projects that she worked on were Crossroads, Quicksilver, and The Lost Boys. On TV, she appeared in shows like Still Standing, Square Pegs, and The Neighbors. The actress also became a philanthropist, and surprisingly, an owner of an NBA team.
Gertz married Antony Ressler, and over the years, the two made quite a fortune for themselves. Ressler is Ares Management LP’s co-founder and CEO, which is now worth billions of dollars. How did she end up being an owner of the Atlanta Hawks? That’s because her husband and Grant Hill joined together to buy the team. Indeed, this was one of the couples’ dreams! Fortunately, their investments were put to good use with the team, with Gertz being their ambassador.
Rick Astley | 2/6/1966 |55
Rick Astley did not believe that his song, Never Gonna Give You Up, will become immortalized over the decades. Though many assumed that he was just a one-hit-wonder kind of musician, Astley had other hits too, like Cry for Help, It Would Take a Strong Strong Man, and Together Forever. But with Astley’s career slowing down over the years, many wondered what happened to him these past few decades.
It seems that Astley’s career saw a revival since he has been trending on various social media platforms. Media sources also saw him singing cover songs, plus he is even working as a guest singer for the Foo Fighters from time to time. To his credit, he certainly made good use of this newfound fame in social media, especially after someone uploaded a remastered version of his hit song, Never Gonna Give You Up, which helped make him become the talk of the town.
Alan Ruck | 7/1/1956 | 65
Alan Ruck first rose to fame when he played Cameron Frye in Ferris Buellers Day Off. He later added a starring role in the films Going Places and The Edge to his work. Over the years, the Cheaper by the Dozen star made more appearances in movies like Twister, Dreamland, The Bronx is Burning, plus he was in Spin City for a few seasons. The actor has four children from his two marriages.
Ruck even reprised his role as Cameron when he made a commercial for a garage door opener using a part of the movie in it. It was one of the best advertisements, with many recalling the iconic film. He has not yet retired from the limelight though he did have a health scare at one point. Fortunately, he has entirely recovered from his illness and is now back in the saddle doing what he loves best. With the investments that he has put into his career, there is no reason for him to stop just yet.
Kelly McGillis | 7/9/1957 | 64
Kelly McGillis made a name for herself for appearing as a flight instructor in the film, Top Gun, starring Tom Cruise and Val Kilmer. It was a smashing success and even became an iconic movie that is still being talked about today. In fact, it had a sequel which was set 34 years after the first one, but McGillis was not in it. Her part went to Jennifer Connelly, which certainly made some fans scratch their heads.
Top Gun is not the only movie that McGillis appeared in because she worked in The Accused and Witness. But the limelight was not something that she planned on staying in for long. With the investment money that she had made as an actress, she used it to become a teacher in acting in North Carolina, where she has been spending most of her time with her two girls.
Ralph Macchio | 11/4/1961 | 59
Who could ever forget Ralph Macchio from the film, The Karate Kid? The film was what propelled him to the limelight back in the ’80s, and with good reason. His portrayal of the downtrodden Daniel LaRusso was compelling, and his fight with the rich kids was epic. But it was one of those productions that will continue to stick with him over the years. Macchio did disappear from Hollywood after that, but it seems that he had a major comeback.
If you haven’t been binge-watching Cobra Kai on Netflix, then it is high time that you do so. The show is a fanfic of Machhio’s movie to continue the story 34 years later. The best part was that several of the original stars from the 80’s movies were present too. To the director and producers’ credit, they stayed true to the characters of Macchio and Zabka but added different angles to their stories.
Haviland Morris | 9/14/1959 | 61
Haviland Morris may not be acting as much as she wants to these days, but she was one of the darlings back in the ’80s, thanks to her role in John Hughes’ film, Sixteen Candles. You might think that this was the only movie she made, but she was also in the highly controversial, Who’s That Girl, where she starred alongside music icon Madonna and other high-profile stars. You should easily spot her too in Home Alone 3 plus Burning Blue. Morris also appeared in One Tree Hill, Law & Order, and The Good Wife outside of films.
After a few decades in Hollywood, Morris finally called it quits and has focused her time and investments into becoming a real estate agent. It seems that she is doing well in this regard, especially with her connections in Hollywood. The actress did leave a mark in Hollywood with her stellar performance, but she is now giving her energy to getting her customers the best deal in real estate.
Jennifer Grey | 3/26/1960 | 61
Dirty Dancing star, Jennifer Grey, became famous for her epic performance on the film and her co-star, Patrick Swayze. But her first film was in The Cotton Club. After her time in Dirty Dancing, Grey also appeared in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, which she co-starred with Matthew Broderick. But her career slowly diminished by the 90s, which is why many were wondering what happened to her. With her personal life, she was married to Avengers star Clark Gregg, who played Agent Coulson.
Though many assumed that she stopped acting, Grey appeared in shows like Friends, and It’s Like, You Know. One of the reasons why many did not notice her was her nose job, which, she admitted, was one of the mistakes she made with her investment money. Grey did not let it stop her as the actress continued to appear in more TV shows like Grey’s Anatomy and The Conners. And to top it all, rumors say that she will be reprising her role in Dirty Dancing with its sequel!
Alicia Silverstone | 10/4/1976 | 44
Clueless star, Alicia Silverstone, was one of the darlings of Hollywood during her heyday. Aside from appearing in three music videos of Aerosmith, the actress also received a significant role in Batman & Robin. But her career slowly died down, which caused her to take a step back from the limelight. She admitted that one of the primary reasons she stopped acting was the pressure that comes with her looks. She reiterated that she wasn’t into becoming famous at all.
But just because she stopped acting, it didn’t mean that she wasn’t busy with other projects. To her credit, she found something that she was good at, and it was cooking. She released her cookbook called The Kind Diet, plus another one related to pregnancy. Since Silverstone hasn’t completely retired from the limelight, we are glad to see her in the reboot of The Baby-Sitters Club, which is streaming on Netflix.
Amanda Bynes | 04/13/1986 | 35
Fans will probably remember Amanda Bynes as the child actress in the hit Nickelodeon sketch comedy series All That and her breakthrough role in The Amanda Show’s spinoff. She used to dominate the said network and was one of the most favorite young stars of her generation. Her stardom continued to rise, and she started to reach incredible prominence in another sitcom, What I Like About You. From here, the now-35-year-old star conquered the big screen with the films What a Girl Wants, Robots, and She’s the Man, and more.
However, the degree of her fame took its toll on her. She struggled in life and even faced legal issues that led to her taking an indefinite hiatus. The actress has been away in the limelight since 2010. Bynes continued her studies, though, and took a course in fashion design. However, a year before she graduated, she expressed her interest in returning to the entertainment scene.
Jennifer Love Hewitt | 02/21/1979 | 42
Jennifer Love Hewitt was one of the most famous stars of the ‘90s. She had conquered the big and small screens and even the airwaves. Moreover, the now-42-year-old star dropped several albums, making her a successful singer back then. Who would ever forget her massive hit BareNaked?
Acting-wise, Hewitt is best known for the 1997 movie I Know What You Did Last Summer. It is now part of the popular culture and gets credits for being in line with the same slasher movie Scream that revitalizes the slasher genre in the ‘90s. However, the time came that Hewitt rarely went under the spotlight. After the movie Jewtopia in 2012, she would appear on the TV series Hot in Cleveland, Criminal Minds, and 9-1-1. Anyhow, fans would once again hear Hewitt’s voice as Gidget in the upcoming movie Pups Alone. In no time, her followers may see her acting on the big screen once again.
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