September 18: Happy Birthday, Greta Garbo

Daughter of working class parents in Stockholm, Sweden, graduate of the Royal Dramatic Theater, Ms. Garbo is also an enigmatic but cherished American film star.  She began in silent films, worked on her English skills, and made the transition into talkies.

Garbo got her start in film in Europe and quickly came to America at the tender age of 19.  She set the tone for her reputation as a private and introverted starlet by telling reporters that her biographical details didn't matter.

But her style won her great and enduring fame as a screen actress.  She can be heard on a few rare and valuable radio broadcasts.  We salute Ms. Garbo's birth on this day in 1905.

March 23: Happy Birthday, Joan Crawford

Today's birthday salute goes to Joan Crawford, born today in 1904.  Crawford's career began kicking in 1924, when she worked as a dancer in traveling revues.  Spotted in a performances, she landed a gig in Innocent Eyes on Broadway.  It wasn't long before she landed her first movie role, in The Circle, and the rest is history.

In 1934, Crawford made her first of many appearance on The Lux Radio Theatre, starring in an adaptation of the 1934 MGM film "Chained."  In 1938 it was "Anna Christie," with Crawford playing the role made famous by Greta Garbo.  She would later star in "A Doll's House" on the same program.

The much-sought actress also lent her talents to Screen Directors' Playhouse, Stars Over Hollywood, Hollywood Star Playhouse, and Suspense.

A happy birthday to Joan Crawford.