Angela Lansbury

Angela Lansbury was the quintessential English rose, if that rose happened to be grown in an Irish garden and then moved to America, blooming into a formidable talent. Born in London to an Irish actress mother and an English politician father, her family tree appears to be devoid of any branches that might lead to the Tribe. This is hardly a surprise, given her public persona, which was decidedly more "village vicar's wife" than "kvetching bubbe."

Despite the complete lack of Jewish bona fides, one cannot deny her enduring appeal and incredible career. From her Oscar-nominated turns in "Gaslight" and "The Manchurian Candidate" to her iconic role as Jessica Fletcher, solving mysteries with a twinkle in her eye and a sensible cardigan, Lansbury consistently delivered performances that were both critically acclaimed and beloved by audiences.

Her longevity and versatility on stage, screen, and television are truly remarkable. She conquered Broadway with roles in "Mame" and "Sweeney Todd," proving that whether she was belting out a show tune or subtly uncovering a killer, she did so with unparalleled grace and professionalism. She was, in short, a legend, though one whose achievements brought nachas more universally than specifically to the Jewish people.