Italian actress Claudia Cardinale, renowned for her roles in prominent European films of the 1960s and 1970s, has passed away at the age of 87 in France, as confirmed by her agent on Wednesday. Cardinale, recognized for her talent and impact on European cinema, received tributes from various quarters, including French President Emmanuel Macron.
Famous for her appearances in over 100 films, Cardinale was particularly acclaimed for her performances in iconic movies such as Federico Fellini’s “8½” in 1963, where she starred alongside Marcello Mastroianni. She also garnered praise for her roles in Luchino Visconti’s “The Leopard” and Sergio Leone’s “Once Upon a Time in the West.”
Starting her acting career at 17 after winning a beauty contest in Tunisia, Cardinale’s path to stardom was unexpected, as she initially aspired to become a schoolteacher. Often compared to Brigitte Bardot and following in the footsteps of Sophia Loren, Cardinale worked with renowned directors in Europe and Hollywood, portraying diverse characters in her films.
Despite some success in Hollywood, Cardinale preferred European cinema and excelled in roles alongside esteemed actors like Peter Sellers, David Niven, and Rock Hudson. She considered “The Professionals” in 1966 as her best Hollywood work and refused exclusive contracts to maintain her European acting roots.
Throughout her career, Cardinale received several accolades, including a Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the Venice Film Festival. In 2000, she was appointed as a goodwill ambassador for UNESCO, advocating for women’s rights. Cardinale leaves behind a lasting legacy in the world of cinema, survived by her children from her relationships with Franco Cristaldi and Italian director Pasquale Squitieri.