The world of cinema mourns the loss of Claudia Cardinale, the Tunisian-born Italian actress who captivated audiences for over six decades. Cardinale, who passed away at the age of 87 in Nemours, France, leaves behind a remarkable legacy as a symbol of Italian glamour and a trailblazing actress of the Golden Age of Italian cinema.
Born in Tunisia in 1938 to Sicilian parents, Cardinale's journey to Hollywood stardom began unexpectedly. Winning a beauty contest at just 16, she was thrust into the spotlight, eventually choosing a life in film over her initial aspirations of becoming a teacher. Her early career, however, was marked by hardship, including a traumatic experience that led to a secret pregnancy and motherhood. She raised her son, Patrick, discreetly, and used her earnings to support herself and maintain her independence.
Despite facing challenges—her accent often deemed unsuitable, leading to her voice being dubbed in many Italian films—Cardinale's talent shone through. She rose to international acclaim through collaborations with cinematic giants like Federico Fellini in *8 1/2* and Luchino Visconti in *The Leopard*, two films that solidified her position as a leading lady. Juggling roles in these iconic films, Cardinale vividly recalled the demands of her work, including the need to constantly change her hair color to suit the directors' different visions.
Her career extended to Hollywood, where she starred alongside legendary actors such as Henry Fonda and Charles Bronson in films like Blake Edwards' *The Pink Panther* and Sergio Leone's *Once Upon a Time in the West*. Her time in America also involved navigating the complex social landscape of the era, as she recounted in later interviews, including a story of her concealing the homosexuality of her co-star Rock Hudson to protect his career.
Throughout her career, Cardinale was lauded for her beauty and talent, receiving countless accolades, including a lifetime achievement award at the Berlin Film Festival. Her dedication extended beyond acting; she served as a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador, championing women's rights. Even in her later years, Cardinale continued to act, appearing in the Swiss television series *Bulle* in 2020. Her remarkable career spanned over 150 roles, a testament to her versatility and enduring appeal.
Cardinale's death marks the end of an era. Italian Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli aptly described her as "one of the greatest Italian actresses of all time," embodying Italian grace and leaving an indelible mark on the world of cinema. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations of actors and filmmakers.
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Originally published at: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c237elg3rr3o
