Renowned Italian actress Claudia Cardinale, known for her roles in prominent European films of the 1960s and 1970s, passed away in France at the age of 87, according to her agent. Cardinale’s agent, Laurent Savry, confirmed her death in Nemours, France, where she was surrounded by her children.
Tributes honoring Cardinale’s talent, beauty, and contributions to European cinema flooded in, with French President Emmanuel Macron expressing that the Italian actress will forever hold a special place in the hearts of the French people and cinema lovers worldwide.
With a filmography of over 100 movies and television productions, Cardinale achieved fame for her portrayal of youthful innocence in Federico Fellini’s “8½” alongside Marcello Mastroianni in 1963. She also garnered critical acclaim for her roles in Luchino Visconti’s “The Leopard” and Sergio Leone’s “Once Upon a Time in the West.”
Describing her acting career as an unexpected turn, Italian Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli extended condolences to Cardinale’s family, highlighting her exceptional beauty and talent that left an indelible mark on Italian cinema. Cardinale’s journey into the film industry began at the age of 17 after winning a beauty pageant in Tunisia, leading her to the Venice Film Festival and ultimately launching her acting career.
Despite initial reluctance, Cardinale embraced her cinematic journey, becoming a prominent figure in European and Hollywood cinema. She worked with esteemed directors and actors, including Peter Sellers, David Niven, and Rock Hudson. Notable Hollywood productions featuring Cardinale included “The Pink Panther,” “Blindfold,” and “Don’t Make Waves.”
Acknowledged for her contributions to the film industry, Cardinale received accolades such as a Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the Venice Film Festival and was appointed a goodwill ambassador for the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization in 2000. Throughout her life, Cardinale maintained a versatile career and made significant contributions to the world of cinema.