In a career spanning more than six decades, the enigmatic Claudia Cardinale lit up the screen with her breathtaking presence.
Not planning on becoming one of the greatest actors of the golden age, Cardinale followed the path to stardom, that was oftentimes paved by trauma.
Outliving the now-deceased Hollywood giants that she once shared the screen, and still going strong at 86, she says “cinema saved my life.”
Keep reading to learn more about this starlet and what she’s doing today!
As an iconic actress, Claudia Cardinale has left an indelible mark on Italian and international film. Her talent, beauty, and versatility allowed her to portray a wide range of complex and memorable characters throughout her career.
But audiences enjoyed seeing Cardinale, dubbed the Italian Brigitte Bardot, with the real Bardot–her friend and rival–in 1971’s The Legend of Frenchie King. What set her apart from Bardot? She said she never appeared nude in a film, “I always thought it was more erotic to leave some room to imagination, hinting at things rather than showing everything.”
Working in Hollywood was both successful and stressful. In a Life article, that referred to her as “the most admired international film star since Sophia Loren,” Cardinale revealed that she wanted out of the patriarchal Hollywood system. Speaking to the lower salary in Europe, Cardinale said, “If I have to give up the money, I give it up. I do not want to become a cliché.”
‘You cannot stop time’
Though her career slowed down, Cardinale said she is happy to have stepped away from the sexualized spotlight.
“When I was young, my dream was to explore the world. And I did it. I was never naked and I never did anything to change my face. I don’t like that at all. I like to be what I am, because you cannot stop time,” Cardinale said.
Cardinale married Italian director, Pasquale Squitieri in 1975 and was with him until his death in 2017. The pair have one daughter, Claudia.
In 2022, Cardinale addressed rumors that she was involuntarily hospitalized. Living in France, she said “I’m next to my family, I’m in full health. And I wish everyone a happy summer.”
Today, Cardinale is heavily involved with UNESCO as the goodwill ambassador for the Defence of Women’s Rights.
Claudia Cardinale had quite a life, filled with trauma and successes. It’s great to see that she’s empowering other women with her story, and we hope that she continues in good health. What’s your favorite Cardinale film?