Claudia Cardinale’s career, spanning over six decades, has been nothing short of remarkable. The enigmatic actress captivated audiences with her breathtaking beauty and immense talent, earning her place as one of the most beloved figures of the golden age of cinema. Yet, despite her glamorous on-screen presence, Cardinale’s path to stardom was riddled with challenges and trauma that she had to overcome.
Born in Tunisia to Italian parents, Cardinale never planned on becoming a star. Her journey began unexpectedly at the age of 18 when she was crowned “Most Beautiful Italian Girl in Tunisia” during an Italian film festival. This unexpected honor led to a trip to the Venice Film Festival, where producers quickly recognized her potential and offered her film roles. Initially hesitant, Cardinale rejected many offers, revealing in an interview that it was like being pursued: “If you say yes immediately, after a little time he goes away. If you say no, he desires you for a long time.”
The young actress eventually accepted an offer from Italian producer Franco Cristaldi, who signed her under an 18-year contract and later became her husband. Under his management, Cardinale’s life was tightly controlled, from her film roles to her personal decisions. One of the most tragic aspects of this period was her pregnancy, which Cristaldi insisted she keep hidden. Her son, Patrick, was passed off as her younger brother for much of his life, a secret that was revealed when he turned 19.
In 2017, Cardinale spoke openly about the trauma behind her pregnancy, sharing with Italian journalist Enzo Biagi that Patrick was conceived as a result of rape. Despite the pressure from the perpetrator to have an abortion, Cardinale chose to carry the pregnancy to term, stating, “Although it was a very complicated situation for a single mother, I decided not to have an abortion.”
Despite the challenges she faced, including her tumultuous relationship with Cristaldi, Cardinale’s career flourished. After her breakthrough role in Three Strangers in Rome (1958), she gained fame with notable performances in films such as Rocco and His Brothers (1960), 8½ (1963), and The Leopard (1963). Her striking beauty and talent led to comparisons with Brigitte Bardot, though Cardinale distinguished herself by refusing to appear nude on screen, stating, “I always thought it was more erotic to leave some room to imagination, hinting at things rather than showing everything.”
Cardinale’s Hollywood success included roles in The Pink Panther (1963) alongside David Niven and Once Upon a Time in the West (1968), where she starred with legends like Henry Fonda and Charles Bronson. Despite the acclaim, Cardinale became disillusioned with Hollywood’s patriarchal system, eventually choosing to return to Europe where, despite lower salaries, she felt more in control of her career.
Over time, Cardinale shifted away from the limelight, preferring a more private life. She married Italian director Pasquale Squitieri in 1975, and they remained together until his death in 2017. The couple had one daughter, Claudia.
Though her film career slowed in later years, Cardinale continues to be active in meaningful ways. She is currently a UNESCO goodwill ambassador, advocating for women’s rights. In 2022, she dispelled rumors about her health, stating that she was in good health and living happily in France with her family.
Cardinale’s life is a testament to resilience in the face of adversity. From her traumatic early experiences to her rise as a global star, she has empowered herself and others with her story. At 86, she remains a symbol of strength, determination, and timeless beauty.
