Celebrated for her role as a prostitute in the U.S.-Italian film Once Upon a Time in the West (1968), Claudia Cardinale shared the screen with legends Henry Fonda, Jason Robards, and Charles Bronson, delivering a performance that captivated audiences.
Fans loved watching Cardinale, often called the Italian Brigitte Bardot, alongside her friend and rival, the real Bardot, in the 1971 film The Legend of Frenchie King. What distinguished her from Bardot? Cardinale explained, “I always believed in the power of suggestion over explicitness. Keeping some mystery feels more captivating than revealing everything.”
Her Hollywood journey brought both triumphs and challenges. In a Life magazine feature, which hailed her as “the most admired international film star since Sophia Loren,” Cardinale expressed her desire to break free from Hollywood’s male-dominated structure. Addressing the lower pay in European cinema, she stated, “I’d rather sacrifice the money than lose myself. I refuse to become a stereotype.”
Embracing Time’s Passage
As her career pace slowed, Cardinale shared that she found joy in stepping back from the overly sexualized limelight.
“When I was younger, I dreamed of seeing the world, and I made that dream a reality. I never bared all on screen or altered my appearance. I embrace who I am, because time moves forward, and no one can pause it,” Cardinale reflected.
In 1975, Cardinale wed Italian director Pasquale Squitieri, remaining by his side until his passing in 2017. Together, they welcomed a daughter, Claudia.
In 2022, Cardinale dispelled rumors of an involuntary hospitalization. Residing in France, she reassured fans, “I’m surrounded by my loved ones, in excellent health, and I hope everyone enjoys a wonderful summer.”
Today, Cardinale passionately serves as a UNESCO goodwill ambassador, advocating for the Defense of Women’s Rights.
Claudia Cardinale’s life has been a remarkable blend of challenges and achievements. It’s inspiring to see her use her journey to uplift other women, and we wish her continued well-being. What’s your favorite Claudia Cardinale film?
