Claudia Cardinale at 86: A Timeless Icon. Claudia Cardinale’s career has spanned over 60 years, making her one of the most iconic actresses of the golden age of cinema. Known for her beauty and talent, her journey was also marked by personal struggles and resilience.
Born in Tunisia to Italian parents, Cardinale never aimed to become an actress. Her career began at 18 after winning a beauty contest, which led to film offers. Though hesitant at first, she eventually signed an 18-year contract with producer Franco Cristaldi, who later became her husband. Under his control, she faced many restrictions and hardships—including having to hide her pregnancy.
Her son Patrick was introduced as her brother for years, and only later did she reveal that he was conceived after a sexual assault. Despite pressure to have an abortion, she chose to keep the baby.
Her career thrived with roles in 8½, The Leopard, and The Pink Panther. Unlike other sex symbols of her time, Cardinale refused to appear nude, preferring to leave things to the imagination. After becoming disillusioned with Hollywood, she returned to Europe where she had more control over her work.
In later years, she focused on a quieter life and married director Pasquale Squitieri, with whom she had a daughter. Today, Cardinale lives in France and continues to advocate for women’s rights as a UNESCO goodwill ambassador. At 86, she remains a powerful symbol of strength, dignity, and enduring beauty.
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