Gina Lollobrigida
Gina Lollobrigida
Gina Lollobrigida (born July 4, 1927) is an Italian actress, photojournalist, and sculptor. She was a leading lady in Italian and American films during the 1950s and 1960s, and continues to be active as an artist and sculptor.
Early life and career
Gina Lollobrigida was born in Subiaco, Lazio, Italy, the daughter of Giovanni Lollobrigida, a furniture manufacturer, and Giuseppina Mercuri, a seamstress. She has two sisters, Giuliana and Maria.
Lollobrigida began her career as a model and beauty pageant contestant. In 1947, she was crowned Miss Italy. This led to a career in film, and she made her debut in the Italian film "Lucia di Lammermoor" (1946).
Lollobrigida quickly became one of the most popular actresses in Italy. She starred in a number of successful films, including "Fanfan la Tulipe" (1952), "The Belles of St. Trinian's" (1954), "Trapeze" (1956), and "Never So Few" (1959).
Hollywood career
In the late 1950s, Lollobrigida began to appear in Hollywood films. She made her American debut in the film "Beat the Devil" (1953), opposite Humphrey Bogart. She went on to star in a number of other Hollywood films, including "Solomon and Sheba" (1959), "Come September" (1961), and "Buona Sera, Mrs. Campbell" (1968).
Lollobrigida's Hollywood career was not without controversy. In 1954, she was involved in a public feud with actress Ava Gardner. The feud began when Gardner accused Lollobrigida of stealing her husband, Frank Sinatra. The feud lasted for several years, and the two actresses never appeared in a film together.
Later career
In the 1970s, Lollobrigida began to focus on her career as a photojournalist. She traveled the world, photographing celebrities and world leaders. She also published a number of books of photography.
In the 1980s, Lollobrigida returned to acting. She appeared in a number of films, including "The Lonely Woman" (1981), "Grandi magazzini" (1986), and "XXL" (1997).
Personal life
Lollobrigida has been married twice. Her first marriage was to Milko Skofic, a Slovene doctor. The couple had one son, Milko Skofic Jr. They divorced in 1971.
In 1973, Lollobrigida married Javier Rigau, a Spanish businessman. The couple divorced in 1996.
Lollobrigida is a Catholic. She is also a supporter of animal rights. She has been involved in a number of campaigns to protect animals.
Legacy
Gina Lollobrigida is one of the most iconic actresses of the 20th century. She is known for her beauty, her talent, and her humanitarian work. She has been honored with numerous awards, including a Golden Globe Award and a BAFTA Award.
Lollobrigida's films have been seen by millions of people around the world. She has inspired many other actresses, including Sophia Loren and Monica Bellucci. She is a true legend of the silver screen.
