Valentina Cortese

Valentina Elena Cortese Rossi di Coenzo, born on January 1, 1923, was a distinguished Italian film and theatre actress whose career spanned over five decades. With a remarkable portfolio of more than one hundred productions, she made her mark in the entertainment industry from 1941 until 1993. Cortese's talent was recognized with a BAFTA Award for Best Actress in a Supporting Role, and she received nominations for both an Academy Award and a Golden Globe for her outstanding performance in François Truffaut's acclaimed film, Day for Night, released in 1973.

Throughout her illustrious career, Cortese collaborated with some of the most revered directors in cinema, including Michelangelo Antonioni, Federico Fellini, Franco Zeffirelli, Joseph L. Mankiewicz, and Terry Gilliam. Her versatility extended beyond the silver screen, as she was also a prominent figure in theatre, often performing under the direction of Giorgio Strehler. Her contributions to the arts were further acknowledged in 2013 when she was honored with the French Order of Arts and Letters.

Critics have celebrated Cortese's unique presence, with Morando Morandini describing her as 'one of the last divas of Italian theatre,' embodying a blend of floral liberty, subdued decadence, and a modern sensibility. Her ability to captivate audiences with her performances solidified her status as a cultural icon in Italy and beyond.