Sophia Loren

Sofia Villani Scicolone (Sophia Loren) was born on September 20, 1934, in Rome, Italy.  She is an Italian actress, and singer.

In 1953, Sophia starred in her first role, "Aida".

She starred in many films in the 1950's.  In 1954, Sophia's role in "The Gold of Naples" made her famous.

In 1957, Sophia did her first Hollywood film "Boy on a Dolphin". That same year, she also made movies which co-starred famous stars such as John Wayne, Frank Sinatra, and Cary Grant.

In 1958, she had an International contract with Paramount Pictures for 5 films. Sophia co-starred with Anthony Perkins, and with Cary Grant once again.

Her performance in the 1961 film, "Two Women", won many awards, such as Cannes Film Festival's best performance prize, and an Acadamy Award for Best Actress, which was the first for a non- English language- performance, and to an Italian actress. Sophia also won 22 international awards for that film, which was a huge commercial success.

In the 1960's, Sophia was one of the most popular actress in the world, and continued making films in the U.S., and in Europe.

In 1964, she was offered $1 million dollars to appear in the film "The Fall of the Roman Empire".

Sophia received a second Academy nomination in 1965, for her performance in "Marriage Italian -Style". 

From 1964-1977, Sophia received 4 Golden Globe Awards as World Film Favorite- Female.

Once Sophia became a mother, she worked less. Her work continued to receive many awards, and she continued to work with the biggest names in Hollywood.

In 1981, she was the first female celebrity to launch her own fragrance, "Sophia".  She then launched her own eyewear collection.

Also, in 1981, Sophia was offered the role of Alexis Carrington, for Aaron Spelling's Dynasty, but she turned it down. She was also set to appear in 13 episodes of Falcon Crest, but negotiations fell through, and at the last  moment, the role went to actress Gina Lollobrigida.  Sophia preferred devoting time to raising her sons.

In 1988, Sophia starred in the miniseries The Fortunate Pilgrim.

Sophia has recorded over 2 dozen songs during her career including Tu Vuò Fà L'Americano which she sang in the movie "It starred in Naples".  The song has recently been remixed a few times with different musicians. She also  had a best selling album of comedic songs.

In 1991, she received an Academy Honorary Award for her contributions to world cinema, and was declared "one of the world cinema's treasures".

In 1995, Sophia received the Golden Globe Cecil B. DeMill Award.

Throughout the 2000's Sophia continued making movies, and receiving many awards.

In July, 2013, Sophia is starring in her latest role, which is being directed by her younger son Edoardo Ponti.




Wikipedia