60s film star Claudia Cardinale has died (5 photos)

The actress has died at the age of 87.





Legendary Italian actress Claudia Cardinale has passed away at the age of 87. Her agent, Laurent Savry, confirmed the news. Cardinale died on Tuesday evening in the small French town of Nemours, where she lived in her final years with her children.



Born Claude Josephine Rose Cardinale to a family of Sicilian immigrants in Africa, she began her film career in 1956 at the age of 18. Over more than half a century, the actress has appeared in over 150 films, collaborating with such renowned directors as Federico Fellini, Luchino Visconti, and Sergio Leone.





Actress Claudia Cardinale and director Federico Fellini on the set of "8 1/2," 1963

Some of Cardinale's most famous works include "The Leopard," "8 1/2," "Rocco and His Brothers," and "Once Upon a Time in the West."



Claudia Cardinale in "Once Upon a Time in the West" (1968)

The combination of stunning beauty and striking charisma made Cardinale a symbol of the golden age of Italian cinema. In 1963, she was awarded the Silver Ribbon by the Italian National Syndicate of Film Journalists, and in 1993, the actress received the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival for her contribution to world cinema. Cardinale's achievements were also recognized in France, where she was made a Chevalier of the Legion of Honor.



Claudia Cardinale and French actor Jean Sorel (left to right) at the Cinema Palace on Venice Lido, September 6, 1965

Claudia Cardinale will forever remain one of the most vibrant and recognizable stars of Italian cinema. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her fans through her legendary roles, which have become classics of world culture.