Claudia Cardinale, the iconic Italian actress renowned for her roles in cinematic masterpieces such as 8½, The Leopard, and Once Upon a Time in the West, has passed away at the age of 87. She died on September 23, 2025, at her home in Nemours, France, surrounded by her children. Born in Tunis in 1938 to Sicilian parents, Cardinale’s entry into the film industry was serendipitous. After winning the title of “Most Beautiful Italian Girl in Tunisia” at 17, she was discovered and soon became a prominent figure in Italian cinema.

Her breakthrough came with Federico Fellini’s 8½ (1963), where she portrayed the idealized muse of the protagonist, played by Marcello Mastroianni. That same year, she delivered a memorable performance as Angelica Sedara in Luchino Visconti’s The Leopard, starring opposite Burt Lancaster. She further solidified her status with roles in Sergio Leone’s Once Upon a Time in the West (1968) and Blake Edwards’ The Pink Panther (1963).

Throughout her illustrious career, Cardinale appeared in over 100 films and television productions, collaborating with esteemed directors like Werner Herzog in Fitzcarraldo (1982) and Franco Zeffirelli in The Taming of the Shrew (1967). Her performances were characterized by a blend of sensuality and strength, making her a symbol of Mediterranean allure in 1960s cinema.

Beyond her acting prowess, Cardinale was an advocate for women’s rights and served as a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador. She was honored with numerous accolades, including a Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the Venice Film Festival in 1993. Cardinale’s passing marks the end of an era in European cinema. Her legacy endures through her extensive filmography and the indelible impact she left on the world of film.