A living legend of Italian cinema

Sophia Loren — a name synonymous with Italian cinema and unmatched beauty. Today, the living legend of cinema turns 90. In celebration of this milestone, ELLE O’zbekiston reflects on the life of the actress, filled with bright moments and accomplishments. As an icon of style and elegance, she has captured the hearts of millions and left a significant mark on global culture.

The birth of a star

Sofia Villani Scicolone was born on September 20, 1934, in Rome. She spent her childhood and teenage years in the small town of Pozzuoli, near Naples. Her mother, Romilda Villani, came to the capital with dreams of becoming an actress and met the father of Sofia and her sister Anna Maria, Riccardo Scicolone, who was already married at the time. Divorce was not an option in Italy due to the Catholic Church’s strict rules, but Riccardo acknowledged Sofia as his daughter and gave her his surname. Beyond that, his involvement in her life was limited. Romilda raised Sofia and her sister Anna-Maria on her own, dedicating herself fully to their upbringing. 

A journey into cinema 

At the age of 14, Sofia’s mother persuaded her to enter the “Queen of the Sea” contest in Pozzuoli. The family was struggling financially in the post-war years, so Romilda sewed a dress from curtains and painted over Sofia’s worn shoes with white paint. The future star placed among the top three winners, earning a trip to Rome, where she moved with her mother and sister. In the capital, Sofia participated in casting calls, fashion shows, and various competitions. Two years later, she entered the “Miss Italy 1950” competition, where she won the title “Miss Elegance.” Sofia made such an impression on the jury that the title was created specifically for her.

In the following years, Sofia worked as a model and acted in various films. In 1952, she became the runner-up in the “Miss Rome” beauty contest and caught the attention of Italy’s top film producer, Carlo Ponti. At that time, Ponti had already produced over 20 notable films and worked with renowned actress Gina Lollobrigida.

Carlo immediately saw a star in Sofia and offered her a contract. He was drawn to her not only as an actress but also as a woman. He gave her acting advice, hired top professionals to train her, and always took care of her. It was Carlo who suggested she adopt the stage name Sophia Loren, which would later become a symbol of beauty and elegance. Throughout her career, Loren won two Academy Awards, five Golden Globes, and numerous other honors. 

The film that brought Loren her first major attention was Aida (1953), an adaptation of the famous opera. By the mid-1950s, Loren was already a screen star in Italy. Her first internationally released film was Attila, but it was in 1954’s The Gold of Naples that she gained critical acclaim worldwide.

The film Two Women (1962), where Loren played the role of a widow named Cesira, made the whole world take notice. Her incredible acting and naturalism impressed critics so much that she won an Academy Award for the role. This marked the first time an Oscar for Best Actress was awarded for a non-English-speaking performance. Loren hadn’t expected the win, given that she was up against Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s.

Loren earned her second Academy Award for her role in Marriage Italian Style. Other notable films in her career include Sunflower, Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow, and Ready to Wear, for which she also garnered numerous awards.

A love for life 

Sophia Loren always referred to Carlo Ponti as the love of her life. However, their story wasn’t without its difficulties. They faced legal challenges, public boycotts, and health issues. Despite these struggles and a significant age difference, their bond remained strong. Loren gave Ponti two sons, and he always supported her endeavors, dedicating himself to helping her achieve her full potential as an actress and a woman. 

The couple remained together for 50 years, until Ponti’s passing. Today, Loren resides in Geneva, where she remains actively involved in her sons’ lives, keeps fit, and collaborates with global brands.

It is also important to note Loren’s involvement in charity, particularly in healthcare and education. She was not only an extraordinary actress but also an icon of style and beauty. Her unparalleled image became a symbol of elegance and sensuality, continuing to inspire people to this day.