Italian movie actresses born in the year 1900

Here are 8 famous actresses from Italy were born in 1900:

Paola Borboni

Paola Borboni (January 1, 1900 Golese-April 9, 1995 Bodio Lomnago) was an Italian actor.

She made her acting debut in 1918 in a silent film called "Il Ladro". Borboni became a prominent performer in the Italian theater scene during the 1920s and also appeared in several films during this period. She continued to act on stage and screen in the following decades, with notable roles in films such as "Anna Magnani" and "La grande guerra". Borboni was awarded the Volpi Cup for Best Supporting Actress at the Venice Film Festival in 1985 for her work in the film "The Family". In addition to acting, she was also a vocal advocate for social and political causes, including women's rights and the anti-fascist movement.

Borboni was born in Golese, a small town in the province of Modena, Italy. Her passion for acting led her to pursue a career in the arts, and after making her debut in "Il Ladro", she quickly became recognized for her talent on stage and screen. In addition to her acting work, Borboni was also a respected acting teacher, and many of her students went on to achieve success in the Italian entertainment industry.

During her long and illustrious career, Borboni appeared in over 150 films and numerous stage productions, showcasing her versatility as an actor. She was also a well-known figure in Italian society, counted among her friends many of the country's leading intellectuals and artists. Borboni's commitment to social and political causes was reflected in her outspoken advocacy for women's rights and her steadfast opposition to fascism, for which she was recognized as a symbol of resistance against totalitarianism.

Borboni's contributions to Italian culture and society were celebrated throughout her life, and she was awarded numerous honors in recognition of her achievements. Despite her passing in 1995 at the age of 95, her legacy as an actor and a vocal advocate for social change lives on, inspiring future generations of artists and activists alike.

Following her success in both theater and film, Paola Borboni went on to become a prolific presence on Italian television in the 1970s and 1980s, appearing in popular programs such as "La vita di Dante", "Antigone", and "La piovra". She was also the recipient of numerous awards throughout her career, including the David di Donatello Award for Lifetime Achievement in 1986, and the Italian Republic's highest honors, the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic and the Grand Officer of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic. In addition to her artistic contributions, Borboni was also known for her humanitarian efforts, most notably her work in founding an organization dedicated to providing assistance to impoverished children in Italy. She remained active in the arts and social causes until the end of her life, passing away in 1995 at the age of 95. Today, she is remembered as one of the greatest actors and advocates for social change in Italian history.

Throughout her long and illustrious career, Paola Borboni also acted alongside many of the biggest names in Italian cinema, including Marcello Mastroianni, Sophia Loren, Vittorio Gassman, and Claudia Cardinale. She was known for her ability to portray complex and nuanced characters, and her performances were often praised for their emotional depth and authenticity. Borboni was also a fixture of the Italian cultural scene, attending events and socializing with artists, writers, and intellectuals. She was a close friend of the Italian actress Anna Magnani, and the two appeared together in several films throughout their careers. In addition to her work as an actor and humanitarian, Borboni also wrote a book of memoirs, titled "Paola Borboni: Vita di un'attrice" (Paola Borboni: Life of an Actress), which offers a fascinating glimpse into her experiences in the world of Italian theater and film. Despite her many achievements, Borboni remained humble and devoted to her craft, always striving to improve her skills as an actor and to use her platform to effect positive change in society. Her legacy as a dedicated artist and advocate for social justice continues to inspire generations of Italians today.

Maria Gambarelli

Maria Gambarelli (April 7, 1900 La Spezia-February 4, 1990 Huntington) was an Italian actor and ballet dancer.

Gambarelli was born in La Spezia, Italy in 1900 and began her career as a ballet dancer at a young age. She honed her skills in Italy before moving to New York City to pursue a career in dance. Gambarelli quickly gained recognition for her graceful dance moves and stunning stage presence.

In addition to her dancing career, Gambarelli also took up acting and appeared in several films and plays throughout her career. She worked with notable actors and directors in the industry and was known for her versatility and natural talent.

Gambarelli continued to perform well into her later years and was regarded as a true icon in the entertainment industry. She passed away in 1990 in Huntington, New York, leaving behind a rich legacy and inspiring generations of performers to come.

During her career, Maria Gambarelli performed with various dance companies, including the Ballets Russes and the Metropolitan Opera Ballet. She also appeared in several Broadway productions and films, including "An American in Paris" and "The Barkleys of Broadway". Gambarelli was renowned for her partnership with Rudolf Nureyev in the ballet "Giselle", which was performed at the Metropolitan Opera House in 1969.

Apart from her career in the entertainment industry, Gambarelli was also involved in charity work. She supported several organizations that aimed to promote the arts and help underprivileged children. Gambarelli received numerous awards and recognitions for her contributions to the arts, including the Italia Prize for Performing Arts in 1981.

Gambarelli's legacy continues to inspire dancers and actors around the world. In her honor, a dance scholarship has been established in her name at the Juilliard School in New York City.

Gambarelli's life was marked by her dedication to the arts and her unwavering passion for her craft. She was known for her discipline, work ethic, and her ability to captivate audiences with her performances. Gambarelli was also a trailblazer in her own right, paving the way for other women of her time to pursue careers in dance and acting. Her legacy lives on as an inspiration to aspiring performers everywhere.

Despite facing numerous challenges as a woman in the male-dominated entertainment industry, Maria Gambarelli's perseverance and talent helped her establish herself as a prominent figure in the world of dance and acting. She was known for her innovative choreography and her ability to bring a unique flair to every performance, earning her critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase. Gambarelli's influence on the dance world can still be seen in modern ballet productions, which often incorporate elements of her iconic style. In her personal life, Gambarelli was known to be a kind, compassionate person who mentored many aspiring performers and supported various causes close to her heart. Her contributions to the arts and society as a whole will forever be remembered and celebrated.

Inés Murray

Inés Murray (March 12, 1900 Veneto-October 24, 1984 Buenos Aires) was an Italian actor.

She began her acting career in the Italian film industry during the silent film era in the 1920s. In 1937, she moved to Argentina and continued to act in films. Murray became a prominent figure in the Argentine film industry and appeared in numerous films throughout the 1940s and 1950s. She was often cast in supporting roles, but her performances garnered critical acclaim, and she won several awards for her work. Murray was known for her versatility and ability to portray a wide range of characters. She continued to act well into her seventies, demonstrating her dedication to her craft. Murray passed away in Buenos Aires in 1984, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most accomplished actors of her time.

Murray's talent was not limited to acting in films. She also appeared in stage productions, including plays by William Shakespeare, and was highly regarded for her performances in theater. In addition to acting, Murray was known for her philanthropy work in Argentina. She was a generous supporter of the arts and donated her time and resources to various cultural institutions. Murray's contributions to the film industry and the arts in general have been recognized through several awards and honors, including a star on the Argentine Walk of Fame. Murray was a trailblazer for women in film and an inspiration to many aspiring actors.

In addition to her successful career in acting, Inés Murray was also a skilled linguist, fluent in several languages including Spanish, Italian, French, and English. Murray was known for her intelligence and sharp wit, and she often used her bilingual abilities to connect with people from different cultures. She was a popular socialite, attending many events and parties in Buenos Aires, where she was beloved for her graciousness and charm. Throughout her life, Murray maintained close relationships with many influential figures in the film and entertainment industry, both in Argentina and abroad.

Murray's legacy continues to inspire future generations of actors and actresses. She is remembered not only for her talent and contributions to the arts but also for her kindness and generosity. Her impact on the film industry, both in Italy and Argentina, was significant, and her work paved the way for other talented women to succeed in a male-dominated industry. In recognition of her contributions, the Argentine Academy of Cinematography Arts and Sciences established the Inés Murray award, which is still given today to honor outstanding performances by female actors in Argentine cinema.

Inés Murray was born as Agnese Mariotti in the Veneto region of Italy, in a small town near Venice. She was the daughter of a wealthy family and received a private education. Her passion for acting began at an early age, and she attended drama school in Rome before making her film debut in the Italian silent film industry. Her first major role was in the film "La moglie del sole" (The Wife of the Sun), in which she played the lead character. The film was a critical and commercial success and launched Inés Murray's career in the film industry.

In the late 1930s, Murray moved to Argentina, where she continued to work in films. During this time, she became a naturalized citizen of Argentina, and it became her adopted country. She starred in several successful Argentine films, including "El Viaje" (The Journey) and "La Danza de la Fortuna" (The Dance of Fortune). Murray was admired for her natural acting style, which made her appear effortless on screen. She worked with some of the most prominent directors of the time, including Mario Soffici and Luis César Amadori.

Despite her success in Argentina, Murray remained attached to her Italian roots throughout her life. She made occasional trips back to Italy and continued to work in Italian cinema, starring in films such as "Le madri non lo sanno" (Mothers Don't Know) and "Delitto di gioventù" (Youth Crime). She was highly respected by both the Italian and Argentine film industries, and her dual-language abilities gave her a unique advantage in both markets.

In addition to her acting and philanthropy work, Inés Murray was also an accomplished painter. She studied art in her youth and continued to paint throughout her life, exhibiting her works in galleries in Argentina and Italy. Her artwork was notable for its vivid colors and bold, expressive style.

Inés Murray was married twice, first to an Italian professor and then to Argentine actor and director Enrique de Rosas. She had no children but had a large extended family, including several nieces and nephews. Murray's life was a testament to the power of talent, hard work, and dedication. She devoted her life to the arts and made lasting contributions to the film industry in both Italy and Argentina.

Vittoria Crispo

Vittoria Crispo (May 1, 1900 Naples-December 24, 1973 Naples) was an Italian actor.

She began her acting career in the 1930s and quickly gained popularity for her roles in films such as "Revenge of the Blackshirt" (1931) and "The House of Shame" (1938). Crispo was known for her powerful performances and commanding presence on screen, and she was often cast in roles that showcased her dramatic range.

In addition to her work in film, Crispo also had a successful career on stage, performing in a number of theatrical productions throughout Italy. She was widely regarded as one of the most talented actors of her generation and was admired for her versatility and dedication to her craft.

Despite her success, Crispo remained humble and dedicated to her work. She was known for her professionalism and dedication to her craft, and she was highly respected by her colleagues in the entertainment industry. Today, she is remembered as one of the most important actors in the history of Italian cinema.

Crispo's acting career spanned four decades, during which she appeared in more than 50 films. Some of her notable works include "Sergio" (1954), "Il Ponte dei Sospiri" (1964), and "La Visita" (1964). Her last film appearance was in "La Moglie di Mio Padre" (1976), which was released posthumously.

In addition to her work in film and theatre, Crispo was also a skilled painter and writer. She often painted in her spare time and published a collection of poems in 1966.

Crispo received numerous awards and honors throughout her career, including the David di Donatello Award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in "Il Ponte dei Sospiri" and the Nastro d'Argento for Best Supporting Actress for her role in "Boccaccio '70".

Despite her fame and success, Crispo remained devoted to her family and never forgot her roots. She spent most of her life in Naples, where she was born and raised, and she remained an active member of the local community throughout her career.

Crispo was born in a family of artists, her mother was a singer and her father was an actor. Growing up, she was exposed to the world of arts and entertainment, which sparked her interest in acting. She studied at the National Academy of Dramatic Arts in Rome and made her stage debut in 1924 in the play "The Respectable Prostitute". Her career took off in the early 1930s, and she quickly became one of the most sought-after actors in Italy.

During World War II, Crispo was involved in the resistance movement against the Nazi occupation of Italy. She used her acting skills to help smuggle weapons and supplies to the partisan forces. Her bravery and dedication to her country earned her the title of Knight of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic.

Crispo was also a philanthropist and worked tirelessly to help the less fortunate. She was particularly concerned with the welfare of children and founded a charity organization that provided support to underprivileged kids.

Despite her advancing age and declining health, Crispo continued to work until her death in 1973. Her legacy lives on, and she is still remembered today as one of the greatest actors of Italian cinema.

Crispo was known for her dedication to her craft and her rigorous approach to her work. She often spent hours researching her characters and preparing for her roles, immersing herself in the world of the story and bringing a depth and authenticity to her performances that was unparalleled.

In addition to her success on stage and screen, Crispo was also a respected voice in the Italian arts community. She was a frequent contributor to arts publications and was a member of several prominent arts organizations, including the Italian National Academy of Dramatic Arts.

Crispo was married to fellow actor Renato Cialente, and the couple had one child together. Despite the demands of their respective careers, they remained devoted to each other and their family throughout their lives.

Today, Crispo is remembered as a trailblazer for women in Italian cinema and an inspiration to actors and artists around the world. Her dedication to her craft, her commitment to social justice, and her unyielding spirit continue to inspire new generations of artists and activists.

Elvira Curci

Elvira Curci (August 15, 1900 Italy-November 1, 1984 Lakeport) otherwise known as Elvira Curcy was an Italian actor.

She started her acting career in 1919 and went ahead to appear in more than 50 films, both in Italy and the United States. Curci was renowned for her strong performances, particularly in the genre of melodrama. She appeared in some popular films like "Rapsodia satanica" (1915), "La cena delle beffe"(1942), and "Maddalena, zero in condotta" (1940).

In the United States, she was also known for appearing in several Hollywood productions like "The Divine Lady" (1929), "Scaramouche" (1952), and "The Barefoot Contessa" (1954). Curci returned to Italy in the early 1950s and continued to act in films, television, and theater.

Apart from her acting career, she was also a talented singer and recorded several songs in the 1920s and 30s. After her retirement from acting, Elvira Curci lived out her remaining days in Lakeport, California, where she passed away in 1984 at the age of 84.

Elvira Curci was born in Italy in the Apulia region, in the town of Altamura. She came from a family of artists, as her father was a musician and her mother a singer. Curci began studying dance and acting at an early age and made her stage debut at the age of 16. In 1919, she landed her first film role in "L'ombra" (The Shadow) and went on to become a popular leading lady in Italian cinema.

Curci's talent and acting range were quickly recognized by Hollywood, and in 1928 she signed a contract with the MGM studio. She appeared in several Hollywood films, including "The Cossacks" (1928), "The Patriot" (1928), and "Mamba" (1930), alongside some of the biggest stars of the time such as Greta Garbo and Ronald Colman.

Despite her success in Hollywood, Curci's heart remained in Italy, and she returned to her home country in the early 1930s. She continued to act in films, but also pursued other interests. She wrote a book about her experiences in Hollywood, was a frequent radio broadcaster, and even opened a fashion shop in Milan.

Elvira Curci was a versatile and accomplished actress who worked in both silent and sound films. She was also known for her beauty and grace, which made her a popular subject for photographers and artists. Despite living most of her life in the public eye, she managed to maintain a private life, and little is known about her personal relationships or interests.

However, in her later years, Curci became involved in philanthropic work and dedicated her time to charitable causes. She was also a strong supporter of the arts and worked to promote Italian culture internationally. Curci's legacy as a talented actress and cultural ambassador continues to be celebrated in both Italy and the United States. In 2008, the Italian post office issued a postage stamp in her honour, recognizing her contributions to Italian cinema. Additionally, the Elvira Curci Film Festival in Altamura has been held annually since 2006, showcasing Italian films and celebrating Curci's life and achievements.

Elvira Curci's impressive career spanned over six decades, and she is widely regarded as one of Italy's greatest actresses. Her contributions to Italian cinema were recognized by the Italian government when she was awarded the title of Cavaliere di Gran Croce, the highest honor that can be bestowed upon an Italian citizen. Her talent and versatility as an actress influenced generations of performers and helped to shape the industry in Italy and beyond. Today, she is remembered as a true icon of cinema, whose legacy continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.

Gorella Gori

Gorella Gori (February 2, 1900 Rome-November 25, 1963 Rome) also known as Zaira Erba was an Italian actor.

She appeared in over 70 films, starting her career in the silent era and continuing throughout the post-World War II years. Some of her notable roles were in films such as "Il Conte di Sant’Elia" (1937), "The Iron Crown" (1941), and "Senza una donna" (1943). Gori was known for her versatility as an actress, playing everything from comedies to dramatic roles. She was also a theatre actress and performed on stages across Italy throughout her career. Her last film role was in "I Fuorilegge del matrimonio" (1963) before her death later that year. Gori was married to fellow actor Gianfranco Giachetti and they often starred in films together.

In addition to her successful career in film and theater, Gorella Gori was also a talented singer and recorded several songs that became popular in Italy. She began her entertainment career performing in vaudeville shows, and her talent on stage quickly caught the attention of filmmakers. Gori was a member of the Fascist Party during the Mussolini era, but she later renounced her political affiliations and became an advocate for leftist and liberal causes in Italian society. Beyond her artistic contributions, Gori was also a dedicated humanitarian and supported various charities throughout her life. Today, she is considered one of the most enduring and influential actors in Italian cinema history.

Gorella Gori was born as Zaira Erba in Rome to a working-class family. She showed a natural talent for the arts at an early age, and her parents encouraged her to pursue her dreams. She began studying acting and singing, and soon became a popular performer in local theaters and cabarets. Gori's big break came when she was discovered by the film director Alessandro Blasetti, who cast her in his silent film "La cena delle beffe" (1926). Her performance received critical acclaim, and she went on to star in several other films during the silent era.

In the 1930s, Gori became a household name in Italy, starring in films such as "Sotto la croce del sud" (1935) and "Il Conte di Sant’Elia" (1937). She became known for her ability to play both serious and comedic roles with equal skill, and her charming personality endeared her to audiences across the country.

During World War II, Gori continued to work in films, including the widely popular "The Iron Crown" (1941), which depicted the exploits of medieval Italian hero Alberto da Giussano. In 1943, she starred in the anti-fascist drama "Senza una donna", which was one of her most powerful performances. After the war, Gori became more politically active and began speaking out against fascism and censorship in the arts.

Gori's legacy in Italian cinema is still celebrated today, and her contributions to the arts and society are remembered fondly by her fans and admirers. She remains one of the most beloved and respected actresses in the history of Italian cinema.

In addition to her successful career in film and theater, Gorella Gori was also an accomplished voice actor. She dubbed the voices of many foreign actors for the Italian version of films, including Vivien Leigh and Joan Crawford. Gori was also a published author, with several books to her name including a memoir titled "La Fabbrica dei Sogni" (The Dream Factory).

Despite her busy career, Gori was known for her kindness and generosity towards others. She frequently helped aspiring actors and filmmakers, and was a mentor to many in the Italian entertainment industry. Gori passed away in 1963 from a heart attack, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most talented and respected performers in the history of Italian cinema.

Linda Landi

Linda Landi (March 26, 1900 Italy-November 4, 1987 San Joaquin County) a.k.a. Linda Terza was an Italian actor.

She started her career in the silent film era and then transitioned into talkies. Landi is best known for her appearances in films like "Dante's Inferno" (1935), "Anthony Adverse" (1936), and "The Return of Frank James" (1940). She was also a regular performer in Italian cinema. In addition to acting, Landi was an accomplished singer and pianist. She retired from acting in 1949 and spent the rest of her life in California.

During her childhood, Linda Landi moved with her family to the United States and settled in San Francisco. She started her career in entertainment as a child prodigy pianist, performing in concerts across the country. In the 1920s, she made her way to Hollywood and began working in the film industry.

Aside from her acting career, Landi was known for her stunning beauty and elegance, which often drew comparisons to Greta Garbo. She had a brief romantic relationship with actor John Gilbert, which was widely publicized by the press.

Despite her success in Hollywood, Landi faced discrimination as an Italian immigrant during World War II. She turned down several film offers that portrayed Italian characters in a negative light and instead focused on her music career.

After retiring from acting, Landi became a well-respected vocal coach and music teacher in San Francisco. She continued to perform in concerts and at private events well into her 70s. Linda Landi passed away in 1987 at the age of 87.

In her personal life, Linda Landi was known to have been married twice. Her first husband was a French pilot, whom she met during her early years in Hollywood. The marriage ended quickly, and Landi moved on to marry a wealthy businessman named Mario Terzano. The couple settled in San Francisco and had one child together.

Aside from her musical talents, Landi was also fluent in four languages and was known for her intelligence and cultural refinement. She often played strong and independent women in her films, and her performances were noted for their emotional depth and subtlety.

In recognition of her contributions to the film industry, Linda Landi was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960. Her legacy as one of the pioneering women of early Hollywood continues to inspire future generations of actors and performers.

In addition to her successful acting and music careers, Linda Landi was also an accomplished author. She wrote a book about her experiences as an immigrant in Hollywood, titled "From Italy to Hollywood: My Journey." The book was well-received and praised for its honest portrayal of the challenges faced by Italian actors in early Hollywood.

Landi was also a passionate advocate for animal rights and frequently donated her time and money to animal shelters and rescue organizations. She was particularly fond of dogs and often took in strays and abandoned animals.

Throughout her life, Linda Landi remained dedicated to her Italian heritage and often traveled back to Italy to visit her family and perform in concerts. She was a beloved figure in both the American and Italian entertainment industries and is remembered as one of the most talented and resilient actresses of her generation.

Marta Abba

Marta Abba (June 25, 1900 Milan-June 24, 1988 Milan) was an Italian actor.

Abba began her career as a theater actress in Milan in the 1920s, and gained widespread recognition for her performances in productions of the plays of Luigi Pirandello. In the 1930s, she transitioned to film acting, and appeared in several Italian films such as "The Countess of Parma" (1936) and "La Cena delle Beffe" (1942).

Abba was also known for her romantic relationship with the playwright and novelist Luigi Pirandello, whom she met while performing in one of his plays. Their relationship lasted until Pirandello's death in 1936, and Abba remained a prominent figure in the literary and cultural circles of Italy throughout her life.

Despite her success on stage and screen, Abba's acting career was interrupted during World War II due to her opposition to fascism. After the war, she returned to the stage, and continued to act until the 1960s.

Abba's talent for acting was apparent from a young age. She studied at the Accademia dei Filodrammatici in Milan, where she honed her craft and developed a reputation as a gifted performer. Her breakthrough moment came when she was cast in Pirandello's play "Enrico IV" in 1922. Pirandello was immediately struck by Abba's talent and beauty, and a deep and passionate romance soon blossomed between the two.

While her relationship with Pirandello undoubtedly opened doors for her in the world of Italian theater, Abba's talent and hard work were ultimately what made her one of the most prominent actresses of her time. She was widely regarded as one of Italy's finest stage actresses during the 1920s and 1930s, and her performances in Pirandello's plays were particularly acclaimed.

Despite her success, Abba was not content to simply rest on her laurels. When the opportunity arose to make the transition to film acting, she jumped at the chance. Her film career was somewhat brief, but she appeared in several notable Italian films, and her performances were well-received.

Abba's life was not without its tragedies, however. In addition to Pirandello's death, she also lost her beloved brother Eugenio, who was killed by the fascists during World War II. Like many Italians, Abba was deeply opposed to the fascist regime, and she paid a high price for her beliefs. During the war, she was forced to go into hiding to avoid arrest, and her acting career suffered as a result.

Despite these challenges, Abba remained a beloved and respected figure in Italy throughout her life. She continued to act on stage after the war, and she remained passionate about theater until the very end of her life. Today, she is remembered as one of Italy's greatest actresses, and her legacy lives on in the many performances she gave over the course of her long and illustrious career.

Abba's influence extended beyond her work as an actor. In addition to her talents on stage and screen, she was also a published author, and her memoir "Ricordo di Luigi" (Memory of Luigi) provided insight into her relationship with Pirandello. She was also an outspoken advocate for women's rights, and was a prominent member of the Union of Italian Women. Her influence on Italian theater and culture was significant, and she helped pave the way for future generations of female performers. Today, she is remembered as a trailblazer and an icon in the world of Italian acting.

Abba's legacy also includes her impact on fashion. Known for her beauty, elegance, and impeccable taste, she was widely regarded as a fashion icon in Italy during her time. Her signature style consisted of simple, timeless pieces that emphasized her natural beauty and sophistication. In particular, she was known for her love of hats, and was rarely seen without one. Her influence on Italian fashion has continued long after her death, and her style remains an inspiration for many today.

In addition to her achievements as an actor, author, and fashion icon, Abba was also a passionate and dedicated philanthropist. Throughout her life, she was actively involved in a number of charitable organizations, and worked tirelessly to improve the lives of those in need. Her kindness, generosity, and commitment to making the world a better place are a testament to her character, and have ensured that her legacy continues to inspire others to this day.

Related articles