Antonio Salines

Antonio Salines was born on 1 July 1936 in the coastal city of La Spezia, Italy, the son of noted composer Enrico Salines. From the age of ten he entered the world of theatre, joining Franco Sportelli's company where he performed in several stage productions as a child actor, an experience that forged his lifelong devotion to the performing arts. After completing his secondary education, Salines pursued formal training at the prestigious Silvio D'Amico Academy of Dramatic Arts in Rome, graduating in 1959. The following year he was recruited by the legendary Vittorio Gassman's stage company, marking the beginning of a prolific period on the Italian stage that would span more than six decades. His versatility allowed him to transition seamlessly between classical repertory, contemporary drama, and experimental works, earning him acclaim for both his commanding presence and subtle emotional nuance. In addition to his extensive theatre résumé, Salines built a substantial career in cinema and television, appearing in films such as Sierra Maestra (1969), The Gamecock (1974), and the James Bond installment Spectre (2015), where he portrayed a Fiat driver. He also took on directing duties, most notably helming the 1991 adaptation of Anton Chekhov’s Uncle Vanya (“Zio Vanja”), in which he also performed the role of Ivan Petrovich Voinitsky. Married to actress Flavia Milante, Salines balanced his professional engagements with a private family life, though he kept details of any children out of the public eye. He remained active in the arts until his passing in Rome on 22 June 2021, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, artistic integrity, and a body of work that continues to inspire Italian performers.