Sophia Loren

**Sophia Loren**, professionally known as **Sofia Costanza Brigida Villani Scicolone L.d'H. OMRI**, is an iconic Italian actress with a remarkable career that spans over seven decades. Born on September 20, 1934, Loren is among the last surviving stars from the Golden Age of Hollywood cinema. Her journey into acting began at the tender age of 16 after participating in a beauty pageant. This led to a five-picture contract with Paramount in 1956, launching her international career. She is known for her roles in films such as 'The Pride and the Passion', 'Houseboat', and 'It Started in Naples'. Sophia Loren earned her reputation as a sex symbol during the 1950s due to her sexually emancipated persona on screen. Her performance in the film 'Two Women' made her the first ever performer to win an Oscar for a non-English-language performance. Besides her Academy Award, Loren received seven David di Donatello Awards for Best Actress. Her achievements extend to five special Golden Globes (including the Cecil B. DeMille Award), a BAFTA Award, a Laurel Award, a Grammy Award, the Volpi Cup for Best Actress, and the Best Actress Award at the Cannes Film Festival.