Sophia Loren, born Sofia Costanza Brigida Villani Scicolone on September 20, 1934, in Rome, Italy, is an iconic Italian actress and one of the last surviving stars from the Golden Age of Hollywood cinema. She began her film career at the age of 16 and gained international fame with her performances in films such as The Pride and the Passion (1957), Houseboat (1958), and It Started in Naples (1960).

Loren's portrayal of Cesira in Two Women (1960) earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress, making her the first performer to win an Oscar for a non-English-language performance. Throughout her career, she has received numerous accolades, including seven David di Donatello Awards for Best Actress, five special Golden Globes, a BAFTA Award, and a Grammy Award.