FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Elena Isella | NIAF
eisella@niaf.org
412-596-5848 (c)
202-939-3108 (o)

(Washington, D.C. – January 16, 2023) – The National Italian American Foundation expresses its deepest sympathy on the passing of legendary Italian actress and NIAF Honoree Gina Lollobrigida who has died at age 95.

“In 2008, NIAF honored Gina Lollobrigida at our 33rd Anniversary Awards Gala where she received a Lifetime Achievement Award in Entertainment. Over the years, Lollobrigida supported our Foundation and attended numerous NIAF galas around the country. NIAF appreciated her support and friendship which served to strengthen the bonds between the United States and Italy,” said NIAF Chairman Robert E. Carlucci.

Born in Subiaco, Italy, Lollobrigida’s began her career in 1946 in the Italian film “Lucia di Lammermoor.” After starring in more than 20 European films, she made her American film debut in “Beat the Devil,” which premiered in 1953. By the end of the decade, the Italian press hailed her as “The Most Beautiful Woman in the World.” During the next 20 years, “La Lollo” appeared in more than 40 films, including a Golden Globe-winning performance in “Come September.” Lollobrigida’s film career spanned more than half a century. She appeared in films with icons such as Frank Sinatra, Rock Hudson, Burt Lancaster, and Bob Hope.

The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to preserving, promoting and protecting the Italian American heritage and culture.  To learn more about the Foundation and become a member, please visit www.niaf.org.

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