Renowned Italian actress Sandra Milo, widely known for her role in Federico Fellini’s “8½” and who later became his muse, died peacefully in her sleep at her Rome, Italy, home on Monday, January 29, 2024. She was 90.
Her family, who were at her side along with her beloved dogs Jim and Lady, confirmed her passing in a statement released through state-run television.
Born Elena Salvatrice Greco, Milo first garnered widespread attention with her role in Roberto Rossellini’s 1959 film “Il Generale Della Rovere (General Della Rovere).”
She became a prominent figure in Italian cinema, collaborating with esteemed filmmakers like Alberto Sordi and Marcello Mastroianni.
Her performance in the Oscar-winning film “8½,” where she portrayed Carla, the mistress to Mastroianni’s film director character Guido, earned her critical acclaim.
Milo’s professional and personal relationship with director Federico Fellini was a highlight of her career. She starred in his 1965 film “Juliet of the Spirits,” alongside Fellini’s wife. In her indirectly autobiographical book “Caro Federico,” published two decades later, Milo disclosed their 17-year secret love affair.
Her television career was equally notable. Milo became a well-known talk show host on Italian television.
Her career faced a challenging moment in 1990 when she was the target of a notorious on-air prank. While hosting a talk show on Italy’s national public service network RAI, a caller falsely claimed that her son, Ciro, had been in a serious car accident.
The traumatic incident, which caused Milo to leave the studio in distress, later became a reference point in the history of reality television, predating shows like “Punk’d.”
Her versatility as an actress, capable of delivering compelling performances in both comedy and drama, was recognized by the Venice Biennale, which lauded her as an “unforgettable and versatile” talent.
She is survived by her three children, including her son Ciro. Her death marks the end of an era in Italian cinematic history and leaves a significant void in the arts and entertainment world.