Her prize was a trip to the Venice Film Festival, a life-changing event where she received numerous offers from producers.
Initially, Cardinale turned down these offers, explaining in an interview, “It’s like a man. If you say yes immediately, he may lose interest. But if you say no, he desires you even more.”
One of the reasons she declined was because she was pregnant. However, there was one producer she couldn’t refuse: Franco Cristaldi, a prominent figure in Italian cinema. Cristaldi signed Cardinale to an 18-year contract and later became her husband, taking full control of her career, image, and even her personal life.
Cristaldi demanded that her pregnancy be kept secret, announcing that her son, Patrick, was her younger brother instead.
Under Cristaldi’s management, Cardinale landed several minor roles in Italian films. She soon became known as “Italy’s sweetheart” for her captivating performances.
Her big break came in 1958 with a leading role in the romantic comedy Three Strangers in Rome. Despite being seven months pregnant—something Cristaldi insisted she keep hidden—Cardinale struggled with depression and even suicidal thoughts during that period, pleading with her manager to release her from the contract. Instead, Cristaldi sent her to London, claiming she was learning English for a future role.
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