Who Was Claudia Cardinale’s First Husband? A Look at Franco Cristaldi and His Role in Her Life

Claudia Cardinale, the legendary Italian actress, passed away on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at the age of 87 in Nemours, France. She was surrounded by her children in her final moments.

Her agent Laurent Savry confirmed the heartbreaking news and said she left behind “the legacy of a free and inspired woman both as a woman and as an artiste.”

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Claudia Cardinale was born on April 15, 1938, in La Goulette, near Tunisia, to Sicilian parents. At just 16, she won a beauty contest that named her “The most beautiful Italian woman in Tunis.”

The prize was a trip to the Venice Film Festival, where film directors immediately noticed her. At first, Claudia refused acting offers, but her father convinced her to try. This decision changed her life forever.

A Secret Pregnancy and Franco Cristaldi’s Role

At the age of 19, Claudia went through a tragic experience when she was r*ped. She chose to keep her baby, Patrick. To protect her reputation, Italian producer Franco Cristaldi advised her to introduce the child as her brother.

Cristaldi not only became her professional mentor but also later her husband. The two married in 1966. He eventually adopted Patrick as his own son, securing his future. Their marriage lasted until 1975, when they divorced.

Claudia’s Rise to Fame

During her career, Claudia Cardinale became one of the most respected actresses in Europe. She starred in Federico Fellini’s 8 1/2 (1963), The Leopard, The Pink Panther, and the classic western Once Upon a Time in the West.

She once said in 2002 at the Berlin Film Festival:
“I’ve lived more than 150 lives – prostitute, saint, romantic, every kind of woman – and that is marvellous. I worked with the most important directors, and they gave me everything.”

Life After Franco Cristaldi

After separating from Cristaldi, Claudia married filmmaker Pasquale Squitieri. They shared a daughter, also named Claudia. She often called Squitieri her “only love.” He passed away in 2017.

Her last known screen appearance was in the Swiss TV series Bulle in 2020.

Fans Pay Tribute to Claudia Cardinale

Soon after her death, fans filled social media with emotional tributes. Many remembered her beauty, charm, and timeless performances.

One fan recalled watching her in Once Upon a Time in the West as a child, saying she was the most beautiful woman they had ever seen. Another remembered her stunning performance in The Pink Panther.

Claudia Cardinale leaves behind a powerful legacy in world cinema, remembered as one of the greatest actresses of her generation.