Eleonora Giorgi passed away on March 3, 2025 (71 years old), after an illness that she recounted, conveying strength and courage. The actress and director left an indelible legacy on the Italian film scene. Known for her versatility and contribution to Italian cinema from the 1970s onward, her first starring role was in “Storia di una monaca di clausura” (1973), directed by Domenico Paolella.
In the 1970s she starred in dramatic and erotic films, such as “Appassionata” (1974) alongside Ornella Muti, but also in sexy Italian-style comedies. During this period she posed for the Italian edition of Playboy (1974), consolidating her status as a sex-symbol of the time. She also worked with Federico Fellini in the film Roma (1972).
In the 1980s she reached a new phase in her career, moving into more comic and dramatic roles. Let’s see what are some of the most famous films in which she starred:
Borotalco (1982)
Directed by Carlo Verdone, this is her most famous film, which won her the David di Donatello and the Nastro d’Argento for best leading actress. She plays Nadia Vandelli, an encyclopedia saleswoman who intertwines in a romantic and comic story with Verdone’s character.
Velvet Hands (1979)
A romantic comedy starring Adriano Celentano, in which Giorgi plays a woman who falls in love with an inventor.
My Wife is a Witch (1980)
A fantasy comedy starring Renato Pozzetto, where she plays a witch reincarnated in modernity.
Schoolmates (1988)
Another big hit directed by Carlo Verdone, exploring the dynamics of a group of former high school classmates who reunite years later. Eleonora Giorgi plays the character of Valeria Donati. Valeria is a charming journalist who finds herself in crisis with her husband Luca, also her former classmate.
Sapore di mare 2 – Un anno dopo (1983)
A romantic comedy set in the 1960s, a sequel to the famous Sapore di mare. The film takes up the setting and style of the first film, focusing on the summer adventures of a group of young people in 1960s Versilia. Eleonora Giorgi is Tea Guerrazzi.
Inferno (1980)
A horror classic directed by Dario Argento, in which Giorgi has a memorable role.
In recent decades, Giorgi had devoted herself mainly to television and theater. She participated in successful TV series such as I Cesaroni and TV programs such as Dancing with the Stars and Big Brother VIP.