Valeria Golino is a talented Italian actress and filmmaker, known for her work in both fields. Many people recognize her from movies like Rain Man, Big Top Pee-wee, and Hot Shots! films, where she captivated audiences with memorable scenes like the olive-in-the-belly-button. Not only has she achieved international fame, but Golino has also earned acclaim in her home country.
With the distinction of winning the esteemed Best Actress award at the Venice Film Festival not once, but twice, Valeria Golino stands among a select group of only four actresses. Her outstanding talent has received further acclaim through prestigious awards like the David di Donatello, Silver Ribbon, Golden Ciak, and Italian Golden Globe. In this article, we will delve into the life and accomplishments of Valeria Golino, providing you with a comprehensive overview of her remarkable career.
Early Life and Background
Valeria Golino, the gifted actress hailing from Italy, came into this world on October 22nd, 1965, and is anticipated to celebrate her 58th birthday in the year 2023. With a diverse ethnic background consisting of Greek, Egyptian-French, and German heritage, Golino embodies a rich mix of cultures. Born in Naples, Italy, she can credit her artistic upbringing to her parents. Her father, a Germanist scholar, and her mother, Lalla, a painter, instilled in her a deep appreciation for creativity. Additionally, Golino’s family ties include her brother, a musician, and her uncle, Enzo Golino, a columnist for L’Espresso.
Raised in an “artistic family,” Golino enjoyed a unique childhood, alternating between Athens and Sorrento, a city near Naples. It was during this time that her mother became her movie companion, introducing her to the magical world of cinema. The enchantment she found in those films quickly sparked her interest in the industry. Surprisingly, Golino did not initially envision a career in film. Instead, she aspired to become a cardiologist.
Valeria Golino’s Remarkable Professional Journey
Valeria Golino embarked on her professional career in 1983, with the guidance of her uncle, who played a pivotal role in helping her take her first steps in the entertainment industry. Her debut film, titled “Joke of Destiny,” marked the beginning of her acting journey, despite never having formally studied the craft.
In 1985, Golino further showcased her talent in the film “Little Flares.” Although initially gaining recognition through a number of films in Italy, Golino’s ambition led her to venture to Los Angeles with her family, where she began to explore opportunities in the American film industry. It was there that she made her breakthrough in Hollywood, starring in the movie “Big Top Pee-wee.” This opened doors to more significant roles, including her notable performance in “Rain Man,” alongside Tom Cruise.
Golino demonstrated her versatility by venturing into the realm of comedy as well. In 1991 and 1993, she delighted audiences with her roles in the comedic films “Superstars.” She even ventured into television series, showcasing her talent on the small screen in 1995.
Not content with just acting, Golino expanded her horizons and discovered her passion for directing. In 2013, she made her directorial debut with the film “Honey.” Furthermore, she displayed her directorial skills in both movies and web series, proving her capabilities as a multifaceted artist.
In 2012, Golino’s outstanding performance in the film “Kryptonite!” earned her critical acclaim and accolades. Additionally, in 2014, she captivated audiences once again with her appearance in the Italian film “Come il vento.”
Awards and Recognition
Valeria has won many awards for her acting career, especially at famous European film festivals. Valeria Golino’s exceptional talent and contributions to the film industry have garnered significant recognition. In 1986, she secured the Italian Golden Globe for Best Breakthrough Actress, with standout performances in “Little Flames,” “My Dearest Son,” and “A Tale of Love.”
In 1996, Golino won a prestigious award for her fantastic performance in the movie “I Sfagi tou Kokora” at the Thessaloniki Film Festival. The next year, she received more awards, including an Italian Golden Globe and her first Golden Sacher Award, for her role in the captivating romantic drama “Le Acrobate.”
In 2013, she directed her first film called “Honey,” which received lots of praise at film festivals like the Brussels European Film Festival and the Cannes Film Festival. It also won awards like the Italian Golden Globe, Flaiano International Award, and Golden Ciak. Notably, in 2016, Valeria Golino served on the prestigious main competition jury at the esteemed Cannes Film Festival.
She is also a distinguished member of the esteemed Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS), renowned for the annual Academy Awards, also known as “The Oscars.”
Valeria Golino: Love and Relationships
Throughout her life, Valeria has been open about her relationships and has dated many well-known and successful men.
Her first public partner was the Italian director Peter del Monte. They started dating in 1984 and were together for nearly three years. They got engaged in 1987 but eventually went their separate ways.
From 1988 to 1992, Valeria dated the Spanish director Benicio del Toro. They were also engaged and lived together in Los Angeles. However, their bond encountered difficulties due to unfaithfulness on both ends. Valeria supposedly engaged in a romantic affair with musician Eric Clapton in 1991.
From 1993 to 2001, she was in a committed relationship with actor and author Fabrizio Bentivoglio. Following that, Valeria dated another actor, Riccardo Scmarcio, from 2006 to 2016. In 2011, there were speculations surrounding Valeria’s involvement with American actor Dustin Hoffman.
They were spotted together at a Los Angeles restaurant, displaying signs of intimacy and even sharing a passionate kiss. Nevertheless, they never officially acknowledged these speculations and were not seen together afterward. Presently, Valeria appears to be unattached. She has never tied the knot and has not welcomed any children.
Social Media
Valeria Golino has no presence on any social media platform. She led a very private life.
Bottom Line
Valeria Golino is a beloved Italian icon in the world of film, renowned for her remarkable talent and versatile career. Despite her success, she remains single and has chosen not to marry or have children. Valeria Golino continues to inspire and captivate with her incredible talent and unique journey in the world of cinema.