Farewell to Irene Papas: the Greek actress was 96 years old

Lutto in the world of cinema: it is Irene Papas died. The Greek actress was 96 years and has been the interpreter of unforgettable films such as Zorba the Greek And The guns of Navarone. Among the most famous interpretations of him also that of Penelope ne The Odyssey.

Farewell to Irene Papas

The announcement of Irene Papas’ death was made by Hellenic Ministry of Culture. “Leave a great cultural legacy»Reads an official note reported by the news agency Ana-Mpa. In fact, in 50 years of career Papas has worked on over 70 films. Her Mediterranean beauty and artistic talent were internationally appreciated.

He also worked in the theater carrying on stage important female roles and characters of ancient tragedy. He acted alongside stars of the caliber of Nicolas Cage: in 2001, in fact, it appears in Captain Corelli’s mandolin. In the 2018 has made his public battle against Alzheimer’s.

Passionate about theater since childhood

Irene Lelekou (this is her real name) was born in 1926 near Corinth. She moved as a child with her family to Athens. Her father taught classical theater and it was he who passed on to her the passion for acting that conquered her since she was a child, making her debut in classical theater.

Then, in 1961 comes the success in the cinema with The guns of Navarone with Gregory Peck and Antony Quinn. And with Quinn he starred in another of his unforgettable hits: Zorba the Greek.

Among the Italian successes, we remember One of thosea 1953 film by Aldo Fabrizi, e The infidels, of the same year, by Steno and Mario Monicelli. In 1987 she was president of the jury at the Venice Film Festival. He concluded his career by receiving in 2009 the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement.

Love for Marlon Brando

The actress is married to the Greek director Alkis Papas. She was only 21 years old. The marriage fell through four years later. In 1954 the meeting with the man she has loved all her life: Marlon Brando.

Contrary to the regime of the Colonels, she was sent into exile during the dictatorship in Greece. She where she returned only in 1974.

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