Born on September 29, 1931, in Malmö, Sweden, Anita Ekberg grew up in a modest household as the sixth of eight children. Though her early years gave little hint of the international fame that awaited her, her striking beauty set her apart from an early age.

Her journey to stardom began in 1950 when she won the title of Miss Sweden. While she didn’t take home the Miss Universe crown, her participation in the pageant proved to be a turning point. The exposure brought her to Hollywood, where her captivating presence quickly caught the eye of industry insiders. This newfound recognition opened doors in modeling and acting, setting the stage for her entertainment career.
Breaking into Hollywood

Ekberg’s Hollywood debut came in the mid-1950s with supporting roles in films such as Blood Alley (1955), where she appeared alongside John Wayne and Lauren Bacall, and the comedy Artists and Models (1955), starring Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis. Her Nordic beauty and statuesque elegance earned her the nickname “The Iceberg,” reinforcing her image as a classic Hollywood bombshell. Popular media, including Playboy, frequently featured her, further cementing her status as a pop culture sensation.
La Dolce Vita and Global Stardom

However, it was her role in Federico Fellini’s La Dolce Vita (1960) that made her an international icon. Her portrayal of Sylvia, the enchanting yet elusive starlet, captured the essence of celebrity allure and mystery. The film’s most legendary moment—Ekberg wading through Rome’s Trevi Fountain in a flowing black gown—became one of the most enduring images in cinematic history.
Despite the worldwide recognition La Dolce Vita brought her, the role also led to typecasting, with many directors offering her parts that emphasized her glamorous persona. While this limited her opportunities for more diverse roles, Ekberg embraced the fame it afforded her, understanding the power of the image she had cultivated.
Life in Italy and Career Beyond Hollywood

Choosing to remain in Italy after her rise to stardom, Ekberg found greater creative freedom outside Hollywood’s constraints. She appeared in notable European films such as Boccaccio ’70 (1962), an anthology featuring works by Fellini and Vittorio De Sica, and 4 for Texas (1963), where she reunited with Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra. Though filmmakers often cast her in roles that leaned into her seductive image, she maintained a strong presence in European cinema, solidifying her legacy as a screen siren of her era.
This ‘Rage of Angels’ beauty is 79 years old now. This is her today

Jacquelyn Ellen Smith, known as Jaclyn Smith, was born on October 26, 1945, in Houston, Texas.
Growing up in a supportive family, she developed a passion for the arts early on. She attended Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas, before moving to New York City to pursue her dream of becoming a ballet dancer.

Rise to Stardom
Jaclyn’s career took a significant turn when she transitioned from ballet to acting and modeling. Her big break came in 1976 when she was cast as Kelly Garrett in the iconic television series “Charlie’s Angels.”
Her portrayal of the savvy and sophisticated detective won the hearts of millions and made her a household name.

Beyond “Charlie’s Angels”
After “Charlie’s Angels,” Jaclyn continued to build an impressive acting career. She starred in numerous television movies and miniseries, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
Notable works include “Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy” (1981) and “Rage of Angels” (1983). Her performances received critical acclaim, further cementing her status in Hollywood.
Legacy
Jaclyn Smith remains a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. Her contributions to television and her pioneering work in celebrity branding have left an indelible mark. She continues to inspire new generations with her talent, elegance, and entrepreneurial spirit, proving that true icons are timeless.
Leave a Reply