On Monday, Sophia Loren led tributes to Gina Lollobrigida, her long-time rival for the title of Italy’s sexiest screen export, who has died at the age of 95.
“I’m deeply shaken and saddened, and above all incredulous at what has happened,” said Loren, 88, after the passing of her fellow diva.
Loren said that for the moment, she had nothing else to add.
Italian Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano also paid tribute Lollobrigida after the once ‘most beautiful woman in the world’ died in her Rome home.
“Farewell to a screen diva, protagonist of over a half a century of Italian cinema history. Her allure will remain eternal. Ciao Lollo”, he said.
Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said “she was an Italian icon for the world.”
Culture Undersecretary Lucia Borgonzoni said the ministry would set up a prize in her honour.
Roberto Marti, chair of the Senate Culture committee, said Lollobrigida “represented Italy in the world.”
His counterpart in the House, Federico Mollicone, said “she was the last diva, and Rome must name a street after her.”
Her grand-nephew and farm minister Francesco Lollobrigida said she was a “peerless icon” while Reform Minister Elisabetta Casellati said “she was an international star and a determined woman” while House culture committee member Giovanna Miele said “she was an immense actress and an intense performer.”
