At 86 years old, Claudia Cardinale continues to prove that beauty doesn’t require plastic surgery. The legendary actress has embraced aging with confidence, stating that time cannot be stopped and that true elegance comes from within. Her transformation over the years showcases her natural beauty and the grace with which she has aged.

Claudia Cardinale was one of the most sought-after actresses of Hollywood’s golden era, starring in over 100 films throughout her illustrious career. Her busiest years were between 1960 and 1970, during which she appeared in some of the most iconic films of the time, including 8½ (1963), The Leopard (1963), and The Professionals (1966), where she shared the screen with legendary actors Lee Marvin and Burt Lancaster.

One of Cardinale’s most celebrated performances was in Once Upon a Time in the West (1968), directed by the legendary Sergio Leone. She recalled in an interview that Leone had a unique way of working, often having actors listen to the musical score before shooting scenes. Interestingly, he would even have the film’s music composed before filming began to set the right mood for the actors.

Unlike many European actors who pursued Hollywood careers by moving to the U.S., Cardinale stated, “My main advantage was that I didn’t ask to go to Hollywood—they called me.” At the time, Hollywood studios were known for aggressively signing emerging international stars, often placing them under restrictive contracts that controlled their careers. Many actors struggled with these binding agreements, which limited their creative freedom.

However, Cardinale refused to be constrained. She took control of her career by rejecting exclusive long-term contracts with major studios, choosing instead to sign agreements one film at a time. This decision allowed her to maintain artistic independence and dictate the direction of her career. She worked at her own pace and avoided the pressures of Hollywood’s rigid system.

Her Hollywood years were memorable, marked by standout performances in The Pink Panther (1963) and The Professionals (1966). She also worked alongside some of the biggest names in the industry, such as Rock Hudson in Blindfold and John Wayne and Rita Hayworth in Circus World. Cardinale had the opportunity to rub shoulders with Hollywood’s elite, including Steve McQueen, Barbra Streisand, and Warren Beatty.

Her European career was just as successful. In 1961, she premiered two films at the Cannes Film Festival: Mauro Bolognini’s The Lovemakers, in which she starred alongside Jean-Paul Belmondo, and Valerio Zurlini’s Girl With a Suitcase, where she played an independent singer. By 1963, she was back at Cannes with two more acclaimed films: 8½ by Federico Fellini and The Leopard by Luchino Visconti. In a later interview, she revealed that she filmed both movies at the same time, which required her to change her hair color every two weeks—Visconti preferred her with dark hair, while Fellini wanted her to appear more golden.

After her successful run in Hollywood, Cardinale returned to Europe, focusing on projects that aligned with her personal and artistic values. She continued to make films, and in 2002, she starred in And Now… Ladies and Gentlemen, which was showcased at the Cannes Film Festival.

Unlike many actresses of her generation, Cardinale never participated in nude scenes. She was also adamant about not altering her appearance with cosmetic surgery. She has long been an advocate for natural beauty, believing that aging is a process to be embraced rather than concealed. In an interview, she shared advice that her mother once gave her: “Wait until you are older; you will always be smiling.” This philosophy shaped her views on aging, and she has stood by her belief that true beauty comes from confidence and authenticity.

Even in her later years, Cardinale remained active in the entertainment industry. One of her last film roles was in the Italian-Tunisian production The Island of Forgiveness. When asked about continuing to appear on screen at the age of 77, she remarked, “The most important thing is to stay active.” She has openly criticized society’s obsession with youth, stating, “Since time cannot be stopped, I dislike all of these facelifts and plastic surgery procedures.”

Her stance on aging naturally has inspired countless people. Cardinale has long been an advocate for women’s rights, using her influence to promote self-acceptance and body positivity. Even as she aged, she continued to be a symbol of elegance and strength, showing that beauty transcends wrinkles and gray hair.

Cardinale’s timeless charm is evident in her journey from winning the title of Most Beautiful Italian Girl in Tunisia in 1957 to becoming one of Hollywood’s most revered actresses. Her refusal to conform to industry standards and her dedication to authenticity have cemented her legacy as an icon. Through her decades-long career, she has not only entertained audiences worldwide but has also encouraged others to embrace aging with dignity and pride.

At 86, Claudia Cardinale remains a testament to the fact that beauty is not about defying time but about living fully and confidently at every stage of life. Her career, filled with unforgettable performances and groundbreaking roles, continues to inspire generations, proving that true elegance comes from within.