At 86, She Looks Decades Younger—Here’s Her Secret to Aging Without Surgery

Famous actress Claudia Cardinale has embraced aging gracefully, believing that time is unstoppable. Her approach shows a natural and inspiring transformation through the years.

Instead of turning to surgery, Claudia has chosen to accept each stage of life. She believes true beauty comes from within, a mindset that has gained her admiration from fans worldwide.

Her transformation over the years shows her confidence in aging naturally. Claudia’s appearance is a testament to her strength and timeless elegance, proving that beauty truly knows no age.

Source: Getty Images

Italian actress Claudia Cardinale was a big name during Hollywood’s golden age. Over her long career, she appeared in more than 100 films, especially from 1960 to 1970.

During that decade, she acted in about 30 movies, including famous titles like 8½ (1963), The Leopard (1963), and The Professionals (1966), where she starred with Burt Lancaster and Lee Marvin.

Another memorable role was in Once Upon a Time in the West (1968), directed by the legendary Sergio Leone. Cardinale recalls that Leone had a unique style, often playing the music for a scene before filming it.

Reflecting on her U.S. career, Cardinale said, “I didn’t ask to go to Hollywood; they called me.” At that time, Hollywood studios quickly signed up new stars under strict contracts, which limited actors’ freedom in their careers.

Cardinale resisted this, avoiding an exclusive deal with Universal Studios. She preferred signing one contract at a time, allowing her to build a career on her own terms.

In her three years in Hollywood, Cardinale acted in movies like The Pink Panther and The Professionals, working with famous actors such as Rock Hudson in Blindfold and sharing the screen with John Wayne and Rita Hayworth in Circus World.

During this time, she met many Hollywood icons, including Barbra Streisand, Steve McQueen, and Warren Beatty.

In 1961, Cardinale attended Cannes for the first time, promoting films like Girl With a Suitcase and The Lovemakers. She returned to Cannes in 1963 with The Leopard and 8½, both highly acclaimed movies.

Shooting two films at once was challenging, as each director wanted a different look for her. She dyed her hair dark for Visconti and went blonde for Fellini, switching colors every two weeks.

Later, she returned to Hollywood, starring in films with Rock Hudson like Blindfold and Lost Command. Cardinale was offered an exclusive contract with Universal, but she declined, saying, “No, I’m European. I’m going back.” She stayed true to herself, resisting the pressure.

Unlike some actresses, Cardinale never appeared in nude scenes and stayed clear of cosmetic surgery. She believes in showing her true self. “I’ve never done – what do you call it? – a facelift,” she once said, explaining her decision to age naturally.

Now 86, Cardinale still works in the entertainment industry. Her recent project was the Tunisian-Italian film The Island of Forgiveness. About staying active, she said, “I don’t like all these facelifts and plastic surgery because you can’t stop time.”

Starting from the “Most Beautiful Italian Girl in Tunisia” in 1957, Cardinale’s journey reflects her strength and beauty. Her story shows that true beauty lies in embracing oneself and staying genuine.