Daniela Rocca Italian model, actress and writer Date of Birth: 12.09.1937 Country: Italy

Biography of Daniela Rocca

Daniela Rocca was an Italian model, actress, and writer. She was born in Acireale, Italy in 1937. In 1953, Daniela won the beauty pageant of the Catania province, earning the title of "Miss Catania." This local competition opened the doors for her to participate in the national beauty pageant, "Miss Italy." Like many young women, Daniela dreamed of becoming an actress. Her debut in the film industry came in 1955 when she appeared in several Italian films, including "Addio sogni di gloria" and "Il nostro campione."

In 1957, Daniela landed a significant role as Bettina in Maurice Cloche's crime drama "Marchands de filles." That same year, she also appeared in Giuseppe Masini's war film "Il cielo brucia." In 1959, the actress worked twice under director Mario Bava in the adventure thriller "Caltiki - il mostro immortale" and the adventure film "La battaglia di Maratona." She collaborated with Bava again in 1960 for the adventure drama "Esther and the King."

Daniela's exotic beauty and appearance were well-suited for historical and adventure projects, and she appeared in several films of this genre, including "Le legioni di Cleopatra," "Austerlitz," and "La regina delle Amazzoni." However, her true success and international fame came in 1961 with her role in Pietro Germi's comedy "Divorzio all'italiana." She played Rosalia, the nagging wife of Ferdinando Cefalù, portrayed by the renowned actor Marcello Mastroianni. The film's success worldwide was overwhelming, and this role alone established Daniela as a star for the rest of her life.

However, her career was marred by personal troubles. After working on "Divorzio all'italiana," Daniela suffered a severe nervous breakdown that led her to be admitted to a psychiatric hospital. This breakdown was the result of an ill-fated love affair with director Pietro Germi, and she even attempted suicide. She was unofficially labeled as "unstable" in the film industry, which affected her opportunities for significant projects.

Despite these challenges, Daniela continued to work in the film industry. In 1962, she appeared in Vittorio Sala's comedy "I dongiovanni della Costa Azzurra." In 1963, she starred in the drama "La noia" directed by acclaimed Italian filmmaker Damiano Damiani. In 1964, she had a role in Fred Zinnemann's American war drama "Behold a Pale Horse." Daniela played her last film role in 1970, with a filmography that included over 25 films.

Daniela Rocca passed away on May 28, 1995, at a nursing home in Milo, near Catania. It is known that during her time at this place, she also became the author of several books.