Italian actor and producer, renowned for his iconic roles in Spaghetti Westerns, particularly as the titular character in Sergio Corbucci's "Django" series. He's a cult hero among fans of the genre.
Franco Nero is an Italian actor, producer, and director known for his breakthrough role as the titular character in the 1966 Spaghetti Western film Django, which catapulted him to international fame and earned him a permanent place in pop culture.
Franco Nero, born Francesco Clemente Giuseppe Sparanero on November 23, 1941, in San Prospero Parmense, Parma, Italy, grew up in Bedonia and Milan. His parents, originally from San Severo Foggia, Apulia, were of humble means, and his father was a commissioned officer in the Carabinieri.
Nero's acting career began with a small part in the 1962 film Pelle viva, followed by his first lead role in Sergio Corbucci's Django in 1966. The film's massive success led to a string of eight more film releases that same year, including Texas, Adios and Massacre Time. His rugged, brooding presence on screen and distinctive voice made him an instant icon of the Spaghetti Western genre.
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Nero was actively involved in many popular Italian genre trends, including polizieschi, gialli, and Spaghetti Westerns. Some of his notable films include:
In the 1980s and 1990s, Nero continued to appear in a wide range of films, including Enter the Ninja (1981), Die Hard 2 (1990), and Letters to Juliet (2010). More recently, he has appeared in Cars 2 (2011), John Wick Chapter 2 (2017), and The Pope's Exorcist (2023).
Franco Nero has had a long-standing relationship with actress Vanessa Redgrave, which began during the filming of Camelot in 1967. They married in 2006 and have a son, Carlo Gabriel Nero, born in 1969.
Franco Nero's contributions to the world of cinema have earned him a lasting legacy. As a symbol of the Spaghetti Western genre, he has inspired generations of filmmakers and actors. His dedication to his craft and versatility as a performer have made him a beloved figure in the world of entertainment.
Through his body of work, Nero has left an indelible mark on the film industry, cementing his place as a true icon of Italian cinema.
88 Years Old
A highly acclaimed and award-winning actress, renowned for her powerful performances on stage and screen, particularly in dramatic and socially conscious roles.
Born in 1922
A renowned Italian actor, director, and screenwriter who brought complexity and nuance to his characters, starring in over 100 films and winning numerous awards. He's a cultural icon in Italy, symbolizing the country's cinematic golden age.
91 Years Old
A renowned Italian actor, known for his intense, brooding performances in Spaghetti Westerns and political dramas, often playing complex, morally ambiguous characters.
Born in 1925
A prolific actor who brought iconic villains to life in Spaghetti Westerns, particularly in Sergio Leone's classics, earning a permanent place in the genre's hall of fame.
95 Years Old
Italian swimmer, actor, and screenwriter who won two Olympic medals and starred in over 20 comedy films, often alongside Terence Hill, entertaining audiences worldwide.
