With deep sorrow, the Cairo International Film Festival (CIFF) bids farewell to the legendary Claudia Cardinale — a timeless icon whose career spanned over six decades, leaving an indelible mark on world cinema. She embodied beauty, freedom, and artistic brilliance, inspiring generations and captivating audiences across the globe.
Claudia Cardinale passed away on September 24, 2025, at the age of 87. Born in Tunis in 1938, she made her screen debut in Goha (1958), a film shot in Tunisia alongside a young Omar Sharif, who was also at the beginning of his career. This encounter marked the start of two artists destined to become international icons. Decades later, they would reunite on screen in Henri Verneuil’s Mayrig (1991) and 588 rue Paradis (1992), as well as in the television series adaptation of Mayrig.
From these early roles in Tunisia and Egypt to her celebrated work with some of Europe’s greatest filmmakers, Claudia Cardinale maintained a lasting bond with the Arab world and its cinema.
Claudia Cardinale shared a special connection with CIFF. In 2015, during the festival’s 37th edition, she was honored with the Faten Hamama Honorary Award in recognition of her extraordinary contributions to cinema. Her presence that year was unforgettable, as she expressed heartfelt joy at being celebrated in Egypt and spoke warmly of the festival’s role in fostering cultural dialogue through film.
Festival President Hussein Fahmy reflected: “The world has lost a unique artistic force, and I have lost a personal memory I hold dear. I will never forget standing beside her in 2015 as we shared the honor of recognition. Her grace was enchanting, and her love for Egypt was genuine and moving. Her passing leaves a profound void in our hearts.”
The Cairo International Film Festival extends its deepest condolences to Claudia Cardinale’s family, admirers, and global audiences. Her artistic legacy and humanity will live on, and her memory will forever remain a part of Cairo and the cinema world that cherished her radiant presence.
Neïla Driss
