An interview with the Italian screen goddess, who doesn’t hold back on aging in Hollywood and how good she still looks at 81.
Sophia Loren, at 81, still feels vibrant and lively. Speaking from her home in Geneva, where she’s lived for the past decade, she emphasizes, “I look fantastic.” Despite her strong ties to Naples, Loren left Italy following a prolonged tax evasion case, which included a brief prison stint. Next week, she’s returning to the spotlight at The Venetian in Las Vegas, where she’ll reflect on her illustrious career, including meeting her husband Carlo Ponti and turning down Cary Grant.
Loren is excited but nervous about the event, especially the Q&A. She says, “I’m always nervous when starting something new, but once I relax and am myself, it becomes easy.” She believes being a good person helps her respond well to questions.
Reflecting on her career, Loren says she still wonders if she made it as a star. She finds joy in hearing people talk about her achievements and reliving those moments with her audience.
Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently?
No, I don’t think so. I’m very glad. In a long career like mine, it’s normal to have moments you’re not completely happy about. But I’d have to go through my whole life to pinpoint anything specific. [Laughs.]
What’s the most fun you’ve ever had on set?
I had incredible times with director Vittorio De Sica, especially since we’re both from Naples. Working with Marcello Mastroianni in “Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow” was wonderful, especially the striptease scene where everyone was laughing. Also, filming with Jack Lemmon in “Grumpy Old Men” was incredibly funny.
What are your thoughts on aging in Hollywood, and for actresses in particular? Have you found it more difficult to get parts as you’ve aged?
Aging in Hollywood means the roles change. You can’t play a 30 or 40-year-old at my age. It becomes more difficult, but if you have faith in yourself, you can still find the right roles.
Do you plan to keep acting?
Yes, if a role comes along that suits me. By the way, I look fantastic! [Laughs.] Everyone says so!
What are your secrets for aging so gracefully?
I think it’s because of my mother, who was very beautiful. She won a Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer contest but couldn’t go to America because my grandmother thought it was too far away. If she had gone, I might not have been born.
Do you keep up with younger actresses today? Did you watch the Oscars?
Yes, I watched them at 6 a.m. because I live in Geneva. I love Meryl Streep and Leonardo DiCaprio. They’re both incredible actors.
Loren may have been referring to past Oscars where Streep was nominated—rare as it may be, she wasn’t this year—but before we could clarify, the Italian diva was off to other interviews. Even at 81, she’s keeping busy, busy, busy.
