Sergio Castellitto

Born in Rome on 18 August 1953, Sergio Castellitto grew up in a family rooted in the southern regions of Molise and Abruzzo, which gave him a deep appreciation for Italy’s cultural diversity. After completing his studies at the prestigious Silvio D'Amico National Academy of Dramatic Art in 1978, he launched a prolific theatrical career, debuting with Shakespeare’s Measure for Measure at the Teatro di Roma and subsequently tackling demanding roles in works by Brecht, Giordano Bruno, and Chekhov. His collaborations with renowned directors such as Otomar Krejča at the Teatro di Genova and his performances in festivals like the Festival dei Due Mondi in Spoleto showcased his versatility and earned him recognition among Italy’s theatrical elite. Throughout the 1980s he shared the stage with luminaries like Luigi Squarzina and Aldo Trionfo, honing a craft that would later translate powerfully to the screen.\n\nTransitioning to cinema in 1983, Castellitto quickly became a fixture in Italian film, appearing alongside icons such as Marcello Mastroianni and Michel Piccoli in The General of the Dead Army. His breakout roles in The Great Pumpkin and Giuseppe Tornatore’s The Star Maker solidified his reputation as a compelling actor, while his performances in La famiglia, L'ultimo bacio, and Don't Move—the latter written by his wife, Margaret Mazzantini—garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards, including multiple David di Donatello and Italian Golden Globe honors. As a director, he debuted with Libero Burro and followed with the internationally praised Twice Born and Lucky, both featured at major festivals like Cannes and Toronto. Castellitto’s multilingual abilities have led to notable collaborations in French cinema, such as Jacques Rivette’s Va savoir, and high‑profile international projects, including the role of King Miraz in The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian. His recent portrayal of Cardinal Tedesco in Conclave has been celebrated by critics, underscoring a career that spans over four decades of artistic achievement across acting, directing, and screenwriting.