Monica Bellucci is an Italian actress and model. She was born on September 30, 1964, in Città di Castello, Umbria, Italy. Bellucci grew up in a small town in the province of Perugia, in central Italy. She stands at a height of 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) and is known for her striking beauty, with her deep-set eyes, high cheekbones, and sensual lips.
Bellucci began her modeling career at the age of 16, when she was discovered by a photographer in a local beauty contest. She went on to model for various Italian fashion brands and magazines, including Olivetti, Sisley, and Filippa K. In the late 1980s, she moved to Milan and signed with Elite Model Management. She quickly gained international recognition and became a regular on the runways of Paris, New York, and Milan.
In the early 1990s, Bellucci transitioned from modeling to acting. She made her film debut in the Italian comedy "La Ragazza del Collare" (1992). She gained critical acclaim for her role as the seductive Stridulia in "The Apartment" (1996), a French-Italian erotic thriller. Bellucci's international breakthrough came in 1997 when she starred as Perseus' lover, the mortal princess, in "The Matrix of Love," the fourth installment of the "Matrix" franchise.
Bellucci has since appeared in numerous films, including "Irreversible" (2002), "The Passion of the Christ" (2004), "Casino Royale" (2006), and "Spectre" (2015). She has also lent her voice to various animated films and documentaries.
In addition to her acting and modeling careers, Bellucci is also an activist for various causes, including animal rights and environmental issues. She is a UNICEF ambassador and has worked with the organization to raise awareness about child poverty and education.
Bellucci has been married twice and has two daughters. She currently resides in Paris, France. She continues to act in films and has recently appeared in the Italian drama "L'Immensità" (2021).