Franco Nero: A Celebrated Career in Film and a Look Ahead
A Milestone Celebration
Renowned Italian actor Franco Nero, who recently celebrated his 82nd birthday, expressed a desire to continue working despite an illustrious career filled with iconic roles. Honored with a career achievement award at the Filming Italy – Los Angeles festival, Nero humorously remarked to ANSA, “I still want to work a lot, even though I’ve already played all the roles I wanted to — all that was lacking were an orchestra conductor and the Pope, but I got to do them too in the last few years.”
Iconic Roles and Hollywood Beginnings
Nero’s journey in acting began with breakout roles as Abel in John Huston’s “The Bible: In the Beginning” and as the titular hero in Sergio Corbucci’s “Django,” both released in 1966. The latter role would later inspire Quentin Tarantino’s “Django Unchained.” Reflecting on his early Hollywood experiences, Nero recalled, “The first time I came to Hollywood was 1966. It was beautiful. Every night partying with Paul Newman, James Stewart, or colleagues of that calibre… ‘Django’ had just come out in Italy and they called me to film ‘Camelot’.”
The Love of His Life
“Camelot” holds a special place in Nero’s heart, not only because it was John F. Kennedy’s favorite film but also because it was on this set that he met Vanessa Redgrave. The couple started a long relationship in 1967 and have a son, Carlo, who has followed in his parents’ footsteps to become an actor.
Future Projects and Reflections on Django
Despite the success and enduring legacy of “Django,” Nero mentioned he is unlikely to accept a much-requested sequel to the film, citing, “I don’t feel like getting back on a horse 60 years later, but we’ll see.” Looking ahead, Nero is excited about his next project, “Black Beans and Rice,” directed by Robert Port, known for the acclaimed “1944 – The Battle of Cassino.”
Legacy in Spaghetti Westerns
Nero’s impact on the genre of Spaghetti Westerns is celebrated by fans and filmmakers alike. This is evidenced by Tarantino’s inclusion of Nero in a cameo role in the 2012 film “Django Unchained,” which starred Jamie Foxx and Christoph Waltz. Additionally, Italian director Francesca Comencini cast him in her Sky serial “Django” last year, further cementing his iconic status within the genre.
Conclusion
Franco Nero’s enduring passion for acting and his continued contributions to the film industry highlight a remarkable career. His work has left a lasting impact, particularly in the genre of Spaghetti Westerns, and his future projects are eagerly anticipated by fans worldwide. As he continues to explore new roles and projects, Nero remains a beloved figure in cinema, celebrated for his talent and dedication.
