Elsa Martinelli (1935-2017) was an Italian actress with an international career, discovered as a model. Her elegant charm and spirited vivacity quickly led her to success on the big screen in the 1950s.

She achieved international fame with roles in Hollywood productions, such as *The Indian Fighter* (1955) alongside Kirk Douglas, which marked her American debut. In 1956, she won the Silver Bear in Berlin for her performance in *Donatella*.

Among her most celebrated films are the adventure comedy *Hatari!* (1962) by Howard Hawks, alongside John Wayne, and the sci-fi cult film *The 10th Victim* (1965) with Marcello Mastroianni. Martinelli often portrayed charming, independent, and cosmopolitan women, showcasing versatility between drama and comedy. Her beauty and sophisticated style made her an icon of Italian and international cinema of the 1960s.