**Lino Ventura (Parma, 1919 – Saint-Cloud, 1987)** was an Italian-French actor and icon of European cinema. Initially a professional wrestler, his film career took off with Jacques Becker's *Touchez Pas au Grisbi* (1954), alongside Jean Gabin.

Ventura became famous for his imposing physique and his austere but deeply human expression. He specialized in roles as a “tough guy with a heart of gold”: honest policemen, principled gangsters, or upright ordinary men, often facing complex situations with dignity and reserve. His acting was measured, without excess, lending great authenticity to his characters.

His most famous films include classics such as *Les Tontons Flingueurs* (1963), *L'Armée des ombres* (1969) by Jean-Pierre Melville, *Le Clan des Siciliens* (1969), *L'Emmerdeur* (1973) and *Cadaveri eccellenti* (1976) by Francesco Rosi, which testify to his versatility and immense popularity.