Biography
Who is Michele Placido?
Early life and education
Born on May 19, 1946, in Ascoli Satriano, Italy, Michele Placido grew up in a family originally from Rionero in Vulture, Basilicata. He is a descendant of the historical figure Carmine Crocco, a known brigand. During his youth, Michele held various jobs to support himself. Before pursuing the arts, he worked as a police officer in Rome and was present during the historical Battle of Valle Giulia.
To refine his craft, he attended two prestigious institutions in Rome. He studied acting at the Accademia Nazionale d'Arte Drammatica under Silvio D'Amico and also trained at the Centro Sperimentale di Cinematografia. These studies provided the foundation for his long and productive career in the Italian entertainment industry.
Acting and directing career
Michele Placido made his professional acting debut in 1969 with a stage performance of Midsummer Night's Dream. By the early 1970s, he began working in film with well-known directors like Luigi Comencini, Mario Monicelli, and Marco Bellocchio. His first major recognition arrived with the 1976 film Marcia trionfale, directed by Bellocchio, which earned him a David di Donatello award. Two years later, he won the Silver Bear for Best Actor at the Berlin International Film Festival for his performance in the melodrama Ernesto.
In 1983, he achieved widespread television fame by starring as police inspector Corrado Cattani in the crime series La piovra. He continued this role for three subsequent seasons until his character was assassinated. Throughout his career, he frequently portrayed law enforcement officials, including playing judge Giovanni Falcone in a semi-biographical movie. In 2008, he took on a different challenge by playing Mafia boss Bernardo Provenzano in the television movie L'ultimo padrino. US audiences might recognize him from the 1988 comedy film Big Business.
Personal life and family
Michele Placido was married to actress Simonetta Stefanelli until their divorce in 1994. They have a daughter named Violante Placido, who followed in her parents' footsteps to become an actress. He also has a son named Brenno Placido, and he is a father of two children in total.
In 2012, he married actress Federica Vincenti. The couple remained married for several years until their divorce in December 2017. Outside of his professional and family life, Michele has participated in political activities. For instance, he supported the candidacy of entrepreneur Alfio Marchini for the position of mayor of Rome during the 2016 local elections.
Birthday and age
Michele Placido was born on May 19, 1946, which makes Michele 80 years old today. That birthday falls under the Taurus sign. Michele shares the date with 27 other famous people.
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