Anita Ekberg

 

Kerstin Aita Marianne (Swedish pronunciation (listen) 29/09/1931 - 11/01/2015) was an Swedish actress, well-known for her attractive and striking physique. Her role as Sylvia, in Federico Fellini's movie La Dolce Vita (1960) became well-known. Ekberg primarily worked in Italy where she became a permanent resident in 1964. Anita Ekberg was the sixth of eight children. Anita was a fashion model in her teens. Ekberg took part in the Miss Malmo competition in 1950 after her mother's encouragement. This resulted in her being selected for the Miss Sweden contest which she won. Even though she could speak little English, Ekberg went to the United States to compete in the Miss Universe 1951 title. It was an unofficial pageant at the time. The pageant became official in 1952. Although Ekberg did not win the Miss Universe pageant, as one of the six finalists she did earn the title of a starlet with Universal Studios. Ekberg was an Universal starlet, where she was taught drama, elocution and dancing. She was briefly featured in The Mississippi Gambler (1953), Abbott and Costello go to Mars (1953), Take Me to Town (1953) as well as The Golden Blade (53).