Isabella Fiorella Elettra Giovanna Rossellini, born June 18, 1952, in Rome, Italy, is an acclaimed Italian actress, filmmaker, author, philanthropist, and former model. Her life is deeply rooted in cinematic history, being the daughter of two European film giants: the Swedish actress Ingrid Bergman and the Italian neo-realist film director **Roberto Rossellini**.
Isabella's childhood was split between Rome and Santa Marinella. She is a twin, born alongside her sister, Isotta Ingrid Rossellini. The relationship between her famous parents was one of the most publicized scandals of the 20th century, leading to Bergman’s temporary blacklisting in Hollywood. Despite the upheaval, Isabella maintained close relationships with both her parents. Her mother, **Ingrid Bergman**, was a three-time Academy Award winner known for iconic roles in films like *Casablanca* and *Gaslight*. Roberto Rossellini, her father, was a pioneer of the Italian Neo-realism movement with films such as *Rome, Open City*.
Isabella's initial career path took her to New York, where she studied fashion and worked as a translator. Her public career began as a journalist and model. At 28, she was hired as a correspondent for the Italian television show *L'altra Domenica*.
Rossellini's distinctive features and unique lineage made her a sought-after model. She graced the covers of numerous international magazines, including *Vogue*, *Elle*, and *Harper's Bazaar*. Her most significant contract was with the cosmetics company **Lancôme**, for whom she served as the exclusive face for 14 years, from 1982 to 1996, becoming the highest-paid model in the world at the time.
Her acting career began in 1979 with a small role in the film *Il prato*. Her breakthrough came in 1986 in David Lynch’s neo-noir masterpiece, **Blue Velvet**, where her haunting performance as the tormented singer Dorothy Vallens earned her international critical acclaim and an Independent Spirit Award nomination. She became a muse for Lynch, and they had a significant professional and personal relationship. Other notable film roles include *Cousins* (1989), *Death Becomes Her* (1992), and *Immortal Beloved* (1994).
In the 21st century, Rossellini has embraced independent filmmaking and theatre-like projects, moving beyond traditional Hollywood roles. Her most celebrated independent work is the comedic short film series **Green Porno** (2008), which she wrote, directed, and starred in. In these shorts, she humorously and scientifically depicts the mating rituals of insects and other animals while wearing elaborate costumes. This work highlights her commitment to environmental advocacy and her degree in Animal Behavior from Hunter College.
The success of *Green Porno* led to **live touring shows** and theatrical performances based on her short films and books, including *Green Porno*, *Seduce Me*, and *Link Link Circus*. These tours blend education, theatre, and comedy, featuring Rossellini narrating, performing costumed vignettes, and often incorporating her beloved dog, Pan. She has toured these shows internationally, reinforcing her status as a unique and multifaceted performance artist who uses her platform to promote environmental science and animal conservation.
Despite her famous lineage, Isabella Rossellini has carved out a unique and unforgettable career defined by intellectual curiosity, artistic fearlessness, and a distinct, self-aware charm.
1. Isabella Rossellini was born in "", Italy, on June 18, 1952.
2. Her mother was the famous Swedish actress "".
3. Her father was the Italian neo-realist film director "".
4. Isabella worked as an exclusive face for the cosmetics company "" for 14 years.
5. Her breakthrough film role was as Dorothy Vallens in David Lynch's 1986 film, "".
6. Her celebrated independent short film series is called "".
7. The short films comically depict the mating rituals of "" and other animals.
8. The live performances based on her independent work often incorporate her dog, "".
9. Rossellini has a degree in "" from Hunter College.
10. Ingrid Bergman was a three-time "" winner.