Monica Belucci, born on September 30, 1964 in Citta di Castello, Italy, is an Italian actress and model. At the age of 24 she signed with Elite Models Management shortly after moving to Milan, one of the world’s fashion capitals. She became a face of Dolce & Gabbana brand and her prominence rose both in the old and new worlds. Monica initially started her modeling career to pay for her law degree, that she later abandoned in favor of her modeling and acting careers, after she enrolled into acting classes.
Her first appearance came with a minor role in a Hollywood blockbuster Dracula, solidifying her as one of the most beautiful women in the world and making her an Italian sex symbol. She later landed a role in both sequels of the Matrix, instantly bringing her in the spotlight.
She followed up her success with her role in “The Passion of the Christ”, a movie both produced and directed by Mel Gibson. By this time she had been already featured in Maxim magazine, topped the annual 100 Most Beautiful Women list by AskMen.com, and was a face of Christian Dior.