When you think about living life to the fullest, Sophia Loren is a shining example. At 90, she’s achieved so much, but there’s still that one quirky goal she hasn’t quite nailed. “I’ve spent my whole life trying to perfect a British accent,” she jokes with a twinkle in her eye. Born and raised in Italy, Sophia will celebrate her birthday surrounded by loved ones on September 20, marking another year of a life that’s been nothing short of extraordinary.
Let’s take a moment to appreciate just how far Sophia has come. Growing up in Naples during World War II, she faced unimaginable hardships. “The war was everywhere—bombings, death, no money, no food,” she recalls. Yet through all that chaos, Sophia held onto hope. As a teenager, she entered beauty pageants, which became her stepping stone to stardom. By the time she was 20, she landed her breakout role in The Gold of Naples (1954). And then, in 1958, she arrived in Hollywood, knowing not a single word of English. “I was totally lost,” she admits, “but I was determined to learn.” By the time she won her Oscar for Two Women in 1960, she had become a global icon. “Sophia has accomplished every dream she ever had,” reveals a close friend exclusively to Closer. “She’s lived a rich, fulfilling life and wouldn’t change a thing.”
Sophia cherishes her 41-year marriage to the late Carlo Ponti and the two sons they raised together. “I’ve been blessed with children and grandchildren,” she reflects. “Life has brought me peace and fulfillment. I have everything I could ever wish for.” After losing Carlo in 2007, Sophia made Geneva, Switzerland, her permanent home. She’s lived there for over 50 years, in a beautiful apartment where both her sons, Carlo and Edoardo, were born.
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After decades of globe-trotting, Sophia finds immense comfort in being surrounded by her family photos and cherished memories. “Nowadays, Sophia loves spending time with her grandchildren, enjoying her garden, or relaxing with a classic film,” says her friend. “She wants nothing more than to be comfortable, share meaningful conversations with friends, and savor delicious meals.”
Overcoming Challenges with Grace
Life hasn’t always been smooth sailing for Sophia. Last November, she suffered a fall in her bathroom, fracturing multiple bones, including her hip and femur. Surgery and months of rehabilitation followed. “She’s not completely back to normal yet,” her friend admits. “Walking can still be challenging, and she worries about falling again.” But despite these physical setbacks, Sophia’s mind remains sharp. “She might be a little more forgetful these days, but she takes it in stride, laughing it off and reminding everyone that she’s always been a little scatterbrained.”
What hasn’t changed is Sophia’s vibrant spirit. “When I look in the mirror, I give myself a pep talk,” she shares. “I don’t focus on whether I’m great or beautiful. Instead, I focus on how I feel inside—how secure and happy I am. That’s what truly matters.” Her resilience and optimism continue to inspire those around her.
