'The Last Man on Earth' actor Franca Bettoia (88) dies
What's the story
Franca Bettoia, renowned Italian actor known for her role in the 1964 cult sci-fi film The Last Man on Earth, has died in Rome at the age of 88. Her family confirmed her passing to the Italian news agency Adnkronos. The cause of death has not been revealed. Bettoia was married to fellow actor Ugo Tognazzi, who starred in the 1978 movie La Cage aux Folles, until his death in 1990.
Career highlight
Bettoia's notable role in 'The Last Man on Earth'
In the 1964 film The Last Man on Earth, directed by Ubaldo Ragona and Sidney Salkow, Bettoia played Ruth, a character fighting off a plague alongside Vincent Price's Dr. Robert Morgan. The movie was shot in Rome, produced by Robert L. Lippert and distributed by American International Pictures. It was based on Richard Matheson's 1954 novel I Am Legend, with Matheson co-writing the screenplay under the pseudonym Logan Swanson.
Beginnings
Bettoia's early life and breakthrough in film
Born on May 14, 1936, in Rome, Bettoia reportedly made her film debut in 1955. She gained recognition for her role as "the other woman" in Pietro Germi's Man of Straw (1958), which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival. Her career included roles alongside Alan Ladd in Duel of Champions (1961) and appearances in films such as Day by Day, Desperately (1961) and Don't Touch the White Woman (1974).
Legacy
Bettoia's final film and surviving family
Bettoia's last film was Teste rasate (1993), where she portrayed the mother of her real-life son, Gianmarco Tognazzi. In addition to her son, she is survived by her daughter, Maria Sole Tognazzi, who has followed in her mother's footsteps as a director. Bettoia leaves behind a rich legacy in Italian cinema and will be remembered for her significant contributions to the industry. May she rest in peace.