Aldo Fabrizi

Aldo Fabrizi (born Aldo Fabbrizi; 1 November 1905 - 2 April 1990) was an Italian actor, director, screenwriter and comedian. He is best known for the role of the heroic priest in Roberto Rossellini's Rome, Open City and as a partner of Totò in a number of successful comedies. Born in Rome into a humble family, he debuted on stage in a suburban theater in 1931, gaining local success through his comical sketches and macchiette, and became a star of the Roman revue and avanspettacolo.

Fabrizi made his film debut during the war, in 1942, and quickly established himself as one of the most talented actors of the time, spacing from comedy to drama. In 1945 he played the iconic Don Pietro in the neo-realist drama Rome, Open City, and following the film's critical and commercial success he took a number of leading roles in other neo-realist films. Already active as a screenwriter, he debuted as a director in 1948 with the drama Immigrants. In the 1950s and 1960s he was often paired on screen with Totò and with Peppino De Filippo, and in 1964 he had a large success on stage with the musical comedy Rugantino.

Like the Italian actor Totò, Fabrizi was also initiated into Scottish Rite Freemasonry. He was married to the singer Beatrice Rocchi, known as Reginella, until her death in 1981, and his sister Elena Fabrizi was also an actress. During his career he won two Nastro d'Argento Awards and a special David di Donatello for his career in 1988, and was awarded at the 1952 Cannes Film Festival for best screenplay for Cops and Robbers.