Ida Galli, a captivating Italian actress, emerged in the vibrant cinematic landscape of Rome after completing her education with dreams of teaching. Her journey into film began serendipitously in 1959 when a chance encounter with actor Gérard Landry led to a small role in the musical comedy Nel blu, dipinto di blu.
This debut sparked the attention of legendary director Federico Fellini, who cast her in a minor yet memorable part in La Dolce Vita, launching a prolific career that spanned over three decades. Galli's versatility shone in more than forty-five films, from the sweeping drama of Luchino Visconti's The Leopard, where she portrayed Carolina, to her commanding presence in spaghetti Westerns like Blood for a Silver Dollar and giallo thrillers such as The Psychic.
Her adoption of the pseudonym Evelyn Stewart in the 1960s amplified her success in genre films, though critics noted her dramatic roles showcased her depth most vividly. A former child actress, Galli brought authenticity to every performance, often alongside her son, Alessandro Cocco, in films like Syndicate Sadists.
Despite a missed opportunity to star in Visconti's Death in Venice due to scheduling conflicts, her contributions to Italian cinema remain undeniable. Galli's final screen appearance came in 1990's Con i piedi per aria, capping a legacy defined by resilience, adaptability, and an undeniable screen presence that enchanted audiences across art-house and genre cinema alike.
