Isabella Rossellini: a legend of cinema, fashion and art

Isabella Rossellini is a unique figure in contemporary culture, whose career spans cinema, fashion, literature and environmental outreach. The daughter of two legends, Ingrid Bergman and Roberto Rossellini, she forged her own path from the international runways to starring in cult films, collaborating with avant-garde directors and establishing herself as both a storyteller and an environmental advocate. Her professional life blends elegance, versatility and a personal vision that has left a mark on various disciplines.

Early years and education

Born in Rome in 1952, she grew up in an environment shaped by film and culture. She spent her childhood between Italy, France and the United States, receiving a cosmopolitan education. At the age of 19, she moved to New York, where she studied at New York University and worked as a translator and freelance journalist before entering the world of fashion.

Career in fashion

Her entry into modeling was meteoric. She worked for photographers such as Richard Avedon, Steven Meisel and Bruce Weber, becoming one of the most recognizable faces in the industry during the 1970s and 1980s. Her contract as the face of Lancôme, which lasted for more than a decade, redefined how luxury brands presented mature women in advertising. Her presence conveyed sophistication and a naturalness far from superficial stereotypes.

Rise in cinema

Rossellini made her film debut with a small role in “A Matter of Time” (1976) alongside her mother. Her true breakthrough came with David Lynch’s Blue Velvet (1986), a work that established her as an actress capable of portraying complex characters with emotional intensity and psychological depth. She later appeared in films such as Wild at Heart, Cousins and Fearless, as well as in international productions exploring drama, comedy and experimental cinema.

Collaborations with directors and artistic projects

Throughout her career, Rossellini has worked with renowned filmmakers such as Joel Schumacher, Robert Zemeckis, Guy Maddin and Peter Weir. Her ability to adapt to different narrative styles allowed her to take part in both Hollywood productions and independent films. On television, she appeared in series such as Friends, Alias and 30 Rock, demonstrating an acting range that includes humor and self-parody.

Writing and outreach

Isabella has published memoirs and essays, including Some of Me, where she reflects on identity, beauty and her professional life. She also created the audiovisual project Green Porno, a series of educational and visually inventive shorts about animal reproduction, which earned international recognition for its originality and its ability to bring scientific topics closer to the public.

Activism and environmental work

Committed to environmental protection, Rossellini has served as an ambassador for biodiversity conservation campaigns and collaborated with organizations such as the Wildlife Conservation Network. She also runs an organic farm in Long Island, where she promotes sustainable agricultural practices and the connection between art, nature and everyday life.

Awards and distinctions

Her career has been recognized with numerous honors, from independent film awards to distinctions such as the Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur in France. In the fashion world, her return as Lancôme ambassador in 2016 was considered a symbolic move toward greater inclusion of women of all ages in the industry.

Public image and controversies

While her career has been largely respected, Rossellini has faced media episodes, such as her initial departure from Lancôme in the 1990s due to age-related issues, sparking debates about ageism in fashion. She addressed the experience candidly, turning it into a platform to advocate for diversity and representation of older women in the media.

Legacy and influence

Isabella Rossellini is an example of how authenticity and versatility can sustain a career spanning more than five decades. She has moved beyond the “daughter of” label to become a reference in cinema, fashion and cultural outreach. Her voice remains relevant in discussions on sustainability, women’s representation and contemporary art, building a legacy that blends elegance, intelligence and social commitment.