Sophie Loren, Brigitte Bardot: Two Icons Of 20th Century Turn 75

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The two cultural icons of the 20th century – the cult figures of Sophie Loren, Italy, and Brigitte Bardot, France, are turning 75: Loren celebrated her birthday on September 20, while Bardot is still technically 74 – she will celebrate her 75th birthday on September 28.  Their looks and artistic prowess have always been juxtaposed in the great debate of which one of them was the actress most symbolic of the 20th century. These two iconic women have often been compared to each other not only because of their contributions to the world of cinema, but also over their age proximity.

That led many people to contrast the way these two icons have aged. While, Sophie Loren is still posing for men’s Pirelli calendar, Bardot is lending her face to state photographers posing with national leaders and activists. Many say, Bardot has lost her natural beauty, while Loren is as attractive as ever. But, while the two of them are aging differently, the way Loren and Bardot are being portrayed in the media is reflective of what these two women do offstage. Bardot is famous for her animal welfare campaigns. Moreover, Bardot attracted some controversy when she spoke out against race-mixing and homosexuality. Her public image of a "concerned citizen" definitely took away from her advertising appeal. Loren, meanwhile, is as feminine as ever, associated primarily with her movie roles and her unceasing beauty.

The ways Bardot and Loren chose to age are very different, but both serve to show the upcoming generations of aging women that the choice is always theirs.