Ingrid Lilian Thulin, a celebrated and accomplished Swedish film actress, was born on January 27, 1926, in the charming town of Sollefteå, situated in the picturesque region of Ångermanland, nestled in the northernmost part of Sweden. Her birth was a significant event, marking the beginning of a life that would be filled with artistic expression and a passion for the performing arts.
Thulin's early life was marked by a strong foundation in ballet, which would later become the cornerstone of her future career. This early introduction to the world of dance and movement would lay the groundwork for her future success, providing her with a solid foundation in terms of technique, discipline, and creativity.
Thulin's professional journey commenced in 1948 when she was accepted by The Royal Dramatic Theatre, a renowned institution in Stockholm, marking the beginning of her illustrious career. For a considerable number of years, she had the privilege of collaborating with the highly acclaimed and esteemed Ingmar Bergman, appearing in a multitude of his films, including the iconic Wild Strawberries, released in 1957, as well as The Magician, which premiered in 1958. Her association with Bergman continued, and she went on to appear in Winter Light, which was released in 1962, followed by The Silence in 1963, and Cries and Whispers, which was released in 1972.
Ingmar Bergman's lead actress, Thulin, enjoyed a illustrious career marked by widespread recognition and accolades. Among her many notable achievements, she shared the prestigious Best Actress award at the 1958 Cannes Film Festival, a testament to her exceptional skill in the craft. Her captivating performance in the 1964 film, The Silence, earned her the esteemed Guldbagge Award for Best Actress, further solidifying her reputation as a masterful thespian. Her remarkable talent continued to be celebrated, as she received the David di Donatello Award in 1974, a nod to her remarkable range and depth as an actress. Additionally, her impressive work was recognized with a nomination for the BAFTA Award in the same year, a testament to her enduring impact on the world of cinema.
Thulin's professional endeavors extended far beyond her impressive film career, as she also had the distinction of serving as the head of the esteemed jury at the 30th Berlin International Film Festival in the year 1980.
Thulin's later years were characterized by her passion for exploring new horizons and residing in exotic locales. She possessed a stunning apartment in the City of Light, Paris, France, and a picturesque beach house in San Felice Circeo, Italy. In 1970, she made the bold decision to relocate to Sacrofano, Italy, where she resided for an impressive 34 years, immersing herself in the local culture and way of life.
Despite her love for her adopted home, her health began to deteriorate, and she was forced to return to her native Sweden for medical treatment. Unfortunately, her battle with cancer ultimately proved futile, and she succumbed to the disease on January 7, 2004, just 20 days shy of her 78th birthday.
