Date of Birth: October 18, 1920
Zodiac Sign: Libra
Date of Death: March 6, 1994
Biography
Melina Mercouri was a renowned Greek actress, singer, and politician. Born on October 18, 1920, in Athens, Greece, she grew up in a prominent political family. Her grandfather, Spyros Mercouris, was the mayor of Athens for over 30 years, and her father, Stamatis Mercouris, was a member of the Greek Parliament. Mercouri began her acting career in the theater and made her film debut in 1955 in “Stella,” directed by Michael Cacoyannis, which brought her international acclaim. She rose to international stardom with her role in the 1960 film “Never on Sunday,” for which she won the Best Actress Award at the Cannes Film Festival and received an Academy Award nomination. In addition to her illustrious acting career, Mercouri was a passionate advocate for the arts and cultural heritage. After the military junta took control of Greece in 1967, she became an outspoken critic, leading to her exile. Upon the restoration of democracy, she entered politics, serving as the Minister of Culture from 1981 to 1989 and again from 1993 to 1994. During her tenure, she famously campaigned for the return of the Parthenon Marbles from the British Museum. Melina Mercouri passed away on March 6, 1994, in New York City, leaving behind a legacy as a cultural icon and a dedicated public servant.
5 Interesting Facts about Melina Mercouri
1. Melina Mercouri was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in “Never on Sunday.”
2. She was a vocal opponent of the Greek military junta and lived in exile during their rule.
3. As Minister of Culture, she initiated the European Capital of Culture program.
4. Mercouri was married to French film director Jules Dassin, who directed her in several films.
5. She campaigned tirelessly for the return of the Parthenon Marbles to Greece.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Melina Mercouri
1. “I was born a Greek. I will die a Greek.”
2. “Greece is not a country. It is a state of mind.”
3. “The Parthenon Marbles must be returned to their home.”
4. “I hope to see the day when the Parthenon Marbles are back in Greece.”
5. “Culture is the soul of a nation.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of her career, Melina Mercouri’s net worth was estimated to be around $10 million.
Children
Melina Mercouri did not have any children.
Relevant Links
1. [Melina Mercouri – IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0580463/
2. [Biography on Britannica](https://www.britannica.com/biography/Melina-Mercouri
3. [Melina Mercouri Foundation](http://www.melinamercourifoundation.org.gr/
5. [Melina Mercouri’s Speech at the Oxford Union](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Yb0bD5D3bI
