Hollywood is often painted as a land of glitz and glamour, where stars shine brightly and careers soar to incredible heights. However, not every talent remains in the limelight. Some, like Sydne Rome, experience a meteoric rise only to fade into obscurity. Rome, once touted as the next Brigitte Bardot, captivated audiences with her beauty and talent but faced a life filled with unexpected turns, including a devastating accident that left her scarred for life.
This is the story of a woman who dared to dream, challenged the norms, and found her light even in the darkest of times.
Early Life: A Small-Town Girl with Big Dreams
Born on March 17, 1951, in Akron, Ohio, Sydne Rome grew up far from the glitz of Hollywood. Her father worked in the plastic manufacturing industry, while her mother, whom Sydne described as a “born hippie,” nurtured her free-spirited personality. Raised in the small community of Upper Sandusky, Ohio, Rome came from a comfortable, upper-middle-class family.
Unlike many Hollywood stars who follow in the footsteps of famous parents, Sydne carved her own path. Acting was not a family legacy but a passion she cultivated during her teenage years. Determined to pursue her dream, she enrolled in the Carnegie Tech School of Acting at Pittsburgh University, honing her craft under renowned mentors. From Shakespearean classics to Chekhov’s dramas, Sydne proved her versatility on stage.
A Rocky Start in Hollywood
After her studies, Sydne set her sights on Hollywood, hoping to translate her theatrical success to the silver screen. However, her early attempts were less than stellar. Roles were hard to come by, and her big Hollywood break seemed elusive. Her first notable opportunity, a role in Candy, fell through, prompting her to seek opportunities elsewhere.
Instead of remaining in California, Rome ventured to Europe, where her beauty and charm quickly caught the attention of filmmakers. With her striking blonde hair and piercing blue eyes, she stood out in an era dominated by glamorous stars like Brigitte Bardot and Raquel Welch.
Rising Stardom in Europe
The Roman Polanski Connection
Sydne’s big break came in 1972 when she starred in Roman Polanski’s What?. Although the film received mixed reviews, it cemented her as a rising star in European cinema. Her captivating screen presence and undeniable charisma earned her comparisons to Hollywood icons, with many dubbing her the “next Brigitte Bardot.”
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Success in Italian and French Cinema
Rome thrived in the European film scene, starring in a string of French, Italian, and German films throughout the 1970s. Despite her talent, she struggled to secure major roles in the US, leading her to embrace her newfound fame abroad. Critics praised her performances, and she quickly became a household name in Europe.
A Brush with David Bowie and Romance Rumors
During the late 1970s, Sydne worked alongside legendary musician David Bowie in Just a Gigolo. Their on-screen chemistry sparked rumors of a real-life romance, which Rome later confirmed. The pair reportedly dated for a year, with Sydne recalling their time together fondly. “He was so much fun and appetizing,” she shared in a 2021 interview.
Life Beyond Acting: Music, Family, and a Personal Tragedy
Venturing into Music
As the 1980s dawned, Rome explored new creative outlets, including music. She released several albums but struggled to replicate her cinematic success in the recording industry. Despite the challenges, Sydne remained dedicated to her craft, embracing both acting and music as forms of self-expression.
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Building a Family
Rome married twice, first to photographer Emilio Lari and later to Dr. Roberto Bernabei. With Bernabei, she adopted two daughters from the favelas of Sao Paulo, Brazil. The family became her anchor, providing love and stability as her career ebbed and flowed.
The Accident That Changed Everything
In 2009, Sydne Rome’s life took a tragic turn. While driving with her eight-year-old daughter, she lost control of her car and collided with a tree. Although the airbags saved her life, they caused significant damage to her face. Initially dismissed as superficial injuries, the trauma later led to partial facial paralysis.
Reflecting on the accident, Sydne revealed the profound impact it had on her self-image. “I know it’s me, but it’s like seeing another person,” she said, looking at old photos of herself. Despite the physical and emotional toll, she refused to let the accident define her, undergoing physical therapy and continuing to work in the entertainment industry.
A Quiet Resurgence
Later Career Highlights
Even after the accident, Sydne remained active in the entertainment world. She took on a recurring role in the Italian series Don Matteo, appearing in 53 episodes between 2021 and 2022. In 2023, she starred in the Italian film La Quattordicesima Domenica Del Tempo Ordinario, showcasing her enduring passion for acting.
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Advocacy and Resilience
Beyond her career, Sydne became an advocate for embracing change and finding beauty in resilience. Her journey inspired many, proving that setbacks—no matter how severe—can be overcome with determination and grace.
Legacy of a Forgotten Star
Sydne Rome may not have achieved the same level of fame as her contemporaries, but her impact on the world of cinema and her personal journey resonate deeply. From her early struggles in Hollywood to her triumphant rise in Europe and her courageous recovery from tragedy, she embodies resilience and grace.
Her story reminds us that success isn’t always measured by fame or fortune. Sometimes, it’s about finding fulfillment in unexpected places, cherishing family, and staying true to oneself. At 72, Sydne continues to shine, proving that stars never truly fade—they simply find new ways to light up the world.