Dalida (1933–1987)

views updated

Dalida (1933–1987)

Egyptian-born French singer and dancer. Born Yolande Christina Gigliotti, Jan 17, 1933, in Cairo, Egypt (some sources cite Serrasatra, Calabria, Italy), to Italian parents; committed suicide, May 3, 1987, in Paris, France; dau. of the 1st violinist of the opera in Cairo; m. Julien Morisse, April 8, 1961 (but ran off with painter Jean Sobiesky 3 months later, a relationship that ended in 1963).

Moved to Paris (1956); began using stage name Dalida and established a successful singing and dancing career, often singing French versions of American, British and Italian hits; came to prominence with "Bambino" and "Gondolier"; starred in the French-Egyptian film Le Sixième Jour (1986).