Elena Nathanael was an American actress best known for her roles in Greek cinema during the 1960s and 1970s, including films like Randevou me mia agnosti and the TV series Aggigma psyhis. Born in Athens, Greece, she became a symbol of the “new woman” in her era, recognized for her stunning beauty and strong on-screen presence.
Personal and Family Life
Elena Nathanael was born on January 31, 1941, in Athens to a prosperous textile designer. She had one daughter named Inca, and was the aunt of TV game show hostess Anita Nathanael. Elena’s beauty captured the attention of filmmakers in Greece, leading to significant roles in the rapidly growing film industry of that time.
Career Highlights
Elena began her acting journey after studying drama at Pellos Katselis’ Drama School. She made her film debut in 1963 with Kati na kaiei and quickly became a prominent figure in Greek cinema. Winning the Best Actress award at the Salonica Film Festival in 1968 solidified her status, but by the early 1970s, the decline of the film industry led to a pause in her career until her return in the late 1980s with several light comedies.
Death and Legacy
Elena Nathanael passed away from lung cancer on March 4, 2008, in Athens, Greece. Her contributions to Greek cinema, especially her portrayal of the evolving female identity, left a lasting impact. She is remembered as a talented actress who embodied the spirit of her time.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Il sorriso del ragno | 1971-10-12 | |
| Κάτι να Καίει | 1964-01-13 | Jenny Petridi |
| Ξύπνα Βασίλη | 1969-04-13 | Dina Vasilaki |
| Ο Φόβος | 1966-02-28 | Anna Kanali |
| Αναζήτησις | 1972-01-01 | Elena Chrysou |
| Ντάμα σπαθί | 1966-06-12 | Elena |
| Ραντεβού Με Μια Άγνωστη | 1970-01-01 | |
| Απίθανοι αλλοιώτικοι κι ωραίοι…. | 1982-01-01 | |
| Άγγιγμα ψυχής | 1998-10-05 | Τζούλια Μεγαπάνου |
| Γοργόνες | 2007-10-01 | Μάγια |