A David di Donatello for Best Supporting Actor was awarded to Libero De Rienzo in 2002 for his performance in the film Santa Maradona. This recognition arrived during a breakout year for the Neapolitan artist, who established a career in Italy as a versatile actor, screenwriter, director, and film editor before his sudden death in 2021.
Early Career and Breakthrough
Born in Naples in 1977 and raised in Rome, De Rienzo initiated his professional trajectory in the Italian film industry. The year 2001 proved pivotal, as he secured roles in three distinct productions: Fat Girl, Gioco con la morte, and Santa Maradona. His contributions to the latter earned him significant industry acclaim, including the aforementioned David di Donatello award.
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Beyond acting, De Rienzo engaged in the creative mechanics of filmmaking by writing and directing. His 2005 project, Blood, Death Does Not Exist, served as a platform for these multifaceted skills. The production garnered international attention, securing both the Best Feature Award and the Grand Chameleon Award at the 2006 Brooklyn Film Festival.
Television and Later Film Projects
De Rienzo maintained a consistent presence in television and cinema throughout the 2000s. His television credits include roles in the miniseries Nassiryia – Per non Dimenticare, My House in Umbria, and Aldo Moro – Il Presidente. On the big screen, he was featured in the 2004 film A/R andata+ritorno and the 2009 production Fortapasc, continuing his work within the national industry.
Death and Investigation
On 15 July 2021, De Rienzo died at his home in Rome at the age of 44. Following his death, the Procura of Roma initiated an investigation into the circumstances, ordering an autopsy due to initial suspicions of drug use. Official confirmation on 30 September 2021 concluded that his death was caused by an accidental drug overdose.
Fast facts
- Born: 1977, Naples
- Died: 15 July 2021, Rome
- Citizenship: Italy
- Primary Occupations: Actor, screenwriter, director, film editor
- Key Award: David di Donatello for Best Supporting Actor (2002)
- Age at death: 44
Questions readers ask
What was the cause of Libero De Rienzo's death?
He died of an accidental drug overdose.
For which film did he win a David di Donatello?
He won for his supporting role in the 2001 film Santa Maradona.
Achievements
- Worked as actor, screenwriter and film editor
