Biography

Maria-Hélène Schneider (27 March 1952 – 3 February 2011), known professionally as Maria Schneider, was a French actress. She is best known for co-starring opposite Marlon Brando in the controversial Last Tango in Paris (1972), which was noted for its graphic sexuality. Schneider later revealed she was not informed about a simulated rape until moments before it was filmed, an event she described as traumatic and humiliating. Although Michelangelo Antonioni's The Passenger (1975) showcased her abilities, a reputation for walking out of films during production resulted in her becoming unwelcome in the industry. However, she re-established stability in her personal and professional life in the early 1980s, and became an advocate for equality and improving the working conditions for actresses.