Maria Callas

Full Name: Sophie Cecilia Kalos
Profession: Opera Singer

Biography: Greek-American soprano, known as "La Divina" (the Divine One) due to her broad range in acting and singing abilities, was one of the mid-twentieth century's most influential opera stars.

Born in New York City, she had a tumultuous family life and moved with her mother to Greece as a teenager, beginning formal training there. Her first fully staged opera performances were in Greece and Italy, in the early 1940's. Her talent eventually led her to stages all over the world. Her signature role was as the title character in Vincenzo Bellini's "Norma".

Health issues affecting her voice, her reputation as being difficult to work with, and a scandalous affair with Greek tycoon Aristotle Onassis slowed her operatic career, which ended in 1965. She became a teacher and made an unsuccessful attempt at film acting. After a brief 'farewell tour' of Japan in 1974, she lived a secluded life in Paris until dying of a heart attack at 53.

Born: December 2, 1923
Birthplace: Manhattan, New York, New York, USA

Generation: Greatest Generation
Chinese Zodiac: Pig
Star Sign: Sagittarius

Died: September 16, 1977 (aged 53)
Cause of Death: Heart attack