Mario Riva

Mario Riva (26 January 1912 – 1 September 1960) was an Italian presenter and actor. He appeared in 51 films between 1941 and 1960.

Life and career

Born in Rome as Mario Bonavolontà, the son of a composer, Riva debuted at young age as a dubber and a radio actor.

He became first known as presenter of the stage show Clan (1942). After a long season of successes on stage (often in couple with Riccardo Billi) Riva reached the peak of his career with the RAI variety television Il musichiere (1957-1960). He also appeared on several films, usually in supporting roles.

While he was presenting from the Arena di Verona a special event linked to the TV program, the Secondo Festival del Musichiere, he inadvertently fell into a hole in the stage covered with a tarpaulin and died.

He was married to the actress Diana Dei.

Selected filmography