Producers began to pursue her, eager to cast the radiant newcomer. But behind her graceful exterior, Cardinale was keeping a heartbreaking secret: she was pregnant as a result of a violent assault by an older man. She turned down most offers until one producer, Franco Cristaldi, managed to draw her in with promises of fame and protection. He became not just her manager but, eventually, her husband—though their relationship was one of control more than love.

Cristaldi insisted her pregnancy be hidden from the world. When her son, Patrick, was born, the public was told he was her younger brother.