Maria Cucinotta is an Italian actress and model. She was born on July 27, 1968, in Messina, Italy. Cucinotta initially studied law before deciding to pursue a career in the entertainment industry.

Cucinotta first gained international recognition for her role as the Bond girl "Cigar Girl" in the 1999 James Bond film "The World is Not Enough". She has also appeared in a number of other films, including "Il Postino" (1994), "Il Sole Nella Pelle" (1996), and "A Brooklyn State of Mind" (1997).

In addition to her film work, Cucinotta has also had success on television, both in Italy and internationally. She has appeared in a number of Italian TV shows, including "La Squadra" and "Boris", as well as international shows such as "The Sopranos" and "The L Word".

Outside of acting, Cucinotta is also a goodwill ambassador for the United Nations, and has been involved in a number of charitable organizations over the years. She is married to the Italian producer and director Giuseppe Tornatore.