Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Monica Bellucci

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: October 16, 2025

A closer look at the most debated and controversial moments involving Monica Bellucci.

Monica Bellucci is an Italian actress and model recognized for her work in Italian, American, and French films. Beginning her career as a fashion model, she transitioned to acting, showcasing versatility across genres and languages. Her contributions to film have been acknowledged with awards like the David di Donatello and nominations at the Saturn and César Awards. In 2018, she was recognized by Forbes Italy as one of the 100 most successful Italian women.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

1977: Sexual abuse charges against Roman Polanski

In 1977, Roman Polanski faced sexual abuse charges, leading to his arrest in 2009. Monica Bellucci and others signed a petition in 2009 to support him.

2002: Controversial role in Irréversible

In 2002, Monica Bellucci co-starred in Gaspar Noé's Irréversible. The film premiered at the 2002 Cannes Film Festival, and generated controversy due to its graphic content.

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2004: Posed Nude for Vanity Fair Italy and Status with Cartier Made Public

In 2004, while pregnant, Monica Bellucci posed nude for the Italian cover of Vanity Fair in protest against Italian laws on in vitro fertilization. Also, her status as the only actress contractually bound to Cartier was made public.

2009: Support for Roman Polanski

In 2009, Monica Bellucci signed a petition along with other filmmakers to support film director Roman Polanski, who had been arrested in connection with his 1977 sexual abuse charges.

April 2010: Semi-Nude Cover for Vanity Fair Italy

In April 2010, Monica Bellucci posed semi-nude while pregnant for the cover of Vanity Fair Italy.

2011: French authorities sought unpaid taxes

In 2011, French authorities tried to recover unpaid French taxes for the tax years 2011 to 2013 from Monica Bellucci, suspecting tax evasion.

2013: French authorities sought unpaid taxes

In 2013, French authorities tried to recover unpaid French taxes for the tax years 2011 to 2013 from Monica Bellucci, suspecting tax evasion.

April 2016: Opening of Official Instagram Account and Censorship of Photograph

In April 2016, the agency Karin Models, representing Bellucci, launched her official Instagram account. That same year, Instagram censored a photograph taken by Fred Meylan of Bellucci swimming, pixelating parts of her body.

2018: French tax investigation

In 2018, French tax authorities investigated Monica Bellucci for non-declaration of a safe and bank accounts in Switzerland linked to an offshore company in the British Virgin Islands (BVI).