Sabrina Impacciatore is a testament to the fact that la dolce vita truly is as sweet as it sounds. The White Lotus veteran was eagerly awaiting the opportunity to celebrate her homeland and the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics as the Games officially commenced at the San Siro Olympic Stadium in Milan, Italy, on February 6th.
Born in Rome and renowned for her comedic prowess in Italy's entertainment industry, Sabrina paid homage to the rich history of her country and the host cities of Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo during the Opening Ceremony. Accompanied by fellow performers Mariah Carey, Italian singer and songwriter Laura Pausini, and renowned tenor Andrea Bocelli, the 57-year-old actress was a central figure in the celebrations.
After the Parade of Nations, Sabrina appeared in a pre-recorded skit introducing this year's Olympic mascots, Tina and Milo. Donning a stunning silver-and-gold lamé outfit, she then took to the stage live for a six-minute dance number celebrating the Olympics through the decades.
Sabrina, who has also appeared in the American series The Paper alongside The White Lotus, was first announced to be participating in the Opening Ceremony in December. A press release stated that she is "an actress of extraordinary sensitivity and talent," describing her as "authentic and charismatic" with a "versatility capable of transcending cultural and linguistic boundaries." It further noted that her participation "represents a valuable contribution to the narrative of the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games," adding that on stage at the San Siro Stadium, the Emmy-nominated actress would "offer audiences a moment of powerful emotional impact, giving shape and voice to the spirit of the Games."
While Milan was the starting point for the 2026 Olympics, it wasn't the only place celebrating. There were activations, ceremonies, and athlete parades in Predazzo, Livigno, and Milan's fellow host city, Cortina d'Ampezzo. Due to the dual nature of the double host cities, Olympic history was being made as for the first time ever there would be two Olympic cauldrons, which are ceremoniously lit by the Olympic torch during the Opening Ceremony. One is located in Milan at the city's iconic Arco della Pace, while the other is in Piazza Dibona in the heart of Cortina d'Ampezzo.
