Ritorno in Sicilia: Aprire una Pasticceria a 22 Anni
Nicole Grimaudo, a 46-year-old actress with a 32-year career, is currently experiencing a unique moment in her profession. Her latest film, Solo mio, a fully American production, debuted at number two in the U.S. Box office on February 6th, grossing over 3 million dollars on its opening weekend. Despite this success, Grimaudo was not present at the New York premiere on January 27th, as she was committed to filming a new series for Rai1 in Italy.
A Different Approach to Visibility
Grimaudo’s choice to prioritize her current work over the high-profile premiere stands in contrast to many in the entertainment industry, who often seek maximum visibility. She previously appeared in Maschi veri on Netflix in 2025 and Un professore with Alessandro Gassmann on Rai1.
Navigating a New Role
Grimaudo secured the lead female role in Solo mio after the production team, searching for an Italian actress, discovered her performance in Ferzan Ozpetek’s Mine vaganti. Initially hesitant due to her limited English proficiency, she was persuaded to audition via video call. To prepare, she dedicated two months to intensely studying her lines, even to the point of exhaustion.
An Unexpected Connection with Kevin James
The audition process involved a humorous and unconventional approach. Grimaudo initially used Google Translate to understand the conversation with the directors, Charles and Daniel Kinnane, lead actor Kevin James, and producers Jeffrey Greenstein and Mark Fasano. This led to a lively exchange filled with gestures and attempts at communication, which resonated with the filmmakers, as her character was also an Italian woman with limited English. Following the successful audition, the team traveled to Italy, where James experienced Rome via a scooter ride with Grimaudo, describing it as a joyful experience.
The Story Behind Solo mio
The film centers around Kevin James’ character traveling to Rome for his wedding, only to be left at the altar. He decides to continue his honeymoon in Tuscany, visiting Andrea Bocelli’s estate in Lajatico and the Teatro del Silenzio, before encountering Gia, played by Grimaudo, who runs a bar in Piazza Mattei.
Cultural Nuances and Appreciation on Set
Grimaudo noted that while the character’s name, Gia, is uncommon in Italy, the filmmakers were unwilling to change it. She also highlighted a significant difference in work environments, describing a greater level of appreciation and enthusiasm on the American set, where applause followed successful takes. This contrasted with a tendency towards critique she has experienced in Italian productions.
Future Prospects
Grimaudo has already received multiple inquiries about potentially relocating to America for future projects. She is currently finishing a series titled Ci vorrebbe un’amica, with Bianca Guaccero and Aurora Ruffino, and remains open to opportunities in the U.S. If a suitable project arises. She also mentioned a possible sequel to a previous project, with video footage already being circulated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Nicole Grimaudo to take on the role in Solo mio despite her concerns about her English?
The production team’s enthusiasm and the fact that her character was also meant to be an Italian woman with limited English skills ultimately convinced her to accept the role.
Where was Solo mio primarily filmed?
The film was primarily shot in Italy, with locations including Rome and Tuscany, specifically Andrea Bocelli’s estate in Lajatico and the Teatro del Silenzio.
How does Grimaudo describe the work environment on the American set compared to Italian sets?
She described the American set as having a greater level of appreciation and enthusiasm, with frequent applause after good takes, contrasting with a tendency towards critique in Italian productions.
What aspects of an international collaboration, like the one Grimaudo experienced, do you think are most crucial for a successful outcome?