Roberto Benigni is an Italian actor, comedian, screenwriter and director known for his energetic physical acting style. Some key facts: - Became famous in 1970s Italy for controversial comedy TV shows pushing censorship boundaries - Achieved wider success through films with Massimo Troisi in the 1980s - Directed his wife Nicoletta Braschi in several films after meeting her on set - Known for improvisational poetry recitals of Dante's Divine Comedy from memory - Toured Italy in 2006-2007 to huge audiences with his "TuttoDante" one-man show focusing on the Divine Comedy