Actor Raoul Bova has enjoyed enormous success and popularity in his native Italy. His debut film, “Una Story Italiana” (1992), was both critically acclaimed and a hit at the box office. But to American audiences, the handsome and talented actor has remained a virtual unknown. With his American film debut, “Under the Tuscan Sun” (2003), directed by Audrey Wells and co-starring Oscar nominee Diane Lane, Bova attempted to achieved the same success he has enjoyed in his homeland.

Born in Rome on August 14, 1971, Raoul grew up to become a trained athlete and a national swimming champion. At 16,