Joanna Shimkus

Joanna Marie Shimkus, born on October 30, 1943, in Halifax, Nova Scotia, is a distinguished Canadian actress recognized for her contributions to film during the 1960s and early 1970s. She hails from a diverse background, with a Lithuanian Jewish father and an Irish Catholic mother, and was raised in Montreal after attending a convent school.

Shimkus embarked on her acting career with a debut in 1964 through Jean Aurel's film *De l'amour*. Shortly after, she gained prominence through her collaborations with acclaimed director Robert Enrico, starring in notable films like *Les aventuriers* (1967), alongside stars Alain Delon and Lino Ventura, and *Tante Zita* (1968). Her impressive portfolio also includes appearances in significant works such as *Boom!* (1968), featuring Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, and *The Lost Man* (1969), opposite Sidney Poitier.

Her cinematic journey continued with performances in films like *L'Invitée* (1969), *The Virgin and the Gypsy* (1970), *The Marriage of a Young Stockbroker* (1971), and *A Time for Loving* (1972). In 1976, she married the legendary Sidney Poitier, and together they welcomed two daughters, Anika and Sydney Tamiia Poitier, the latter also pursuing an acting career. Joanna Shimkus has three grandchildren. Following Sidney Poitier's passing on January 6, 2022, Joanna remains a respected figure in film history.