A 21-year age gap, a whirlwind romance, and a legendary Hollywood family — Carlo Ponti Jr., son of Sophia Loren, is engaged to Georgian fitness trainer Mariam Sharmanashvili.💍Their love story, sparked on Instagram, has captivated the internet. Dive into their journey and see the couple’s latest photos below 👇
Sophia Loren, the iconic Italian actress, is known for her lasting influence in cinema. She married film producer Carlo Ponti in 1966, and they had two sons: Carlo Jr. and Edoardo. After a long battle with infertility and two losses, Loren embraced motherhood as a blessing. Her husband passed away in January 2007. Both sons have built successful careers in the entertainment industry, with Edoardo following in his mother’s footsteps and Carlo Jr. finding his calling in music.
From Maestro to Fiancé: Carlo Ponti Jr.’s Private Life Steps Into the Spotlight
Carlo Ponti Jr., 55, a renowned conductor and the son of Loren and the late film producer Carlo Ponti Sr., has long kept a low profile despite his famous lineage. But fans are buzzing after he recently announced his engagement to Mariam Sharmanashvili, a 34-year-old Georgian fitness trainer and single mother.
With a 21-year age difference and a love story that started on Instagram, the pairing has sparked admiration, curiosity, and online discussion.
It All Started With “Bellissima”
The couple’s journey began in March 2021, when Mariam shared a piano photo on Instagram. Carlo Jr., evidently charmed, left a simple but bold comment: “Bellissima.” The message marked the start of a digital connection that overcame borders and language barriers.
They began chatting — using Google Translate at first — and soon arranged to meet in person. What began as online admiration quickly grew into something deeper.
“We found a connection that was instant, even through a screen,” Mariam later shared with friends.
A Birthday Surprise Proposal
After three years of balancing Carlo’s international travel schedule with Mariam’s life in Georgia, he popped the question on a meaningful date — September 20, 2024 — just one day before Sophia Loren’s 90th birthday.
Mariam said yes, and the couple is now planning a wedding in Georgia, her home country. She is also the proud mother of an 8-year-old son from a previous relationship, whom Carlo Jr. has reportedly embraced as part of his growing family.
Sophia Loren’s Legacy Continues
Sophia Loren’s journey to motherhood was not without hardship. After two miscarriages, she and Carlo Sr. welcomed Carlo Jr. and Edoardo, both of whom grew up surrounded by creativity, cinema, and classical music.
Carlo Jr. followed his passion for music, building a respected international career as a conductor. Edoardo, on the other hand, entered film directing — clearly inspired by his mother’s legendary career. Both sons have been seen by Loren’s side at awards shows, red carpets, and personal milestones.
Now, attention turns to the next generation — and the woman who may soon carry the title of Sophia Loren’s daughter-in-law.
Fans React:
“They look so in love — age is just a number!”
“What a modern fairytale — starting from Instagram and leading to marriage.”
“She’s stunning and seems genuine. I’m happy for Carlo!”
Still, as with all high-profile romances, not everyone agrees. Some online commenters raised questions about their age difference and lifestyle compatibility. Yet the couple remains focused on their future, supporting each other despite the challenges of distance and spotlight.
What’s Your Take?
Do you think Carlo Ponti Jr. and Mariam Sharmanashvili are a perfect match?
Can love like theirs overcome differences in age, culture, and fame?
Share your thoughts in the comments — we’d love to hear your perspective!