She was born in Genoa and began her career as a journalist for the weekly magazine "Oggi" in the early 1950s. In 1960, she joined the Italian version of "Playboy" magazine as a contributor and, in 1962, became the first female host of a television talk show, called "Studio Uno".
Over the years, Clerico worked for several major newspapers and magazines, such as "La Repubblica", "L'Espresso", "Il Messaggero", "Panorama", and "Corriere della Sera". She also published a number of novels, including "A Love Affair" (1968), "The Scandalous Life of Mona Clerico" (1970), and "The Seduction of the Mind" (1972).
In addition to her work as a journalist and writer, Clerico also appeared in several films, including "Roma bene" (1971) and "Fiorina la vacca" (1972). She also co-wrote the screenplays for several films, including "Il Dio serpente" (1970) and "The Lady in White" (1988).
Clerico was a controversial figure, known for her outspoken views on politics, religion, and sexuality. She was also a vocal critic of the mafia. She died in Rome at the age of 88.
Books:
- Amore senza fine (1971)
- Il Dio serpente (1970)
- La donna vestita di bianco (1972)
- L'amore, il tradimento, il delitto (1980)
- La scandalosa vita di Mona Clerico (1970)
- Il fascino del male (1988)
- Vi ho visti fare l'amore (1994)
Selected filmography:
- 1961: "Accardo - Tales of Mafia Honour"
- 1961: "Black Sunday"
- 1961: "The Fascist"
- 1962: "The Reluctant Saint"
- 1963: "Love and Fury"
- 1964: "Extraconiugale"
- 1965: "I complessi"
- 1966: "The Birds, the Bees and the Italians"
- 1968: "A Love Affair"
- 1970: "Roma bene"
- 1972: "Fiorina la vacca"