Background
Born in Rome as Mario Bonavolontà, the son of a composer, Riva debuted at young age as a dubber and a radio actor.
Born in Rome as Mario Bonavolontà, the son of a composer, Riva debuted at young age as a dubber and a radio actor.
He appeared in 51 films between 1941 and 1960. He became first known as presenter of the stage show Clan (1942). After a long season of successes on stage (often in couple with Riccardo Billi) Riva reached the peak of his career with the Radiotelevisione Italiana variety television Il musichiere (1957-1960).
He also appeared on several films, usually in supporting roles.
While he was presenting from the Arena di Verona a special event linked to the television program, the Secondo Festival del Musichiere, he inadvertently fell into a hole in the stage covered with a tarpaulin and died. Serenate per 16 bionde.