After being imported to America and groomed for the title role in MGM's Ben-Hur (1959), Danova lost his big break when Charlton Heston got the nod instead. Cast in Cleopatra (1963), Danova was scripted to be Elizabeth Taylor's on-screen lover when she wasn't being romanced by costars Rex Harrison and Richard Burton. But when the torrid off-screen Taylor/Burton affair generated headlines worldwide, Danova's role was cut severely, costing him what was considered another big break at stardom.
Became a born-again Christian in the late 1970s, and appeared many times on Pat Robertson's '700 Club' TV program, also taking part in 700 Club telethons.
Began a thriving career in European films when Dino De Laurentiis screen-tested and cast him in La figlia del capitano (1947) (The Captain's Daughter).
Disappointed his family by not becoming a doctor, just as he was on the verge of getting his degree.
His epitaph on his crypt at Valley Oaks Memorial Park in Westlake Village, California reads: "Praise the Lord".
Toured Italy in a theater company with someone he considered to be not only a good friend but the greatest of actresses, the legendary Anna Magnani.
Was a good friend of Sophia Loren.
Was an expert archer.
Was once considered for the title role in MGM's Ben-Hur (1959).