Sylvia Kristel, star of Emmanuelle (1974), was an icon of sexually related topics in mainstream cinema. Originally banned in Paris, the film played in a cinema on the Champs Elysee for 11 years.

Although Ms Kristel never, to our knowledge, had any piercings, the rise in the acceptability of body jewelry was preceded by the relaxed sexuality and acceptance of diversity which Ms Kristel helped to usher in, and we all owe her a debt of gratitude. Born in Utrecht, Holland, in 1952, Ms. Kristel lost her ten year battle with cancer October 17, 2012.

Click here for a more complete account of the life of Sylvia Kristel.