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Walter Chiari

Walter Chiari (8 March 1924 – 20 December 1991) was an Italian stage and screen actor, comedian, television presenter, and singer, best known for his charismatic and often comedic roles that captured the spirit of post-war Italian entertainment. Born Walter Annicchiarico in Verona, Italy, he rose to prominence in the late 1940s after a brief athletic background as a swimming and boxing champion, debuting in film with Vanità (1947) and gaining critical notice for his role as a cynical seducer in Luchino Visconti's Bellissima (1951). Chiari's career spanned over four decades, encompassing more than 100 films, numerous stage productions—including over 40 plays and musicals—and popular television appearances on , where he hosted variety shows that showcased his wit and improvisational skills. He achieved international recognition through roles in English-language films such as The Little Hut (1957), opposite with whom he had a widely publicized three-year , and Orson Welles's (1966). His work frequently collaborated with acclaimed directors like , , and Steno, often portraying debonair yet flawed everymen in comedies that reflected Italy's social changes. On , he made his debut in the musical The Gay Life (), earning praise for his charm despite language barriers. Despite his professional success, Chiari's personal life was marked by high-profile romances with stars like and , a marriage to actress Alida Chelli (1969–1981) that produced son Simone Annicchiarico, and significant legal challenges. In 1970, he was arrested for drug possession and trafficking but was later acquitted; a 1984 interview where he admitted to past drug use led to further accusations, though the case was dismissed. These scandals temporarily halted his television work but did not end his career, as he continued acting until his death. Chiari suffered a fatal heart attack at his home on 20 December 1991, at the age of 67, and was buried in the Cimitero Monumentale.

Early Life and Military Service

Birth and Family Background

Walter Annicchiarico was born on 8 March 1924 in Verona, Italy, to parents of modest origins who had emigrated from Puglia in southern Italy. His father, Carmelo Annicchiarico, was a brigadier in the public security forces, originally from Grottaglie near Taranto, while his mother, Vincenza Tedesco, was an elementary school teacher from Andria. The family resided in the historic center of Verona, specifically in Via Quattro Spade, immersing young Walter in the city's vibrant cultural atmosphere from an early age. The Annicchiarico household reflected the working-class dynamics common among southern Italian migrants in the north, with the father's role instilling a sense of discipline and structure, though it was also marked by personal challenges that later influenced Walter's drive for self-improvement. His mother's teaching profession likely fostered an early appreciation for education and expression, contributing to a nurturing environment amid economic constraints. Walter spent his initial childhood years in , attending local schools where he received a , before the family relocated to around age nine due to his father's job transfer. In Milan, he continued his schooling but soon took on odd jobs, such as working as a warehouse clerk at the automobile factory, reflecting the practical realities of his upbringing. During his formative years, Walter developed an interest in performance through informal channels, including participation in street groups and excelling in sports like , , and , which honed his charisma and physical presence—qualities that would later define his stage persona. Verona's rich theatrical heritage, with its ancient amphitheater and tradition of and , provided subtle early exposure to , sparking aspirations beyond his modest circumstances. He adopted the stage name "Walter Chiari" in his late teens, shortening his surname Annicchiarico as it was too long for theater posters, signaling his budding ambitions in as a means of social ascent. This transition from athletic pursuits to performative dreams set the stage for his entry into the world of theater and .

World War II Involvement

During , Walter Chiari, born Walter Annicchiarico in , enlisted in the armed forces of the (RSI) in late 1943 at the age of 19, shortly after the armistice of 8 September 1943. He initially joined the (X MAS), a unit of the RSI's National Republican Navy, where he contributed vignettes to the unit's weekly publication L’orizzonte. Later, as an Italian volunteer, he was incorporated into a German anti-aircraft unit of the , undergoing training in before deployment to northern . In early 1944, Chiari was sent to the region, where he fought alongside German forces against the Allied invasion. During the intense combat of D-Day on 6 June 1944, he sustained slight wounds but continued serving in the subsequent campaign, including movements toward and the offensive later that year. Captured by Allied troops, he was taken and eventually transferred to the POW at Coltano near , established in May 1945 for high-profile Italian fascists and collaborators. At Coltano (PWE 337), Chiari endured harsh conditions alongside other notable detainees, including actors Raimondo Vianello, , and , as well as writer ; the camp held around 30,000 prisoners by mid-1945, marked by overcrowding, limited rations, and psychological strain from interrogation and isolation. He was released by late 1945, following the camp's closure in December, and returned to . The physical effects of his minor wounds were short-term, but the wartime experiences, including combat trauma and , contributed to a reticence about his service that persisted until details emerged posthumously in 1991.

Professional Career

Entry into Entertainment and Early Successes

Following his demobilization after , Walter Chiari sought a new path in , transitioning from to lighter pursuits amid Italy's recovery. In 1946, he began performing in , initially gaining attention through spots on the program L'ora del dilettante, where he showcased imitations of that highlighted his emerging talent for and . This radio exposure marked his entry into the burgeoning scene, providing a platform to hone his spontaneous comedic delivery in the chaotic enthusiasm of liberated . Chiari's professional theater debut came the same year in revue productions, starting with small roles in Se ti bacia Lola alongside Marisa Maresca, whose company offered him early training in musical comedy and avanspettacolo-style . He soon appeared in Rosso di sera, a scripted by mentor Marchesi, which allowed him to experiment with dialogue-driven sketches and abandon outdated comedic tropes for a more relatable, narrative approach. These performances in Milan's vibrant post-war and variety theaters established his style of improvisation and audience engagement, drawing from influences like Marchesi's satirical wit. Through these early collaborations with rising figures such as Maresca and Marchesi, Chiari achieved initial recognition in the landscape by the late 1940s, positioning him as a fresh voice in revue theater amid the revival of comedic traditions. His breakthrough came via consistent roles in small ensembles, where his natural charisma and adaptability to themes of and humor resonated with audiences seeking . This foundational period solidified his comedic persona, setting the stage for broader success without delving into formal training beyond on-the-job mentorships.

Stage and Theater Achievements

Walter Chiari's stage career began in the scene in 1946, where he made an impromptu debut in the Se ti bacia Lola, honing his skills in comedic timing and audience engagement before transitioning to larger theater productions. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Chiari became a leading figure in revue theater, particularly through collaborations with directors Garinei and Sandro Giovannini, who crafted musical comedies that blended satire, song, and sketch work. His breakthrough came with Buonanotte in 1956, a hit revue co-starring Delia Scala, where Chiari's charismatic portrayal of the suave everyman drove sold-out runs at Rome's Teatro Sistina and subsequent national tours, establishing him as a box-office draw with his blend of verbal wit and . Other notable revues included Gildo (1950) with Glori, Sogno di un Walter (1951), and Un mandarino per Teo (1960) alongside Sandra Mondaini and Ave Ninchi, in which Chiari's improvisational flair allowed him to extend sketches into extended performances, captivating audiences with spontaneous humor and musical interludes. Chiari's comedic persona evolved from cabaret's quick-witted monologues to a more versatile stage presence in musicals, often incorporating singing—such as playful tunes in revues—and ad-libbed interactions that mirrored the neurotic charm of figures like , earning him the nickname "the Italian ." This style shone internationally in his Broadway debut as Anatol in The Gay Life (1961), a musical adaptation of Arthur Schnitzler's works directed by Gerald Freedman and choreographed by , co-starring ; though the production ran for 113 performances at the Shubert Theatre, it marked Chiari's successful crossover to American audiences. His theater work garnered critical acclaim for live dynamism, culminating in a Maschere d'Argento award in 1962 for contributions to Italian stage comedy.

Film and Television Contributions

Walter Chiari made his film debut in the 1947 historical melodrama Vanità, directed by Giorgio Pastina, where he portrayed the lead role of Enrico Scotti, earning him the Nastro d'Argento for Best New Actor. This early success marked the beginning of his prominence in Italian cinema, particularly within the commedia all'italiana genre, which blended satire, social commentary, and light-hearted farce to reflect Italian society. His roles often showcased his charm as a roguish , drawing from his theatrical improvisational skills to infuse characters with witty, relatable energy. Chiari's breakthrough came with his portrayal of the opportunistic Alberto Annovazzi in Luchino Visconti's 1951 neorealist drama Bellissima, opposite , where he played a slick aspiring entangled in a mother's desperate quest for her daughter's stardom. The film highlighted his ability to balance comedic flair with dramatic nuance, contributing to the genre's evolution by humanizing ambitious figures in a changing . He further solidified his status in international productions with the role of the playful native Mario in the 1957 British romantic comedy The Little Hut, directed by Mark Robson, starring alongside , , and in a tale of marital intrigue on a desert island. In the , Chiari expanded into more prestigious international collaborations, including a supporting role as Justice Silence in Orson Welles's 1966 adaptation of Shakespeare , a renowned for its innovative blending of history and tragedy centered on Falstaff. His comedic timing added levity to the ensemble, which featured Welles, , and . This period also saw him in the gangster drama The Valachi Papers (1972), directed by Terence Young, where he played Dominick "The Gap" Petrilli, a mob contact introducing the protagonist to the underworld, based on real events from . Chiari's television work from the 1960s through the 1980s adapted his stage-honed comedic style to the small screen, particularly in variety shows broadcast by , Italy's national broadcaster. He hosted and starred in programs like Il Mattatore (1959–1960), a mixed variety format directed by Daniele D'Anza, featuring sketches, music, and guest appearances that showcased his improvisational humor alongside talents like and . These appearances, extending into later decades with similar series, allowed him to engage audiences through satirical monologues and character-driven comedy, maintaining his popularity amid evolving media landscapes. As his career progressed, Chiari shifted toward more serious dramatic roles, exemplified by his performance as the estranged father in the 1986 family drama Romance, directed by , where he explored themes of reconciliation and marital strife opposite ; for this, he received the Pasinetti Award for Best Actor at the . This evolution demonstrated his versatility beyond , reflecting a deeper engagement with personal and relational complexities in late-career .

Personal Life and Relationships

Romantic Affairs and Public Romances

Walter Chiari's romantic entanglements during the and frequently captured media attention, cementing his reputation as a charismatic seducer in the glittering world of cinema. His most publicized affair was with star , which ignited in 1956 on the set of the film The Little Hut (also known as La capannina) in , where the two co-starred and quickly became engaged. The relationship, lasting approximately two years until 1957, drew intense tabloid scrutiny, with and press chronicling their lavish outings in and , often portraying Chiari as the dashing European counterpart to Gardner's tempestuous allure. This high-visibility romance not only boosted Chiari's international profile but also amplified his image, blending seamlessly with his on-screen persona as a witty, irresistible rogue in comedies. Prior to Gardner, Chiari shared a significant romance with Italian actress Lucia Bosè in the early 1950s, marked by a four-year that captivated gossip columns before dissolving just short of . Their on-again, off-again dynamic, fueled by joint appearances like Era lei che lo voleva (1953), exemplified the era's blend of professional collaboration and personal drama, drawing public fascination to Chiari's emotional intensity. Throughout the decade, Chiari's romantic life brimmed with liaisons involving other luminaries, including actresses , , and Delia Scala, as well as singer and even royalty such as Maria Gabriella di Savoia. These short-term flings and rumored scandals with showgirls and co-stars embodied the hedonistic "" ethos, regularly splashed across magazines like Epoca and Gente, which sensationalized his conquests and contributed to a public perception of Chiari as Italy's quintessential "." This , while occasionally sparking envy and moralistic critiques in conservative circles, endeared him to audiences by mirroring the flirtatious charm of his theatrical and film roles, enhancing his appeal as a symbol of post-war Italian glamour.

Marriage, Family, and Children

Walter Chiari married Italian actress and singer Alida Chelli on March 22, 1969, in a ceremony held in a church following their engagement during the filming of the 1966 movie Sono strana gente. The couple, who had met on the Australian film set three years earlier, settled into family life in after returning to . Their union produced one son, Simone Annicchiarico, born on August 8, 1970, whom Chiari and Chelli raised together during their marriage. In Milan, Chiari and Chelli shared a domestic life centered on their young family, with the couple occasionally collaborating professionally in the entertainment industry, including joint appearances that reflected their intertwined careers in theater and television. Despite these shared endeavors, their marriage faced challenges and ended in divorce in 1981 after twelve years. Post-divorce, Chiari and Chelli maintained a cooperative relationship focused on co-parenting Simone, ensuring his stability amid their professional lives in Italy's vibrant media scene. Simone Annicchiarico followed in his parents' footsteps, embarking on a career in entertainment that highlighted the familial legacy of performance and media presence. Debuting on television in 1995 as a on RAI's children's program !!! !!!, he later became a prominent host, presenting shows such as on from 2009 to 2013 and on from 2007 to 2013. Annicchiarico's path as a TV presenter and occasional actor underscores the influence of Chiari's comedic charisma and Chelli's artistic versatility on the next generation.

Legal Issues and Later Years

1970 Drug Arrest and Trial

On May 20, 1970, Walter Chiari was arrested in Rome while en route to the RAI radio studios for a recording session, charged with possession of cocaine for personal use and alleged trafficking as part of a larger narcotics ring. The arrest stemmed from an investigation into drug distribution among Italian entertainment figures, where authorities seized substances linked to Chiari and others during raids on a boat used for smuggling. He was immediately detained in Rome's Regina Coeli prison, where he remained in isolation for 98 days until his release on bail of three million lire on August 28, 1970. During his imprisonment, Chiari learned of the birth of his son Simone on August 8, 1970, a personal milestone he later described with regret, stating, "I didn't see him being born, I was in isolation... I didn't know who to tell." The case was connected to a high-profile 1970 crackdown on cocaine use and distribution in Rome's celebrity circles, which also implicated musician Lelio Luttazzi and at least ten others accused of involvement in the same ring. This scandal highlighted growing concerns over narcotics spreading from Italy's "dolce vita" elite to broader society, with arrests tied to a yacht-based smuggling operation. Media coverage was intense and sensational, dominating Italian headlines and even eclipsing other major news like the Pinelli case investigation, as reporters flocked to the story of drugs infiltrating the entertainment world. Chiari's trial proceeded in 1971, where he maintained his innocence on the trafficking charges, denying any role in distribution and attributing his possession to occasional personal use influenced by social pressures in his circle. acquitted him of the more serious spaccio (trafficking) accusations due to insufficient of involvement in the , but convicted him on the lesser charge of detenzione for personal use. He received a lenient , avoiding further incarceration and allowing him to resume activities, though the proceedings amplified public scrutiny on his private life. In 1984, Chiari gave an interview to La Domenica del Corriere in which he admitted to having used sporadically for about 40 years, influenced by his social circle, but denied being an addict or trafficker. The confession led to new accusations of drug-related offenses, but the case was ultimately dismissed due to lack of evidence.

Career Impact and Final Projects

Following his 1970 arrest for drug possession, Walter Chiari experienced a profound professional downturn, marked by effective from the Italian film industry and from major television networks like , which curtailed his access to leading roles and high-profile broadcasts. This shift confined him largely to secondary projects and regional theater, reflecting a broader exclusion from the mainstream entertainment sector that had previously propelled his stardom. In the 1970s and , Chiari pivoted back to theater as a primary outlet for revival, staging successful productions such as Io con te, Tu con me (1972–1973) alongside and Hai mai provato nell'acqua calda? (1978–1979), which drew strong audiences despite his diminished visibility. He also revived earlier hits like Il gufo e la gattina and La strana coppia with Renato Rascel, leveraging influences from his 1966 collaboration to sustain live performances in formats, including Gli amici (1986) at Teatro Storchi in and Finale di partita (1986). These stage efforts, often in regional venues, highlighted his improvisational comic talents but operated on a smaller scale than his pre-1970 revues. Television opportunities dwindled to minor and local programs, such as hosting Walter Chiari Show (1973) and A mezzanotte va... (1977–1978) on Tele Alto Milanese, alongside guest roles in Storia di un altro italiano (1986) and I promessi sposi (1988) as Tonio. Film appearances were sporadic and low-budget, including La banca di Monate (1975) and Cinque furbastri e un furbacchione (1976), before a late-career resurgence with Romance (1986), directed by , where he portrayed a estranged father grappling with family reconciliation; for this role, Chiari earned the Pasinetti Award for at the 43rd Venice International Film Festival and the Ciak d'oro. His final film, Tracce di vita amorosa (1990) under Peter Del Monte, offered a poignant capstone, emphasizing introspective themes amid his ongoing marginalization. Amid these endeavors, Chiari faced mounting financial hardships, resorting to cabaret-style acts and regional tours to make ends meet, a stark contrast to his earlier prosperity and contributing to a sense of isolation in his later years. By the early , these struggles underscored the lasting repercussions of his professional , though his theatrical preserved elements of his comedic legacy until his death in 1991.

Death and Legacy

Illness and Passing

In the closing years of his career, Walter Chiari faced mounting stress from professional setbacks, which compounded his existing health vulnerabilities. By late 1991, his cardiac condition had worsened; on December 19, he experienced a mild heart but initially appeared to stabilize following medical attention. Tragically, in the early hours of December 20, 1991, Chiari suffered a fatal heart attack at his residence in , where he was discovered seated in an armchair, glasses on, in front of the television. He was 67 years old, and the sudden nature of the event stunned those close to him. The autopsy later confirmed as the cause of death. These heart issues were exacerbated by a lifetime of excesses, including documented use that had led to legal troubles in the . services were held on December 23, 1991, in , drawing a large gathering of family, friends, and admirers to pay respects; Italian President issued a statement honoring Chiari's "brillante personalità" (brilliant personality). Chiari was interred at the , his gravestone inscribed with the wry epitaph he once suggested to director : "Amici, non piangete, è soltanto sonno arretrato" (Friends, don't cry, it's only overdue sleep).

Cultural Influence and Recognition

Walter Chiari played a pivotal role in the development of , the satirical comedy genre that emerged in cinema, where he frequently portrayed suave yet flawed characters reflecting societal shifts and the economic boom of the 1950s and 1960s. His performances in films directed by masters like and helped define the genre's blend of humor, social critique, and elegance, influencing subsequent generations of comedians who carried forward its witty examination of middle-class hypocrisies into the . Chiari's charismatic screen presence and improvisational style set a template for actors navigating the transition from theater to film, ensuring the genre's enduring appeal in cultural output. During his lifetime, Chiari received notable recognition for his early work, including a Nastro d'Argento award for best debut performance in the 1947 film Vanità, marking his breakthrough as a comedic talent. While theater-specific honors were scarce, his stage revues and Broadway stint in The Gay Life (1961) earned critical acclaim for his versatile , contributing to his reputation as a multifaceted entertainer. Posthumously, retrospective honors have highlighted his contributions, such as the 2012 Rai 1 miniseries Walter Chiari - Fino all'ultima risata, a biographical drama that dramatized his career highs and personal struggles, drawing significant viewership and renewing interest in his legacy. Chiari's enduring influence is also preserved through biographical works and family efforts, including the 2024 book 100% Walter: Chiari. Biografia di un genio irregolare, co-authored by his son Simone Annicchiarico and Michele Sancisi, released to coincide with the centenary of his birth and offering intimate insights into his artistic impact. Simone, an and in his own right, has actively championed his father's memory by participating in archival discussions and productions that revive Chiari's theatrical sketches, ensuring that his innovative approach to revue comedy continues to inspire contemporary Italian performers. These efforts underscore Chiari's lasting role as a bridge between Italy's post-war entertainment renaissance and modern comedic traditions.

Works and Media

Selected Film Roles

Walter Chiari's film career, spanning from 1947 to 1986, encompassed over 100 credits, predominantly in comedies where his debonair charm and timing shone, alongside select productions and dramatic turns that showcased his versatility. His roles often blended humor with romantic intrigue, reflecting influences from his background, though he avoided through occasional serious performances. Chiari debuted in the Italian drama Vanità (1947), directed by Giorgio Pastina, playing the lead role of Enrico Scotti, a young man entangled in post-war social dynamics; the film marked his entry into cinema as a charismatic supporting player, and the role earned him the Nastro d'Argento for Best New Actor. In Totò Tours Italy (1948), directed by Mario Mattòli, he portrayed Bruno opposite the legendary comedian Totò (Antonio de Curtis), contributing to the film's success as a satirical road comedy that highlighted Chiari's emerging comedic flair and earned strong domestic box office. A breakthrough came with Bellissima (1951), Luchino Visconti's neorealist drama, where Chiari played Alberto, the opportunistic suitor to Anna Magnani's aspiring ; his cynical yet sympathetic performance was praised for adding emotional depth to the ensemble, with critics noting his natural chemistry with Magnani. Chiari's international breakthrough arrived in The Little Hut (1957), Mark Robson's Hollywood adaptation of the play, where he starred as Mario, the shipwrecked Italian opposite and ; the romantic farce emphasized his suave playboy persona, though the film garnered mixed critical reception for its lightweight tone despite solid . The following year, in Otto Preminger's Bonjour Tristesse (1958), based on Françoise Sagan's novel, Chiari embodied the bohemian artist Pablo, romancing Jean Seberg's character alongside and ; his role added continental allure to the psychological drama, which was lauded for its stylish direction but critiqued for uneven pacing. In the 1960s, Chiari balanced comedies and drama, starring as the bumbling husband in Dino Risi's Il giovedì (1964), opposite , in a about marital mishaps that was well-received for its sharp wit and Chiari's relatable humor. His most acclaimed dramatic role was Mr. Silence in ' Chimes at Midnight (1966), a Shakespearean adaptation featuring Welles as Falstaff; Chiari's subtle portrayal of the loyal but timid follower contributed to the film's enduring praise for its innovative staging and ensemble dynamics, earning a 94% approval on . That same year, he led They're a Weird Mob (1966), Michael Powell's Australian comedy about an Italian immigrant, co-starring Clare Dunne, which was a commercial hit for its affectionate cultural satire and Chiari's charismatic lead. Chiari joined the multinational ensemble of Monte Carlo or Bust! (1969), directed by , playing Mauro in the road-rally comedy alongside and ; the film's adventurous spirit and Chiari's roguish energy made it a fun, if formulaic, international success. Shifting to drama, he appeared in The Valachi Papers (1972), Terence Young's Mafia epic, as the informant Dominick Petrilli opposite ; based on Peter Maas's book, the film was noted for its gritty authenticity, with Chiari's role providing tense supporting menace. In the 1970s, Chiari returned to comedies, leading Amore mio non farmi male (1974), directed by Vittorio Sindoni, as a jealous husband opposite in a that drew laughs for its exaggerated situations and Chiari's exasperated delivery. He followed with Zig-Zag (1975), directed by László Szabó, portraying the hapless , a , alongside and in the French comedy-drama about entertainers and dreamers. Later entries included Ridendo e scherzando (1978), where he played Giorgio in a nostalgic revue-style directed by Marco Aleandri, evoking his roots with mixed but fond critical nods. Chiari's final significant screen role was in Romance (1986), directed by Giuseppe Bertolucci, as the fatherly Giulio opposite Pacula in a poignant family drama; the film received positive reviews for its emotional resonance, marking a reflective close to his career.

Theater Productions and Music

Walter Chiari gained prominence in theater through his roles in musical comedies and revues during the and , often collaborating with librettists Garinei and Sandro Giovannini. One of his breakthrough performances was in the musical Buonanotte Bettina, which premiered on November 14, 1956, at the Teatro Alfieri in , where he starred alongside Delia Scala in a production that was a major success across . The show featured music by composer Gorni Kramer, with Chiari delivering comedic songs and sketches that highlighted his singing and improvisational skills. In 1961, Chiari made his Broadway debut in the musical The Gay Life, an adaptation of Arthur Schnitzler's works, where he portrayed the lead role of Anatol opposite at the Shubert Theatre in . The production opened on November 18, 1961, and ran for 113 performances until February 24, 1962, showcasing Chiari's charm in romantic duets and lighthearted numbers with music by and lyrics by . This role marked a significant international milestone, blending his Italian revue style with American musical theater traditions. Later, in 1966, Chiari appeared in the Italian adaptation of Neil Simon's La strana coppia (The Odd Couple), co-starring with Renato Rascel as one of the mismatched roommates, directed by E. Bruzzo and produced by Garinei and Giovannini; the comedy premiered at the Teatro Politeama in and toured successfully throughout . Chiari's musical contributions extended to recordings tied to his stage work, particularly in the and , where he sang original songs from revues and musicals. A highlight was Broadway cast album for The Gay Life, released in 1961 on , featuring Chiari's vocals on tracks like "Something You Never Had Before" and "Who Can? You Can!" alongside and . He also contributed to Italian soundtracks, including comedic monologues and songs from Garinei and Giovannini productions, often collaborating with on lighthearted, satirical numbers that captured the era's postwar optimism. These efforts underscored Chiari's versatility as a performer who bridged roots with structured musical theater.

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