A Cultural Colossus Bids Farewell
Italy mourns the loss of television giant Pippo Baudo, who passed away at age 89 in Rome on August 16, 2025. A towering presence on RAI for over six decades, Baudo shaped Italian TV history with iconic variety shows and a record thirteen Sanremo Music Festival appearances.
Fondly dubbed “Superpippo”, his legacy extends beyond entertainment; he was an institution who launched countless stars and became synonymous with innovation in Italian broadcasting.
From Law Student to TV Legend
Born Giuseppe Vittorio Raimondo Baudo in Sicily on June 7, 1936, he initially studied law at the University of Catania—but his passion for entertainment took him in a different direction. He rose to fame in the early 1960s through variety shows like Settevoci, Domenica In, Fantastico, and more. His influence extended behind the scenes too; he served as art director and president of the Teatro Stabile di Catania between 2000–2007.
Sanremo Legend & Talent Maker
Baudo holds the record for hosting the Sanremo Festival thirteen times between 1968 and 2008, including directing seven of those editions—cementing his status as the face of Italy’s most beloved music contest.
His shows launched or revived the careers of stars like Lorella Cuccarini, Laura Pausini, Andrea Bocelli, and many others, earning him a cherished place in Italian cultural memory.
Honours & Final Public Moments
Bestowed with the title of Cavaliere di Gran Croce in 2021 by President Mattarella, Baudo commanded respect both on and off the screen.
His final public appearance occurred in 2023, commemorating the 70th anniversary of RAI—after which he embraced a life away from the spotlight.
His Passing Marks the End of an Era
Confirmed by longtime lawyer Giorgio Assumma, the news struck a chord across Italy, especially among those who grew up watching him on TV. Baudo was more than a host—he was the very heartbeat of Italian television.
He leaves behind a vast legacy: beloved shows, cultural milestones, and a nation’s collective memory. His passing signals the close of a vital chapter in entertainment history.
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