
Maurizio Costanzo, the renowned Italian journalist, writer, and pioneering TV talk show host, passed away at the age of 84, his press office confirmed on Friday.
Costanzo was widely known for his popular talk show, The Maurizio Costanzo Show, which aired on Silvio Berlusconi’s Mediaset network for years, making him a star and household name in Italy.
He was recognized for his quick wit, sharp commentary, and penetrating interviews.
Costanzo began his career in journalism at the age of 18 with the Roman newspaper Paese Sera and later founded the short-lived tabloid L’Occhio. He was also a radio and TV host, including for the popular Bontà loro show on state broadcaster RAI.
Costanzo was also a screenwriter for several films and the co-writer of the lyrics of the hit song Se Telefonando.
Costanzo’s campaigns were well-known and included one against the mafia that almost took his life in 1993. Despite the Cosa Nostra bomb attack, he doubled down on his fight against organized crime.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni led tributes to the journalist, describing him as an “icon of journalism and TV,” thanking him for bringing culture, charm, and kindness into the homes of Italians.
Costanzo’s passing marks the end of an era in Italian media, where he was a key figure, shaping and influencing the industry for decades. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of journalists, writers, and TV hosts in Italy and beyond.
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