After years of seeking love through trials and tribulations on the popular dating show Uomini e Donne, Barbara De Santi has seemingly found her long-awaited happy ending alongside Ruggiero D'Andrea. The couple's decision to leave the show together has sparked curiosity among fans: Are they still together, or has their romance already floundered?
Barbara took to social media to clarify their relationship status, posting a heartfelt message about Ruggiero on her Instagram account. "Dedicato a te il mio unico pensiero... Sei tutto ciò per me," she wrote, expressing her deep feelings through the metaphor of food, describing him as "the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, the strength and solidity of eggplant, the flavor of ricotta cheese, and the freshness of basil." This charming tribute undoubtedly indicates the affection Barbara has for Ruggiero.
During the recent episode of Uomini e Donne aired on March 3, 2025, hosts and fans alike were treated to the evolution of Barbara and Ruggiero’s relationship on screen. When Ruggiero, who previously participated on the show, returned, he shared his admiration for Barbara, highlighting her beauty and captivating personality as key factors for wanting to pursue her. His thoughtful approach included sending her voice messages and texts, demonstrating his commitment even within the competitive setting of the show.
Following their initial dinner date, things began to heat up. Barbara recounted her surprise at Ruggiero’s conversational skills, noting he deftly handled all her questions without faltering, even on topics where she might have expected hesitation. "Era molto preparato a ogni domanda che gli facevo... L’interrogazione è andata bene, quindi?" she joked, showcasing her playful side. Their chemistry, underscored by light-hearted banter and genuine affection, paved the way for what Barbara described as their first passionate kiss, solidifying their mutual attraction.
Fast forward to now, Barbara and Ruggiero are entertaining the idea of nurturing their relationship beyond the flickering studio lights of the show. Ruggiero, who is 56 years old and boasts a substantial background in the restaurant industry, is also the father of three daughters. This parenting aspect adds complexity to their budding relationship, as Barbara endeavors to build trust and rapport not only with Ruggiero but also with his children. Fans of the show can’t help but root for her success.
According to gossip columns and insights from Uomini e Donne expert Lorenzo Pugnaloni, the couple has made plans to spend weekends together, embarking on this new chapter with hopes of forging a stable life. This commitment suggests they are working diligently to strengthen their bond amid the typical highs and lows of romantic relationships.
Listeners and spectators have been eagerly following Barbara’s narrative since she first appeared on Uomini e Donne. Her quest throughout the seasons has been one of resilience, and her pairing with Ruggiero seems like the new beginning she has long envisioned. Sources indicate this relationship is grounded on mutual respect and affection, contrasting previous experiences where Barbara faced disappointments from her former partners.
While the initial spark ignited on television has now moved to private life, the excitement surrounding Barbara and Ruggiero continues to captivate viewers. Their transition from television personalities to partners raises questions about how they will navigate the challenges of maintaining both public personas and personal lives. Can love endure the glare of public attention, or will it succumb to the pressures inherent to such visibility?
Nonetheless, Barbara’s ardent declaration of devotion through culinary metaphors hints at her commitment to nurturing their relationship. Only time will tell how their story will develop, but one thing is certain: Barbara De Santi may finally have found the emotional fulfillment she has sought since entering the world of Uomini e Donne.
With every affectionate gesture and shared moment, Barbara and Ruggiero are redefining what it means to find love, proving it's possible, even after enduring the challenges of public scrutiny. Their relationship is blossoming, and fans eager for their next chapter can only hope for the best as they embrace this fresh start together.