Barbara D’Urso, a prominent figure in Italian television, is on the verge of making a significant return to the small screen after nearly two years away. Following her departure from Mediaset, where she spent two decades, the 68-year-old host is reportedly in talks with Rai to potentially lead a weekday afternoon program, reminiscent of her previous show, Pomeriggio 5. This news comes amidst a challenging period for Rai, which has been grappling with declining viewership and the cancellation of popular programs, including Carlo Conti’s Ne vedremo delle belle.
The speculation around D’Urso’s return has been fueled by various reports, particularly from La Repubblica, indicating that Rai sees her as a "luxury card"—a strategic asset capable of revitalizing its afternoon programming. Despite the interest from Rai, there are significant political hurdles to navigate, particularly a presumed veto from Forza Italia, which could complicate her transition to the state broadcaster.
According to sources, the political landscape is somewhat fraught, with concerns that D’Urso’s return could upset the delicate balance within the media landscape, particularly regarding Pier Silvio Berlusconi, the CEO of Mediaset and son of former Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi. The idea of D’Urso hosting a major program in prime time has been shelved due to these political sensitivities, prompting discussions of a more gradual reintroduction, possibly through a midweek afternoon slot.
Barbara D’Urso's exit from Mediaset was abrupt; she was let go from her position on Pomeriggio 5 in December 2023, which led her to take a break from television. Her absence from the screen has been notable, especially as she has not received any substantial offers from other networks since then. Reports from Dagospia suggest that Berlusconi has effectively blocked her from returning to the airwaves, creating a challenging environment for D’Urso’s career.
Despite these obstacles, the idea of bringing D’Urso back to Rai has gained traction, especially as the network seeks to recover from its declining ratings. The current programming strategy has seen Rai exploring various formats, and D’Urso’s experience and appeal across multiple generations make her an attractive candidate. The network is reportedly considering introducing her in a "soft" manner, without the fanfare typically associated with her previous roles.
Interestingly, there have been whispers about D’Urso potentially taking over the Sunday afternoon show Domenica In, hosted by Mara Venier. However, it appears that Venier is expected to remain in her role for at least another year, leaving D’Urso’s exact position within Rai still uncertain. This ongoing speculation highlights the competitive nature of Italian television, where established hosts vie for coveted slots.
As Rai prepares for a summer lineup that includes Pino Insegno hosting Reazione a Catena starting June 8, 2025, the network is also considering how to best utilize D’Urso’s talents. Her return could not only bolster afternoon viewership but also provide a fresh perspective in a time of need. The potential for her to host a program similar to Pomeriggio 5 remains a strong possibility, although the details are still being ironed out.
On a personal note, May 7 marks a significant day for D’Urso, as she celebrates her 68th birthday. In a touching gesture, she took to social media to acknowledge her ex-partner, Mauro Berardi, who shares the same birthday. D’Urso’s post reflected on their 11-year relationship, showcasing her ability to maintain a positive public image even amidst career uncertainties.
As the discussions between D’Urso and Rai continue, it remains to be seen how the political landscape will influence her return. The network appears committed to bringing her back, recognizing the potential impact she could have on their ratings. For now, fans of D’Urso will have to wait for official confirmation of her new role, but the anticipation surrounding her return to television is palpable.
In conclusion, Barbara D’Urso’s potential move to Rai symbolizes more than just a career comeback; it reflects the shifting dynamics of Italian television and the ongoing interplay between media and politics. As Rai works to navigate these complexities, D’Urso’s return could mark a turning point for the network as it seeks to reclaim its audience.
