Barbara Lombardo recently made an emotional appearance on the Italian television show Verissimo, hosted by Silvia Toffanin, where she paid tribute to her late husband, Totò Schillaci, who passed away at the age of 59 last September due to colon cancer. During her visit on February 9, 2025, Lombardo fondly recalled their love story, sharing both the cherished memories and the challenges they faced together.
Lombardo, born in Palermo in 1975, first met Schillaci years ago, but their relationship blossomed later after both had experienced other relationships. "We met when we were young, but we lost contact. We reconnected as singles, and it was clear we were meant for each other," she explained. This reconnection led to their marriage on June 18, 2012, at the enchanting Villa Niscemi, surrounded by family and friends.
The couple created a beautiful blended family. Lombardo embraced Schillaci's three children from previous relationships—Jessica, Mattia, and Nicole—as her own, and Schillaci also developed a close relationship with Lombardo's son, Alberto. Together, they managed the Louis Ribolla sports center, established by Schillaci after his retirement, to support children from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Throughout their time together, they faced numerous joys and struggles, including Schillaci's battle with cancer, which began with his diagnosis after undergoing a colonoscopy. Lombardo described the emotional turmoil of those years, highlighting Schillaci's resilience and their unwavering support for each other. "He never wanted to leave me alone. This bond kept us strong even through the toughest times," she stated.
Reflecting on the love they shared, Lombardo expressed pride: "Totò was loved by everyone. I was so proud of him not just as a footballer but also as such a humble and simple man. He will always remain in the hearts of many.” Their love not only flourished during the best moments but also proved to be deeply rooted during challenging times, including his health struggles.
Schillaci's condition worsened significantly over time. Lombardo recounted how they made the decision to participate together on the reality show Pechino Express as it afforded them the opportunity to embrace life and enjoy what remained of their time together. Lombardo recalled, "Despite everything, we wanted to make great memories. This adventure was about seizing every moment we had."
Tragically, following his hospitalizations and declining health, Schillaci passed away on September 18, 2024, after enduring multiple rounds of therapy and complications. Lombardo ensured to be at his side throughout this painful experience. She touched on how he was worried about leaving her alone, stating, "His heart didn’t want to fade away because of our children and me. I want to honor his memory and carry forward the love he gave me every day."
During her emotional interview, Lombardo shared details of their final moments and how he continued to express love and optimism, even as his health deteriorated. "He made me feel loved every day and never took me for granted. Those memories will stay with me forever," she reflected, trying to process her grief.
The segment concluded with Lombardo reminding viewers of Schillaci's legacy—not just as 'The Gladiator', the nickname he earned during his illustrious football career, particularly during the 1990 World Cup—but as a wonderful man whose love impacted many lives. "He wasn’t just a champion on the field but also the father and husband who loved deeply. His spirit remains alive through our family and memories."
Barbara Lombardo’s moving tribute highlights how love can endure even the bleakest of times and emphasizes the importance of cherishing every moment with those we hold dear. While she mourns the loss of her husband, she also celebrates their beautiful life together, viewing those moments as precious and everlasting.
Although Totò Schillaci is no longer with them, his story, his passion for football, and his deep love for Barbara will linger on as reminders of their extraordinary bond and the legacy of love they built together.