Bianca Panconi shines as Selvaggia in the new TV series Costanza, captivating audiences with her talent and compelling backstory. The show, which premiered on Rai 1 on March 30, 2025, features Panconi as the historical figure Selvaggia di Staufen, the illegitimate daughter of Emperor Frederick II of Swabia. This role marks a significant milestone in Panconi's burgeoning acting career.
Born in Florence on January 20, 2000, Bianca Panconi has quickly become one of Italy's promising young actresses. Her passion for acting blossomed in her early years, leading her to prestigious institutions in her hometown, such as the Max Ballet Academy and the Florence Movie Association. She made her film debut in 2020 with the movie Un cielo stellato sopra il ghetto di Roma, where her sensitivity and stage presence were immediately recognized.
Panconi's television career took off with notable roles in popular series like La vita promessa 2 and the medical drama DOC – Nelle tue mani, alongside well-known Italian actor Luca Argentero. However, it was her portrayal of Virginia Corvara in the 2021 series Cuori that truly elevated her profile, earning her greater visibility in the industry.
In 2024, Panconi was cast as Melody in the eighth season of Che Dio ci aiuti, a role previously held by Ginevra Francesconi. Her fresh and engaging performance has already won over many viewers. Alongside her television endeavors, she continues to enrich her artistic repertoire with significant cinematic experiences, such as her role in Il ritorno di Casanova in 2022, directed by Gabriele Salvatores, where she starred alongside Italian cinema icons Toni Servillo and Fabrizio Bentivoglio.
In Costanza, the character Selvaggia di Staufen is portrayed as a noblewoman with striking red hair, embodying courage and determination. The series follows Costanza, a contemporary paleopathologist, as she uncovers Selvaggia's true story. The narrative intertwines the lives of these two women, separated by centuries yet connected through their struggles and aspirations.
The show is directed by Fabrizio Costa and adapted from Alessia Gazzola's novel Questione di Costanza. It features a talented cast, including Miriam Dalmazio as Costanza, Marco Rossetti as Marco, and Lorenzo Cervasio as Ludovico. The series is structured into four episodes, with the first two airing on the premiere date, March 30, 2025, followed by subsequent episodes on March 31, April 6, and April 13, 2025.
As the plot unfolds, viewers see Costanza grappling with her responsibilities as a single mother while navigating the complexities of her professional life. The series also hints at a romantic entanglement, as Costanza discovers that Marco's girlfriend, Federica, is unaware of the existence of their child, leading to tension and drama.
In the third episode, Toni advises Costanza to clarify her situation with both Marco and Ludovico, while Marco prepares to meet Flora, adding layers to the narrative. Meanwhile, Diana and Anselmo, played by Caterina Shukha and Davide Iacopini respectively, uncover potential fathers for Biancofiore, Selvaggia's daughter, further complicating the storyline.
Despite her rising fame, Bianca Panconi maintains a low profile regarding her personal life, leaving fans curious about her relationships. However, she actively engages with her audience on Instagram, sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses, events, and everyday moments, providing a unique insight into the life of a young actress on the rise.
As the series progresses, viewers can expect a blend of romance, historical intrigue, and personal growth, all wrapped in a modern narrative that resonates with contemporary audiences. The intertwining tales of Costanza and Selvaggia promise to captivate viewers, offering a rich tapestry of history and emotion.
With the premiere of Costanza, the Rai network enriches its programming with a series that not only entertains but also invites reflection on the struggles of women across different eras. The show is poised to leave a significant mark on the Italian television landscape, thanks to its compelling storytelling and strong performances.
For those unable to catch the episodes live, all eight episodes of Costanza will be available for streaming on RaiPlay, ensuring that the story reaches a wider audience. Viewers can look forward to an engaging exploration of the past and present, as well as the challenges faced by women in both historical and contemporary settings.
As the story of Costanza unfolds, audiences will undoubtedly be drawn into the emotional depths of the characters, particularly the courageous Selvaggia, whose life story is brought to life through Panconi's powerful performance. This series not only showcases the talents of its cast but also highlights the importance of storytelling that bridges generations and connects viewers to the rich tapestry of history.
