Cristina D’Avena, the iconic voice behind many beloved animated series, is returning to the spotlight this December when she hosts Zecchino D’Oro – La magia della Vigilia on December 24, 2024, at 14:10 on Rai 1. This date marks not only her return to the venue where her career began but also serves as a celebration of her impressive legacy.
Starting her career at just three years old, D’Avena made her debut at Lo Zecchino D’Oro in 1968 with the song “Il valzer del moscerino,” where she secured third place. Over the years, she captured the hearts of Italian children, becoming one of the most distinguished voices of animated series throughout the 1980s and beyond. The singer's contributions extend beyond music; she has hosted various television programs such as Bim bum bam and Cantiamo con Cristina, and even appeared at the prestigious Festival di Sanremo.
D’Avena's career path has long been intertwined with her personal choices. She has maintained a significant level of privacy surrounding her personal life. While she has been with her partner, Massimo Perna, for many years, their relationship has been characterized by humorous reluctance to formalize their commitment. Commenting on the topic of marriage, she quipped, "Per il momento ho declinato perché non riusciamo mai a metterci d'accordo. Però mi piacerebbe molto, chissà, spero presto.”
Despite her professional achievements, D’Avena often reflects on the personal sacrifices made for her career. She has expressed regret about not having children, candidly sharing her thoughts on the biological constraints women face. "Mi è dispiaciuto non avere figli. Noi donne abbiamo un orologio biologico che ad un certo punto si ferma. Quando mi sono resa conto che ero troppo grande, non ci ho più provato,” she stated, conveying her sense of loss and missed opportunity.
Yet, D’Avena finds great joy and fulfillment from her relationship with her young fans, who affectionately approach her at events, drawn to her warmth and joyful presence. "Mi sento la mamma di tutti i bambini. Sono attratti dal mio sorriso, vengono da me, mi abbracciano e mi baciano," she says, illuminating her connection to the next generation and the happiness they bring her.
Staying connected with her audience has been integral to her identity, especially during her interactions with the media and public figures. Reflecting on her past collaborations, she fondly remembers the role Silvio Berlusconi played early on, stating: "Con me Berlusconi è stato sempre un grande signore, una persona adorabile, sempre presente e generosa." She acknowledges his influence on helping her establish her public persona, allowing her to move from being just a voice to being front and center on television.
Cristina D’Avena's upcoming appearance on Lo Zecchino D’Oro is more than just another television performance; it is a reunion with her roots, marking nearly six decades of heartfelt contributions to Italian pop culture. She embodies nostalgia, connecting generations through her songs and stories, creating timeless memories for those who grew up with her music.
Today, she continues to inspire not just through her music but through the insights she shares about life, love, and the choices we make along the way. D’Avena remains a beloved figure, both for her contributions to entertainment and for her genuine relativity to the experiences of her audience—demonstrated through her honest reflections on personal life choices and the weight of parental aspirations.
