On January 5, 2025, 'Domenica IN' aired its 17th episode, hosted by Mara Venier from the Fabrizio Frizzi studios in Rome. The show, broadcast live on Rai1, featured numerous star-studded guests and heartfelt tributes, most prominently commemorative segments dedicated to the late singer Pino Daniele.
The program kicked off with renowned astrologer Paolo Fox presenting his zodiac forecast for January 2025. The episode included notable appearances by six famous couples: actor Francesco Pannofino with his wife Emanuela, television personality Rosanna Lambertucci with husband Mario, journalist Alan Friedman with wife Gabriella, dancer Simone Di Pasquale with partner Maria, and actress Rosanna Banfi with husband Fabio.
One of the highlights was actress and producer Edwige Fenech, who reflected on her illustrious career and personal life. Music was also front and center as singer Nek captivated the audience with performances of his popular hits like "Laura non c’è" and "Se telefonando." He also announced the upcoming premiere of his new show 'Dalla strada al palco', which he would co-host with Bianca Guaccero starting January 10 on Rai1.
Adding to the musical offerings, Francesco Merola, joined by his wife Marianna Mercurio, paid tribute to the Neapolitan music tradition by performing the classic, "Lacreme napulitane," made famous by his father, the legendary Mario Merola.
Educated discussions were facilitated by journalist Pietro Perone, author of the book "Pino Daniele: Napoli e l’anima della musica, dal Mascalzone latino a Gigiò." He delved deeply, continuing the dialogue around Pino Daniele’s immense legacy as the show took on the unique responsibility of remembering the iconic singer on the 10th anniversary of his passing. Daniele’s work remains deeply entrenched within the cultural fabrics of Italy, particularly Napoli.
Alongside this poignant remembrance, Monsignor Domenico Sorrentino, Bishop of Assisi, featured prominently to discuss his new book, "Carlo Acutis, sulle orme di Francesco e Chiara d’Assisi," dedicatory of the upcoming canonization of Carlo Acutis, also drawing connections to the rich cultural and historical undertones present within Daniele’s music.
The episode was not only entertaining but served as reflective space for viewers, especially fans of Pino Daniele. It allowed them to reconnect with the artist’s spirit through music, stories, and personal testimonies from those whose lives he touched.
This memorable program underscored the significance of honoring Pino Daniele’s contribution to music and culture, serving as both tribute and celebration, reinforcing the enduring power of his work and legacy, creating touchpoints for the fans who miss him dearly.
Viewers could catch highlights and recaps of this special episode on the official RaiPlay website, where all episodes of 'Domenica IN' from the 2024-2025 season are available.