On February 26, 2025, the beloved Italian actress Eleonora Giorgi received distressing attention during the live broadcast of the talk show Forum, where host Barbara Palombelli announced, "Eleonora ci sta per salutare" (Eleonora is about to say goodbye). The heart-wrenching statement signaled the gravity of Giorgi's deteriorated health as she continues to fight terminal cancer.
The announcement came with Paolo Ciavarro, Giorgi's son, alongside Palombelli, who expressed her support for both Giorgi and her family during this challenging time. "Accanto a me ho Paolo Ciavarro e voglio dargli un abbraccio. Eleonora ci sta per salutare. E noi apprezziamo molto che oggi Paolo ha lasciato la mamma in ottima compagnia per stare con noi qui in diretta" (Next to me is Paolo Ciavarro, and I want to give him a hug. Eleonora is about to say farewell. We appreciate very much today Paolo has left his mother well taken care of to be with us live), Palombelli said, visibly moved by the situation.
Giorgi, who has bravely fought against pancreatic cancer for about two years, is currently hospitalized at a clinic in Rome for pain management therapy. Her health has significantly worsened, and she openly shared the difficult realities she faces. Just recently, she revealed to the Corriere della Sera how her battle has taken both a physical and emotional toll. "Mi tengono in vita non perché ci sia futuro, ma perché tutto succeda il più tardi possibile. Ogni giorno è un regalo" (They keep me alive not because there is hope for the future, but to delay the inevitable as long as possible. Every day is a gift). These poignant words reflect Giorgi's acceptance of her situation amid prolonged physical agony.
Previously, Giorgi disclosed her struggles with the physical pain of her illness, stating, "Mi sono ritrovata da sola in casa, di notte, a urlare, in preda ai dolori" (I found myself alone at home, at night, screaming in pain). Her honesty about not being able to walk more than ten steps resonates with many, as she willingly shares her fight for life amid immense suffering.
During her announcement on Forum, Palombelli had included thoughtful remarks about Giorgi's impact not just on her family, but on the hearts of the whole country. The public has rallied around the actress, expressing deep empathy and love for her courage throughout her difficult battle, and acknowledging how she has been part of their lives since she became famous at age twenty.
Giorgi's reflections on mortality have also taken on different dimensions. "La vita a volte è crudele. Trovarsi nella consapevolezza della morte ti fa analizzare le cose in modo diverso" (Life is sometimes cruel. Finding oneself aware of death makes you analyze things differently), she shared as she contemplates her legacy and her relationships with loved ones.
The announcement has struck many viewers and followers deeply, highlighting the fragility of life and the emotional burdens families often share during such trying times. Support continues to flow from the public, showcasing not just sorrow for Giorgi’s condition but also gratitude for her contributions to Italian cinema and television.
Through her vulnerability, Giorgi has invited others to confront their feelings about life and death, and her legacy remains tied to the love and inspiration she has provided throughout her career.
The sentiment from her son, Paolo, during this heart-wrenching announcement echoed the support of many. They understand the value of being present for one another even as the difficult realities set in. These moments remind us of the human experience—of love, pain, hope, and the weight of goodbyes—all poignantly captured during the latest episode of Forum.