On Wednesday, May 7, 2025, Ilze Scamparini's appearance on Jornal Nacional stirred up significant buzz on social media, not just because it marked the first day of the conclave to elect a new pope, but also due to her unexpected location. Traditionally known for her live reports from the rooftops of Rome, Scamparini was instead reporting from the iconic Praça São Pedro, the main square of the Vatican, alongside her colleague, William Bonner.
Scamparini has long been a beloved figure on Brazilian television, particularly for her distinctive backdrop of the Basilica of São Pedro, which has become a signature element of her reporting. However, her departure from her usual perch seemed to unsettle some viewers, as they noted a visible discomfort in the journalist during the broadcast.
While Bonner displayed enthusiasm throughout the segment, Scamparini maintained a more reserved demeanor. Observers on social media were quick to comment on this apparent tension. One user on X (formerly Twitter) remarked, "Ilze Scamparini zero sympathy wanting distance and almost leaving the screen," capturing the sentiment of many who perceived her discomfort.
During the broadcast, Bonner attempted to engage Scamparini physically, placing a hand on her shoulder to express gratitude for her participation. However, she promptly dodged his gesture and concluded her segment with a curt "good night." This interaction did not go unnoticed, with viewers speculating on the nature of their chemistry on screen. "What happened here?" asked one user, echoing the confusion felt by many as the segment unfolded.
Bonner had previously teased Scamparini's appearance on the show during the live broadcast on May 6, stating, "What I know and can say now is that tomorrow, Ilze Scamparini will be here with me; she promised." This playful banter about her "coming down from the roof" was meant to be lighthearted but appeared to backfire, as sources close to the production indicated that Scamparini did not appreciate the joke.
According to a report by O Dia, a source revealed that "Ilze is very reserved, but as a reporter, she loves being in the streets. She understood it as an unnecessary joke." This sentiment was echoed by many viewers who felt that Bonner's attempts to create a friendly atmosphere were overly forced and not well-received.
In a more reflective moment, Scamparini had previously shared her fondness for her rooftop backdrop during an interview with Sabrina Sato in 2023, stating, "I think it’s a wonderful scenario, and of course, the dome of the Basilica is the absolute protagonist." She began using her balcony as a reporting base during the pandemic when it was impractical to navigate the streets of Rome.
As the coverage of the conclave continues, Scamparini's return to the streets and her interaction with Bonner will likely remain a topic of discussion. With the recent death of Pope Francisco on April 21, 2025, and the ensuing media frenzy surrounding the election of his successor, her presence is more critical than ever. Bonner acknowledged this during the segment, noting, "I thank you on behalf of the audience because people ask a lot on social media for you to be here, but I won’t exploit you and demand that you be here every night." Yet, the awkwardness of their interaction left many wondering if the camaraderie they sought was genuinely reciprocated.
Social media reactions have ranged from humorous to critical, with many users expressing concern for Scamparini’s comfort level. One user quipped, "Ilze totally uncomfortable outside her terrace," while another added, "Ilze talking about being pleased to be live on JN, but with the face and tone of someone who was forcibly taken off the roof." These comments reflect a broader sentiment that while viewers appreciate Scamparini's expertise, they also value her comfort and authenticity as a journalist.
As the conclave progresses, it will be intriguing to see how Scamparini adapts to her new surroundings and whether she will return to her familiar rooftop setup, which has become synonymous with her reporting style. For now, her appearance alongside Bonner has certainly made waves, highlighting the complexities of on-screen chemistry and the expectations placed on journalists in high-pressure situations.
In the end, the incident serves as a reminder of the human element in journalism—how personal interactions can shape public perception and the narrative that unfolds in front of the camera. While viewers may have enjoyed the novelty of seeing Scamparini "descend from the roof," it’s clear that her comfort and authenticity are paramount to her audience.
