Katia Ricciarelli, the renowned Italian soprano, made headlines on April 13, 2025, during her appearance on the popular RAI show "Domenica In" when she revealed that she once had a romantic flirtation with the legendary actor Alberto Sordi. This surprising admission came during a lively exchange with the show's host, Mara Venier, who expressed her astonishment at Ricciarelli's honesty.
Venier, known for her engaging interviewing style, responded to Ricciarelli's revelation by recalling that the soprano had always denied any romantic involvement with Sordi. "You have always denied it... You always said he sends me roses, roses, roses... roses are one thing, the rest is another. Finally, you said it," Venier remarked, clearly taken aback by the candidness of Ricciarelli's statement.
Ricciarelli, who is now 79 years old and has previously been married to television host Pippo Baudo, defended her past comments, asserting, "There is nothing wrong with saying that I had a flirt..." This statement suggests that Ricciarelli is comfortable discussing her past relationships, a topic she has often kept private.
The conversation took an unexpected turn when Venier pressed further, asking, "Was there sex?" To this, Ricciarelli responded with a humorous twist, saying, "What is sex? I didn't see sex." This playful exchange not only showcased Ricciarelli's witty personality but also highlighted her reluctance to delve deeper into the intimate details of her past romance.
Interestingly, this isn't the first time Ricciarelli has mentioned her flirtation with Sordi. Back in 2021, during her time on the reality show "Grande Fratello Vip," she had hinted at their romantic connection, stating, "We had a flirt," and reminiscing about how Sordi, a great lover of opera, had sent her 100 red roses. This earlier revelation adds depth to her recent comments, suggesting that the flirtation has been a part of her narrative for some time.
During her appearance on "Domenica In," Ricciarelli also took the opportunity to reflect on her illustrious career and personal life, captivating the audience with stories from her past. The soprano even treated viewers to a performance of the beloved Neapolitan song "O' sole mio," accompanied by tenor Luca Minelli. This musical interlude served as a reminder of her enduring talent and passion for the arts, even as she shares personal anecdotes.
The interaction between Ricciarelli and Venier illustrates a broader cultural phenomenon in Italy, where public figures often navigate their private lives under the scrutiny of media and public interest. Ricciarelli's willingness to discuss her past with Sordi may resonate with fans who appreciate transparency and authenticity in celebrity narratives.
As the conversation unfolded, it became clear that Ricciarelli's relationship with Sordi, while kept under wraps for many years, was a significant chapter in her life. The light-hearted banter between Ricciarelli and Venier not only entertained viewers but also highlighted the complexities of love and relationships in the public eye.
In today's media landscape, where personal revelations can make or break a public figure's reputation, Ricciarelli's admission stands out as a moment of vulnerability and courage. It invites fans to see her not just as a celebrated artist but as a person with her own romantic history and experiences.
As the episode concluded, viewers were left with a sense of admiration for Ricciarelli's talent, charisma, and the intriguing stories that come with a life lived in the spotlight. Whether through her powerful performances or her candid discussions about her past, Ricciarelli continues to captivate audiences across generations.
Ultimately, her revelation about Sordi adds another layer to her already rich tapestry of experiences, reminding us that even the most glamorous lives are filled with moments of love, laughter, and a touch of mystery.
