Nanni Moretti, the acclaimed Italian director and actor, is currently recovering in intensive care after suffering a myocardial infarction on April 2, 2025. The 71-year-old filmmaker was admitted to the San Camillo hospital in Rome after experiencing severe chest pain, which he recognized as a serious health issue.
Upon arriving at the emergency room in the late afternoon, Moretti was promptly treated by a team led by cardiologist Marco Stefano Nazzaro. The intervention lasted over an hour and a half, during which an angioplasty was performed to address the coronary blockage that had caused the heart attack. Hospital sources reported that the procedure was successful, and Moretti's myocardial damage was minimal.
As of April 3, 2025, Moretti's condition is stable, and he is described as being in good spirits. Domenico Gabrielli, the director of the UOC Cardiologica at San Camillo, stated, "His progress is regular and his conditions are excellent. We are confident that in a few days he will be discharged." This optimistic outlook comes after a night in intensive care, where it was noted that his condition did not worsen.
Moretti's quick recognition of his symptoms likely saved his life, according to Francesco Saia, president of the Italian Society of Interventional Cardiology (GISE). Saia emphasized the importance of time in treating acute heart attacks, stating, "In acute heart attack treatment, time is critical—every minute that passes worsens the situation." He praised Moretti for promptly identifying the symptoms, which included deep pain in the chest, back, shoulders, neck, and arms, and seeking immediate medical attention.
This isn't the first health scare for Moretti. He suffered a heart attack in October 2024 while in Naples, which required angioplasty as well. On that occasion, he reassured his fans through a video message, saying, "I’m sorry not to be there with you, but I’m doing well. I’ll get better and return soon." He has also battled Hodgkin's lymphoma in the early 1990s and another unspecified tumor revealed in 2017.
Moretti was scheduled to attend the premiere of the film "L'attachement" at the Sacher cinema on the same day he was hospitalized. He had previously announced he was not feeling well and would not be able to attend the event, which was part of the French Cinema Festival. His absence was felt deeply, especially by actress Valeria Bruni Tedeschi, who was also involved in the film.
In light of his health issues, fans have taken to social media to express their support and well-wishes. Many have shared quotes from his films, with comments like, "Dai Nanni non fare scherzi" (Come on Nanni, don’t joke around) and "Dio ti prego non prenderti Nanni Moretti" (God, please don’t take Nanni Moretti). The outpouring of affection highlights the significant impact Moretti has had on Italian cinema and culture over his decades-long career.
Moretti, born on August 19, 1953, in Brunico, is widely regarded as one of Italy's most important filmmakers. He made his directorial debut in 1976 with "Io sono un autarchico" and has since produced a rich body of work that often reflects the political and social landscape of Italy. His films, such as "La messa è finita" and "Palombella rossa," have garnered numerous accolades, including the prestigious Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival in 2001 for "La stanza del figlio."
As Moretti continues to recover, the medical community is reminded of the critical importance of recognizing heart attack symptoms and the need for immediate action. The GISE notes that approximately 120,000 acute heart attacks occur annually in Italy, with an 11% mortality rate. Quick response and effective treatment can significantly reduce these numbers.
In the days leading up to his heart attack, Moretti had appeared at the Teatro Petruzzelli in Bari, where he conducted a masterclass after a screening of his classic film "Ecce Bombo" (1978). He was seen as relaxed and in good spirits, making the news of his sudden hospitalization even more shocking for fans and colleagues alike.
As the film community and fans await further updates on his health, there is a collective hope for a swift recovery. Moretti's contributions to cinema and his unique voice in storytelling have left an indelible mark, and many are eager to see him return to the screen and the public eye.
