Italian director Nanni Moretti was reported to be in intensive care in stable condition on Wednesday evening, April 2, 2025, after suffering a heart attack earlier that day. According to local media, the acclaimed filmmaker, known for works such as Dear Diary and The Son’s Room, experienced a health crisis in the afternoon and was promptly taken to Rome’s San Camillo Hospital, where he underwent immediate surgery.
This isn't the first time Moretti has faced such a health scare. He previously suffered a heart attack on October 1, 2024, which forced him to cancel an appearance at the premiere of Vittoria, a drama he produced under his company Sacher Film. The day after his first heart attack, a video message from the hospital was shown at the screening, where he expressed his regret: "I'm sorry not to be there with you, but I'm not well. I will get better, I will return soon." Following that incident, he made a brief return to the public eye on October 3, attending a film screening at the Nuovo Sacher cinema in Rome.
Most recently, Moretti made an appearance at the Bari International Film & TV Festival in southern Italy in March 2025, where he participated in a retrospective of his work. The director was well-received, holding a masterclass and discussing his journey in cinema, reflecting on both his beginnings and his evolution as a filmmaker.
Born on August 19, 1953, in Brunico, Moretti has established himself as one of Italy's most significant directors. He made his directorial debut in 1976 with Io sono un autarchico and has since produced a remarkable body of work that has left an indelible mark on Italian cinema. His filmography includes numerous acclaimed titles, such as Sogni d'oro, which debuted at the Venice Film Festival in 1981 and earned him the Silver Lion. He also won the Silver Bear at the Berlin Film Festival for La messa è finita and the prestigious Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival in 2001 for The Son's Room.
Moretti's films often blend humor with social commentary, tackling complex themes ranging from family dynamics to political critique. His 2006 film The Caiman satirized former Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, while We Have a Pope explored the inner workings of the Vatican. His unique storytelling style, often likened to that of Woody Allen, combines autobiographical elements with fictional narratives, showcasing his talent for both humor and profound insight.
Despite the challenges posed by his health, Moretti's passion for filmmaking remains evident. His latest project, A Brighter Tomorrow, which he both directed and starred in, competed at the Cannes Film Festival in 2023. The film, which follows a director navigating personal and professional turmoil, further solidifies Moretti's status as a pivotal figure in contemporary cinema.
As he recovers in the hospital, fans and colleagues alike are hopeful for his swift return to health and the screen. His contributions to film have not only entertained audiences but have also sparked important conversations about society and culture in Italy and beyond. Updates on his condition are expected to be released by the hospital soon, and the film community eagerly awaits news of his recovery.
Moretti's legacy is one of resilience and creativity, and his ability to reflect the complexities of life through cinema has endeared him to many. As he faces this latest health challenge, the support from fans and fellow filmmakers underscores the impact he has made throughout his career.
