Ornella Vanoni, one of Italy's most celebrated musical icons, is gearing up to celebrate her 90th birthday next September, still captivating audiences with her vibrant personality and impactful music. Recently, she appeared on the talk show Verissimo-Le storie, hosted by Silvia Toffanin, where she shared insights from her nearly seventy-year career filled with love, loss, and unforgettable performances.
During her time on the show, Vanoni discussed her latest album, titled Diverse, which was released on October 18 under BMG. This new project, featuring the hit single "Ti voglio" with artists Elodie and Ditonellapiaga, showcases her artistic evolution and her ability to remain relevant within the music scene. She expressed her joy at releasing music even at her age, emphasizing her desire to keep singing and connecting with her audience.
While sharing stories from her life, Vanoni candidly admitted to having squandered much of her fortune over the years. "I lost everything. Partly because I was exploited: after tours, they would sometimes only give me half of what I was owed; they knew I wasn't checking. And partly because of my sense of loneliness. I was always alone in my choices; I’d throw money around," she confessed. The singer lamented her frequent isolation, recalling the moments when she would buy and decorate homes only to sell them later, often for much less, after realizing no one was visiting her, not even her son.
Vanoni’s life has not only been marked by her incredible musical achievements but also by her famous romances. She was involved with renowned figures such as Giorgio Strehler and Gino Paoli, relationships filled with passion and turbulence. Strehler, the acclaimed director, was her first significant love. Their affair began when Vanoni joined his theater group at the Piccolo Teatro di Milano. “He was the man I loved the most,” Vanoni confessed, even as she reflected on the complications their relationship faced due to jealousy and societal expectations.
Following her relationship with Strehler, she became romantically linked to Gino Paoli, another giant of Italian music. Their connection was electric, sparking interest across Italy. Unfortunately, their relationship experienced significant strain following Vanoni’s miscarriage, which precipitated their eventual breakup. Yet, Vanoni and Paoli have remained close friends throughout the years, often collaborating on stage and respecting each other's artistic journeys.
Among her personal connections, the most poignant is her relationship with her only son, Cristiano Ardenzi. Born from her marriage to Lucio Ardenzi, Cristiano has always been kept away from the spotlight, initially by Vanoni’s choice and later by his own. The singer remarked on their bond, saying, "My son looks at me suspiciously," showcasing the complexity of raising a child under the watchful eye of fame.
Her marriage to Lucio Ardenzi, which lasted only two years, was forged during a tumultuous time. Vanoni met Ardenzi after her breakups with both Strehler and Paoli, calling their union almost serendipitous. From this union, Cristiano was born, and even after their separation, both have maintained mutual respect for one another. When Ardenzi passed away from complications due to illness in 2002, Vanoni penned a heartfelt tribute to him, thanking him for their shared son and reflecting on their time together.
Despite her past romantic entanglements and the chaos of her personal life, Vanoni remains fiercely proud of her accomplishments. She has consistently drawn on the same energy and passion she had as a youthful performer, keeping her performances lively and engaging. Guests often find her unpredictable nature both charming and refreshing, as she navigates conversations about her career and relationships with honesty and humor.
Sylvia Toffanin, the host of Verissimo, cleverly tried to spotlight her relationship with Paoli, leading to Vanoni's sharp response: “Oh please, enough talking about Gino Paoli! It's like he doesn't exist; he always sleeps!” This moment encapsulated Vanoni's feisty spirit, illustrating how she refuses to be pigeonholed by her past relationships.
At 90 years old, Vanoni shows no signs of slowing down. She actively participates as a sought-after guest on prominent TV programs, showcasing her effortless charm and storytelling prowess. With unwavering authenticity, Vanoni actively defies the notion of retiring, still feeling the rhythm of her musical heart. Her continuous engagement with the public and passion for music serve as the foundations for her remarkable career.
Through the ups and downs, Ornella Vanoni embodies the essence of resilience and creativity. Her extraordinary life story is not just about her iconic status but also about her personal triumphs and complex relationships. With each performance and anecdote she shares, the singer continues to inspire and entertain, reminding everyone of the magic still alive within her, even at the age of 90.
