Paolo Kessisoglu and his daughter Lunita took to the stage at Sanremo 2025 for what became one of the festival’s most poignant moments, showcasing not just their artistic talents but also their deep commitment to addressing significant social issues. On the night of February 14, 2025, during the festival’s celebrated evening of duets and covers, the duo performed their deeply moving song, "Paura di Me," which tackles the pressing problems of emotional and psychological health among adolescents.
The performance took place on the iconic Ariston stage and marked the first time Lunita, who is also known as Iamolliee, showcased her musical talents to such a broad audience. Paolo Kessisoglu, stoic yet expressive, shared his worries about today’s youth, stating, "E' un mondo difficile, è una società complicata. I giovani sono complicati..." This sentiment captured the struggles faced by many young people today, particularly in the wake of the global pandemic, which he noted had acted as a catalyst for many pre-existing issues.
Kessisoglu emphasized the growing emotional hardships faced by millennials and Gen Z, drawing attention to alarming trends such as self-harm and suicidal thoughts, which have become increasingly prevalent. "Ci sono varie patologie che non ci immaginiamo..." he declared, capturing the gravity of the situation with sincerity. According to him, it is imperative for both parents and society to guide young individuals through their emotional turmoil.
During the performance, the harmonious blend of Paolo’s seasoned experience and Lunita’s fresh voice created an unforgettable atmosphere. They sought not only to entertain but also to communicate the urgent need for dialogue about emotional well-being, especially among teenagers, who often feel marginalized and unsupported.
Lunita, born to Kessisoglu and journalist Sabrina Donadel, is not just following her father’s footsteps; she is carving out her own identity and voice within the creative space. At 21 years old, she carries the weight of her generation's struggles, identifying as non-binary and advocating for inclusion and self-determination through her art. The pair's collaboration on "Paura di Me" not only underlines their personal bond but reflects Lunita's artistic ambitions and fierce commitment to representing contemporary youth issues.
Kessisoglu, who has had notable experiences throughout his entertainment career, previously hosted the Sanremo festival back in 2011, alongside other well-known figures. His path, marked by highs and lows, encompasses the loss of loved ones and personal transformations, culminating in his current life stage where he actively advocates for mental health awareness.
Paolo's humor and empathy shape his parenting style, particularly following his separation from Donadel. Reflecting on his role as a father, he said, "Penso che sia meglio fare un pezzo unico!" illustrating his belief in the importance of devoting oneself entirely to family. Despite challenges, his focus remains on fostering strong bonds with Lunita.
During their poignant performance at Sanremo, some critics noted minor performance flaws, yet the emotional message they conveyed was undeniably impactful. Many expressed appreciation not just for the technical aspects but for the authenticity and vulnerability displayed on stage, demonstrating the courage it takes to articulate such heartfelt truths.
"Paura di Me" has been well-received, becoming available on all major streaming platforms, allowing audiences beyond the festival to connect with its meaningful narrative. By sharing their experience and this song, Paolo and Lunita strive to influence conversations surrounding youth isolation, especially as we navigate changing social landscapes reconstructed through technology and digital platforms.
Through their heartfelt expression, they resonate with those struggling, hopefully opening dialogue between generations about the difficulties younger individuals face. Their candid performance has reaffirmed the notion: music can serve as both refuge and rallying cry. Paolo and Lunita Kessisoglu’s moment at Sanremo 2025 is one of shared pain, art, and unity—it is about illuminating the challenges present within society.