On Friday, April 18, 2025, fans of the popular Italian talk show "Quarto Grado" will find themselves without their weekly dose of true crime and current affairs. The show, hosted by Gianluigi Nuzzi and Alessandra Viero, is taking a brief hiatus in observance of Good Friday, a decision communicated to viewers during the previous episode aired on April 11.
In place of "Quarto Grado," Rete 4 will broadcast the classic film "Il Re dei Re," a 1961 cinematic retelling of the life of Jesus, which aligns perfectly with the Easter season. Nuzzi and Viero reassured their audience that the show will return on April 25, 2025, at 21:20, just in time for the Liberation Day celebrations.
During the last episode, the hosts discussed several ongoing and high-profile criminal cases, including the investigation into Liliana Resinovich, who was found dead in January 2022, and the shocking murder of Pierina Paganelli, a 78-year-old woman brutally killed in 2023. The team at "Quarto Grado" has consistently aimed to shed light on these complex cases, utilizing exclusive testimonies, forensic expertise, and in-depth analyses to provide insights into the darker aspects of Italian society.
Both cases have captured public interest and raised numerous questions. The investigation into Resinovich's death initially suggested suicide but has since shifted towards a possible homicide, particularly after her husband, Sebastiano Visintin, was placed on the list of suspects. His recent comments, where he expressed his calmness and readiness to cooperate with his lawyers, have added another layer of intrigue to the unfolding narrative.
Meanwhile, the case of Pierina Paganelli, who was killed with 29 stab wounds in Rimini, continues to evolve. The investigation has revealed new audio evidence from a security camera that recorded sounds and words that could be pivotal in understanding the circumstances surrounding her death. As the audience awaits the next episode, many are eager to see how these cases will develop and what new revelations might come to light.
Despite the absence of the show this week, "Quarto Grado" maintains a strong connection with its audience through social media, where updates and discussions about ongoing cases continue. The hosts have expressed gratitude for their viewers' loyalty and anticipation for the show's return.
In recent weeks, "Quarto Grado" has also faced criticism for its choice of opening music in the last episode, which featured Elodie's song "Mi ami, mi odi" while displaying images of femicide victims. Some viewers found this juxtaposition to be in poor taste, suggesting that the selection of such a song was disrespectful to the gravity of the subject matter. Comments on social media ranged from calls for a more sensitive approach to outright disbelief that the show would choose such a pairing.
As the Easter holiday approaches, the programming on Italian television reflects the somber yet celebratory nature of the season. Rai 1, for instance, will feature the traditional Via Crucis live from the Colosseum, a deeply moving event that draws millions of viewers each year. This solemn ceremony, led by Pope Francis, provides a moment of reflection and spirituality amidst the festive atmosphere of Easter.
For those seeking entertainment during the evening, other channels will offer a variety of options. Rai 2 will air the stylish crime drama "Diabolik," while Canale 5 presents the emotional series "Tradimento," exploring complex relationships and personal struggles. Italia 1 will feature the action-packed film "Memory," starring Liam Neeson, while Iris showcases Clint Eastwood in "Firefox – Volpe di fuoco," a thrilling Cold War tale.
As viewers navigate their options for the evening, the absence of "Quarto Grado" might leave a noticeable gap for those who tune in regularly for its unique blend of investigative journalism and emotional storytelling. Nevertheless, the anticipation for its return next week remains high, as the show promises to delve deeper into the most pressing criminal cases currently captivating the nation.
In summary, while the absence of "Quarto Grado" this week may disappoint its dedicated fan base, the program's return on April 25 is highly anticipated. As the show resumes, it will continue to tackle the most compelling and controversial cases, maintaining its reputation as a leading voice in Italian true crime television.
