Angelo Longoni, a prominent figure in Italian cinema and theater, passed away on April 19, 2025, in Rome at the age of 68. His wife, actress Eleonora Ivone, confirmed the news, revealing that Longoni had been battling a rare cancer known as pleural mesothelioma, which was attributed to asbestos exposure. He leaves behind three daughters: Margherita, Stella, and Beatrice.
Born in Milan on October 19, 1956, Longoni was a multifaceted talent—an acclaimed director, screenwriter, playwright, and actor. He graduated from the Civica Scuola di Teatro Paolo Grassi in Milan, where he honed his skills and later trained under Mario Gonzalez at the Conservatory of Paris. Initially starting his career as an actor, he soon transitioned to directing and writing, leaving a significant mark on both theater and television.
Longoni’s illustrious career included directing films such as "Uomini senza donne" (1996) and "Naja" (1997), as well as television series like "Caravaggio" (2008) and "Un amore di strega" (2009). His work often explored the complexities of human relationships and societal issues, resonating deeply with audiences.
Among his notable theatrical works are "Uomini senza donne" and "Naja," both of which received critical acclaim. "Naja," which depicted the struggles of young soldiers, was later adapted into a film, further solidifying Longoni’s reputation as a leading figure in contemporary Italian drama. He was awarded the Riccione Ater Prize for this work, which also garnered several other accolades, including the Maschera d'Argento and the Premio Torre for civic engagement.
Longoni was not only a celebrated director but also a dedicated educator. He founded Cendic, the National Center for Contemporary Italian Dramaturgy, which aimed to promote and nurture new talent in the field. His commitment to teaching and mentoring young artists was evident throughout his career, as he taught acting, dramaturgy, and screenwriting.
In addition to his directing and teaching, Longoni was also an accomplished author. His last novel, "Destino," is set to be released posthumously on May 15, 2025, by Giunti Editore. In this work, he reflects on the unpredictability of life, stating, "The world is full of healthy people who die before a sick person who would not be given any chance of survival. The duration of each life depends on a flicker of life, a distraction on the highway, a misplaced foot, a rainy day, a missed train, a blocked coronary artery, and other fortuitous cases. It is not always the severity of an illness that kills, but destiny."
Longoni’s influence extended beyond the stage and screen; he was known for his ability to translate complex narratives from literature to performance. His works often highlighted the contradictions and vulnerabilities of human existence, making him a beloved figure in the arts community.
His passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and fans alike. Director Stefano Reali expressed his condolences on social media, stating, "We have lost a gentleman." The news of Longoni’s death spread rapidly, with many in the film and theater industry mourning the loss of a visionary artist.
Longoni’s funeral is scheduled for April 23, 2025, at 12:00 PM at the Church of Santa Maria in Trastevere, where friends, family, and fans will gather to pay their respects.
Throughout his career, Longoni directed and collaborated with many notable actors, including Alessio Boni, who starred in his acclaimed miniseries "Caravaggio." Boni has spoken highly of Longoni’s artistic vision, noting how he brought out the best in his performances and challenged him as an actor.
In addition to his cinematic achievements, Longoni founded the production company Wake Up Produzioni, which focused on creating innovative works for theater and film. His dedication to the arts and commitment to storytelling left an indelible mark on the Italian cultural landscape.
As the community reflects on Longoni’s legacy, his contributions to theater, film, and literature will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of artists. His ability to weave narratives that resonate with the human experience has solidified his place as a cornerstone of contemporary Italian dramaturgy.
Longoni’s life and work remind us of the power of storytelling and the importance of exploring the depths of human emotion and experience. His passing is not just a loss for his family and friends but for the entire artistic community that he enriched through his passion and creativity.
