Marco Giallini makes his much-anticipated return as the titular character in the sixth season of the hit Italian crime drama series Rocco Schiavone, which premieres on February 26, 2025, on Rai 2. This season promises to bring fresh developments and complex narratives as Giallini’s character navigates his past and personal challenges.
Having first appeared as the vicequestore Rocco Schiavone in 2016, Giallini has since become synonymous with the role, attracting both admiration and critique for his portrayal of the cynical and flawed detective. The new season continues the storyline from the novels by Antonio Manzini, featuring fresh episodes such as "La ruzzica de li porci" and "Le ossa parlano". These narratives explore not only crime but also Schiavone's personal demons and struggles.
Giallini, now 61 years old, has faced renewed scrutiny over his physical appearance and health, as he appears more 'ciancicato' or haggard, as he himself described. He explained, "I've lost weight due to shooting for another film, and I've got thickened vocal cords from smoking, but I'm getting treatment for it." The actor’s commitment to his roles often leads him to drastic physical changes, demonstrating his dedication to authenticity.
Viewers have noticed changes not only in Giallini’s appearance but also in the emotional depth of his character this season. Describing Schiavone's evolution, Giallini remarked, "He’s becoming less desperate for love and more disillusioned. Marina's advice has become less consequential, and he is less anxious, more soft and ephemeral." The character's struggle with loss continues as he grapples with the memory of his late wife, Marina, portrayed as both ghost and metaphor for Giallini's own loss.
The creative direction for this season, under the guidance of director Simone Spada, promises innovation, aiming for distinct narrative temperatures with each episode. Spada stated, "We're trying to create different acting 'temperatures' for each chapter this season, linked to the broader story. Each year we endeavor to do something varied." This direction hints toward bold storytelling, involving thrilling escapades to Buenos Aires, marking Schiavone's return to his roots in Rome briefly to resolve unresolved issues.
One of the most intriguing developments this season is the return of vice-inspector Caterina Rispoli, played by Claudia Vismara. Rispoli’s character was pivotal during the initial seasons but had diminished as her role as Schiavone’s spy was uncovered. Vismara expressed hope for Rispoli as she re-establishes her connection to Schiavone, believing the tension between them remains. "They both have never truly stopped wanting each other, though he is more closed off now than ever.”
Interestingly, the audience will also meet Italo Pierron, played by Paolo Bernardini, who replaces the previous actor, Ernesto D'Argenio. Bernardini claimed, "I've been made to feel at home here, and I'll bring another physique to the role, but the character's essence remains familiar. Italo is truly torn between love and hate for Rocco." This new dynamic adds layers to the interactions within the team.
Despite Giallini facing questions about his health and the direction of his character's vices, particularly smoking cannabis, he staunchly defends his portrayal, saying, "A television series should be understood as fiction. Just because people see me as Schiavone, it doesn't mean they should mimic my actions...It’s important to separate reality from performance.”
Transitioning from the serious themes and personal anecdotes, Giallini's glimpses of humor often shine through. Reflecting on his character’s life and struggles, he admits, “Sometimes I look at myself and think, ‘Oh my God, I look dead!’” This candidness endears him to fans who seek not just entertainment but connection with the actor behind the character.
Giallini's performance continually resonates with audiences, drawing them not just to the crime element of Rocco Schiavone, but to the personal story of loss, resilience, and the search for redemption. This season, as Giallini delves back deep with the vicequestore's complex psyche, viewers are set for yet another rollercoaster of emotions.
With season 6 underway, Giallini reassures fans he is doing well, stating, "I’m on the mend, and everything should return to normal soon.” Enthusiasts can look forward to the deepening nuances of their favorite flawed anti-hero as they join Schiavone on his continuing battle through the shadows of Aosta.