Rocco Siffredi, the famed Italian adult film star, recently opened up about his life and family during his appearance on the Christmas special of Verissimo, hosted by Silvia Toffanin. The show, broadcast on December 28, 2024, provides viewers with insight not only about his notorious career but also about the emotional struggles he faces as a husband and father.
Siffredi, known as the 'Italian Stallion', has had an unyielding presence in the adult film industry since he entered the sphere in 1986, starring in over 1,300 films. His storied career began when he discovered pornographic magazines as a teenager, which propelled him to move to Paris where he immersed himself within sex clubs, eventually meeting and working with various figures within the industry.
During the interview, Rocco shared candid and heart-wrenching reflections on the guilt he feels for having exposed his family to the repercussions of his work. While discussing his decision to step away from adult films, he remarked, "Sento di aver trascinato mia moglie Rosa e i nostri ragazzi a portare una croce che non hanno scelto" (I feel like I have dragged my wife Rosa and our children to bear a burden they did not choose). These words encapsulated his internal conflict as he strives to balance his career with his family's emotional wellbeing.
The connection Siffredi has with his wife, Rozsa Tassi, was also highlighted. Their enduring relationship has weathered many storms, as they met on the set of one of his films back in 1993. Rozsa, who also has made her mark on the modeling scene and is known for her poise and beauty, won the title of Miss Hungary before becoming entangled with the controversial life of Rocco. Despite the odds, Rocco described her invaluable influence, stating, "Grazie a lei, sono rinato" (Thanks to her, I have been reborn), showcasing how pivotal she has been to his metamorphosis beyond the adult industry.
Viewers were captivated as the couple revealed their stories throughout the episode. Prior to the interview, their sons, Lorenzo and Leonardo Tano, shared their teenage shock of discovering their father's past. They recounted their astonishment when, as young boys, they found a VHS tape labeled 'Tarzan.' Lorenzo and Leonardo explained, "Eravamo piccoli, abbiamo preso una cassetta e c'era scritto sopra 'Tarzan'" (We were little, we took a tape and it said 'Tarzan'). Despite their youthful discovery creating challenges, the brothers reflected on how now, they bond over their father's legacy.
Today, both Lorenzo and Leonardo are establishing their own identities apart from their father's shadow. Lorenzo has transitioned from finance to production, taking on roles within the family business, where he utilizes his skills to help modernize Siffredi's production techniques. Meanwhile, Leonardo has found success as a model and participant on the popular dance show Ballando con le stelle, recently making headlines for his romantic link-up with dance partner Lucrezia Lando.
Their journeys demonstrate how Rocco’s past does not define their future, and highlights their proactive choices to carve individual paths away from the adult film industry. Yet, the emotional threads binding this family remain resilient.
Looking back over his decades-long career, Siffredi is now coming to terms with the legacy he’s created. The emotional turmoil stemming from his former profession has transformed his view on family life. It seems the more he navigates his past, the tighter his bonds grow with his wife and sons.
Rocco Siffredi’s legacy is more than just adult films; it’s wrapped up with the love and sacrifice of his family, which survived through years of controversy and public scrutiny. The Christmas special of Verissimo served as not only entertainment but also as a poignant reminder of the struggles of fame and the undying commitment to family.
