On December 22, 2024, audiences tuned in to the final episode of the year for Che Tempo Che Fa, hosted by Fabio Fazio, as it aired on channel Nove. Fazio welcomed star-studded guests including the legendary actor Richard Gere and Grammy-winning singer Michael Bublé, promising fans not only laughter but also engaging discussions on pressing cultural topics and anecdotes from their illustrious careers.
A pivotal moment of the episode was Fazio's interview with Richard Gere, who opened up about his initial reluctance to star alongside Julia Roberts in the classic film, Pretty Woman. Gere admitted, "I wasn't sure I wanted to act alongside Julia Roberts," which surprised fans who’ve come to love the film. He explained how his doubts were overshadowed by the chemistry he developed on set, calling his experience both rewarding and enjoyable.
Meanwhile, Michael Bublé, known for his holiday classics, brought his own festive charm. The singer delightfully shared his Christmas traditions, discussing how he celebrates the holiday season with Italian cuisine, including panettone. His banter with Fazio was light-hearted, especially when he responded to Fazio's playful question about handling his children's music preferences: "I love all kinds of music, and I want to work with diverse artists." This candidness provided insight not only about his artistry but also his genuine passion for music.
An undercurrent of the episode was the controversy surrounding popular artist Tony Effe, who was recently excluded from the upcoming New Year's Concert in Rome. Fazio made headlines by expressing his support for Effe during panel discussions featuring journalists Aldo Cazzullo, Massimo Giannini, and Annalisa Cuzzocrea. He emphasized the weight of words for artists, stating, "Without any moralism, what I think is unforgivable is the waste of words. Artists hold powerful tools like their lyrics, and they should think carefully before using violent or disparaging language against women." This stance drew significant attention, illustrating the heated discussions happening within the Italian music scene.
The festive atmosphere had its lighter moments too, especially when Fazio experienced a comedic slip during the show's sign-off. He candidly exclaimed, "Merry Christmas to all my colleagues from Rai..." before catching himself and rectifying his mistake with laughter from the audience. This relatable gaffe brought levity to the broadcast, highlighting the unpredictable nature of live television.
Completing the star lineup, other guests included some notable names from Italian comedy and entertainment, such as Ficarra and Picone, who discussed their upcoming film, L'abbaglio, scheduled to hit the theaters. Their charm and humor complemented the myriad of guests, contributing to the episode's overall gravitas amid the holiday cheer.
Fazio wrapped up the night reflecting on the year gone by and the transition to Nove, leaving viewers entertained and pondering over pivotal societal conversations spurred during the closing episode. Audiences were left feeling optimistic as Fazio promised to return for another year of insightful discussions and joyous entertainment, delighting fans who have followed Che Tempo Che Fa on its new platform.
