Vittorio Sgarbi, the prominent Italian art critic and politician, is currently hospitalized at the Policlinico Gemelli in Rome, facing serious health challenges stemming from a severe depressive state. As of March 27, 2025, his condition has raised significant concern, particularly due to his refusal to eat over recent months. His daughter, Evelina Sgarbi, made a public appearance on the program La Volta Buona on Rai Uno, where she expressed her deep worries about her father's well-being.
Evelina, who had not seen her father since November 2024, described her recent visit as emotionally distressing. "I found him very unwell, and it shook me to see him like this. I didn't think the situation was that serious," she shared, her voice reflecting the gravity of the moment. She noted that despite his previous refusal to eat, he had accepted food on the day of her visit, which she considered a positive sign.
During the interview, Evelina revealed the extent of their communication difficulties in the months leading up to his hospitalization. "He hasn't answered the phone or read messages for months. I wanted to see him for New Year's, but there was no way to get in touch," she explained. This lack of communication has been a source of pain for her, as it highlighted the distance that had grown between them.
The relationship between father and daughter has been complex, particularly following Evelina's refusal to participate in the reality show Grande Fratello, which her father had hoped she would join. "He took it very badly, interpreting it as a rejection of his world," Evelina recounted. This disagreement has led to a strain in their relationship, with Sgarbi even stopping financial support for her education at the Istituto Marangoni in Milan after her refusal. "He said, 'You could have paid for it with the money from Grande Fratello,'" Evelina recalled, emphasizing the emotional toll this situation has had on her.
Sgarbi's mental health struggles have been well-documented, with Evelina noting that his condition has worsened since he last spoke publicly about his depression. In a recent interview with La Repubblica, he candidly addressed his situation, stating, "My current melancholy or depression is a moral and physical condition that I cannot avoid. Just as we have a body, there are also shadows of the mind, thoughts, ghosts that are with us and that I cannot drive away." This insight into his mental state adds a layer of understanding to the challenges he has been facing.
As a public figure known for his vibrant personality and sharp wit, the drastic change in Sgarbi's demeanor has been alarming to those who know him. Evelina expressed her disbelief at his current state, saying, "Everyone knows his vitality. It has been quite heavy to see him like this." She also mentioned that her sister had visited him, while her brother had not, indicating the family dynamics at play during this challenging time.
Despite the grim circumstances, there is a glimmer of hope as Evelina reported that her father had started to regain some weight after accepting food. "It seems there is improvement; he has accepted to eat today, which is a step forward," she said, cautiously optimistic about his recovery. This small victory, however, is tempered by the reality of his ongoing battle with depression.
The public's concern for Sgarbi has been palpable, with many expressing their support and sending well wishes for his recovery. His previous appearances on television, particularly his last visit to La Volta Buona in December 2024, showcased a different side of him, one that was not as vibrant or lively as his fans had come to expect. Host Caterina Balivo recalled, "He was not in a good mood, but no one would have thought he was facing such a crisis. He was not the usual Vittorio Sgarbi; he wasn't smiling or cheerful; he seemed annoyed... he wasn't himself."
The situation has sparked discussions about mental health awareness, particularly among public figures who often face immense pressure and scrutiny. Evelina's candidness about her father's struggles serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking help and the complexities of mental health issues.
As the Sgarbi family navigates this difficult chapter, Evelina remains hopeful for her father's recovery. "I think it might be necessary to move him to a psychiatric facility," she suggested, highlighting the seriousness of his condition and the need for specialized care. The family is grappling with the reality of his illness while also cherishing the hope that he can overcome these challenges.
Vittorio Sgarbi's story is not just one of personal struggle but also reflects broader societal issues surrounding mental health. His journey serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of compassion, understanding, and support for those battling depression and other mental health conditions.
