The lying-in-state for renowned Italian television host Pippo Baudo opened at 10 AM at Rome’s Teatro delle Vittorie, allowing the public a final farewell to the presenter who died two days ago at age 89. It will remain open until 8 PM today and from 9 AM to 12 PM tomorrow.
Mara Venier and Katia Ricciarelli were among the first to arrive, entering arm-in-arm. They embraced Rai Director General Roberto Sergio at the entrance before taking seats in the family section alongside Baudo’s daughter and assistant.
The coffin, positioned before a red curtain and surrounded by crimson roses, rests in the very studio where Baudo created his most iconic programs. Screens display career highlights, while floral tributes include wreaths from Italian President Sergio Mattarella, the Chamber of Deputies, Rome’s mayor, and state broadcaster Rai. A military honor guard stands vigil.
Rai’s Roberto Sergio stated: “Pippo remains with us. Rai will continue to draw inspiration from him.” Attendees paying homage included Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli, entertainers Lino Banfi, Fiorello, Renzo Arbore, Max Giusti, singer Eros Ramazzotti, Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, lawyer Giorgio Assumma, host Gigi Marzullo, and actress Gloria Guida.
An emotional Banfi recalled: “We joked about being the four ‘Bs’ of ’36: Banfi, Baudo, Bergoglio [Pope Francis], and Berlusconi. Alas, only I remain.”
Baudo’s funeral will be held Wednesday in his hometown of Militello in Val di Catania.