Ornella Vanoni, Iconic Italian Singer, Passes Away at 91: Remembering a Legendary Voice and Fearless Spirit
Milan – The world of music mourns the loss of an incomparable talent as Ornella Vanoni, one of Italy’s most beloved and iconic singers, passed away on Friday, November 21, 2025, at her home in Milan. She was 91. The news of her sudden death, attributed to cardiorespiratory arrest, marks the end of an era for Italian music and culture, leaving behind a legacy as profound as her distinctive, soulful voice.
Vanoni, a true “leonessa” (lioness) of the stage and screen, often approached the topic of mortality with her characteristic wit and irreverence. Just weeks before her passing, she playfully discussed gifting coffins to her peers during an appearance on Fabio Fazio’s popular show, Che tempo che fa. This fearless candor defined much of her life, as she famously declared on her 91st birthday: “I am a free woman. I have never allowed myself to be constrained by anything or anyone. And I have paid for everything with interest.”
A Life Lived on Her Own Terms: The Milanese Muse
Born in Milan on September 22, 1934, into a prosperous family, Ornella Vanoni’s Milanese roots would forever be intertwined with her identity. Her artistic journey began in 1953 when she enrolled in the dramatic arts academy of Giorgio Strehler’s Piccolo Teatro. It was here, under Strehler’s tutelage, that she not only honed her acting skills but also began to cultivate the magnetic musical interpretations that would define her career. Strehler, her mentor and lover, recognized her unique blend of beauty, elegance, and captivating stage presence.
From “Canzoni della Mala” to Global Acclaim
Vanoni’s early fame blossomed through her interpretations of the “Canzoni della Mala” (Songs of the Underworld), a collection of poetic and dramatic pieces tied to Milan’s criminal underworld. These tracks showcased her ability to imbue songs with raw emotion and theatrical depth. Her horizons, however, were destined to expand beyond this niche.
In 1960, she met Gino Paoli, sparking a passionate love affair and an intensely fruitful artistic collaboration. Their tumultuous relationship, though it eventually ended, remained a defining, deeply affectionate bond throughout her life. Despite this profound connection, Vanoni controversially married theatre impresario Lucio Ardenzi the same year, a decision she often regretted, confessing her heart still belonged to Paoli. The marriage was short-lived, ending in 1962 shortly after the birth of their son, Cristiano.
An Unstoppable Force: Chart-Topping Hits and Unforgettable Collaborations
Ornella Vanoni’s career soared, marked by countless appearances at the Sanremo Music Festival, acclaimed theatre roles, and frequent television invitations. Her repertoire includes enduring classics like “Tristezza,” “Una ragione di più,” and the iconic “L’appuntamento,” which later found a new audience as the theme song for the TV show “Belve.” Songs like “La voglia la pazzia l’incoscienza l’allegria” resonated with audiences for their joy and sensuality.
Never one to shy away from breaking norms, Vanoni famously posed nude for Playboy in the late 1970s, an act that, far from being vulgar, underscored her undeniable allure and sophisticated confidence. The 1985 reunion tour with Gino Paoli, “VanoniPaoli Insieme,” was a sold-out success, leading to an unforgettable double live album that captured their enduring chemistry.
Her prolific output continued with new albums, international tours, and collaborations with diverse artists, including jazz trumpeter Paolo Fresu. Her contributions were recognized with prestigious accolades, such as the “Premio Milano donna” and the “Premio Marisa Bellisario Speciale alla Carriera” in 2008, celebrating her as a woman who greatly contributed to Milan’s cultural fabric.
A Legacy of Wit, Wisdom, and an Unmistakable Voice
In her later years, Ornella Vanoni became even more beloved for her genuine frankness and sharp humor. She continued to perform, including a memorable concert at the Terme di Caracalla, and captivated millions as a regular guest on Che tempo che fa, where she spoke freely on any topic, endearing herself to new generations. She often stated her fear was not of death itself, but of suffering, a sentiment she maintained until the very end.
Ornella Vanoni leaves an indelible mark on music, theatre, and Italian culture. Her unique vocal style, elegant stage presence, and indomitable spirit will continue to inspire. She was, truly, a free woman who lived life, and faced its end, on her own terms.
For more on the extraordinary life and career of Ornella Vanoni, visit her official Wikipedia page.
