Fiorello hosts masked artist TonyPitony on Italian television, urges Sanremo organizers to book him

Masked artist TonyPitony made his first appearance on Italian state television Tuesday, called live onto Fiorello's show "La Pennicanza" by the host, who expressed enthusiasm for the musician's work.

TonyPitony, whose real identity and face remain unknown to the public, joined the program via telephone from London. Fiorello introduced him as a talent capable of illuminating "this musical flatness afflicting the Italian scene," describing him as a phenomenon who has gained significant traction on social media and streaming charts.

During the call, TonyPitony discussed his recent success with characteristic humor. "I don't realize the success, and that's just as well," he said, joking that he was reading a nonexistent book titled "The 9999 Photos of Feet," adding: "In reality it doesn't exist—it's a book you have to write first and then read."

The artist addressed the theme song for FantaSanremo, a popular fantasy competition tied to the Sanremo Music Festival. He credited a person named Papalina with having confidence in him for the project.

Fiorello used the platform to make a direct appeal to Sanremo organizers regarding TonyPitony's potential participation in the festival. The host suggested there was a specific evening at the competition that would be perfect for the masked performer. Fiorello also proposed a future duet, saying: "Tony closes his concerts with My Way: the endpoint of my career will be precisely to duet with you to the notes of My Way."

When asked about his own participation in Sanremo, Fiorello declined, saying "No. But it will be funny."

TonyPitony's rise has been marked by mystery surrounding his identity and appearance. Despite widespread speculation and curiosity, he has maintained anonymity while building a following through his music and social media presence. His texts have been described as heavy, though Fiorello defended the artistic merit of his work during the broadcast.