Sanremo festival director Conti expresses regret over comedian Pucci's withdrawal from co-hosting duties

Carlo Conti, artistic director of the Sanremo Music Festival, broke his silence on the controversy surrounding comedian Andrea Pucci's withdrawal from co-hosting duties at the event. Speaking on the radio program La Pennicanza on Rai Radio 2, Conti expressed his disappointment with Pucci's decision to decline the invitation.

Pucci, a Milan-based comedian, had been selected to co-host the third night of Sanremo 2026. However, he withdrew from the role after facing criticism on social media. Users had objected to past remarks attributed to him that were characterized as homophobic, racist, and sexist. Following the backlash, Pucci announced he would not participate, citing threats and insults received online.

Conti told Fiorello during the radio broadcast that he was sorry about Pucci's choice both from a human and professional standpoint. "I'm very sorry for Andrea, both from a human and professional perspective. I chose him because he has performed in thousands of shows. It was his autonomous choice. I'm sorry he made this decision, but it's personal," Conti said.

The artistic director explained that he had selected Pucci because he is an artist who fills theaters. Conti acknowledged that comedians performing at Sanremo face particular pressures. He referenced the experience of fellow comedian Crozza, who had been poorly treated on the festival stage in the past. "A comedian remembers how Crozza was mistreated on that stage. Mindful of this, a comedian feels fear. Instead, he must arrive on that stage with lightness and serenity. If that's missing, he preferred to stay home," Conti said.

Conti also noted that while Sanremo is Sanremo and generates news, the situation was not intended to become a major affair. He stated that the selection of performers was based on their professional credentials rather than scrutiny of their past statements.