Italian cinema is in mourning following the death of Alvaro Vitali, the iconic actor affectionately known as “Pierino.” Vitali, who was born on February 3, 1950, in Rome, Italy, passed away on Tuesday evening in Rome at the age of 75. He had been hospitalized two weeks prior for recurrent bronchopneumonia, a detail confirmed by his ex-wife, Stefania Corona, in a recent media interview.
The Rise and Fall of a Comedic Icon
Alvaro Vitali rose to fame in the 1970s and 80s, becoming a household name in Italy through his “Pierino” character. His films, often characterized by their blend of comedic and sometimes suggestive scenes, were incredibly popular during their time. Vitali’s unique comedic timing and distinct persona cemented his status as a comedic icon of Italian cinema.
However, after the turn of the millennium, Vitali found fewer opportunities in the film industry. This decline in his career led to personal struggles, including a battle with depression. He openly discussed his financial difficulties, noting that his monthly pension of just 1300 euros felt inadequate given his extensive filmography and significant contributions to Italian popular culture.
A Complex Personal Life in His Final Years
Vitali’s final years were marked by a complex personal life, particularly concerning his relationship with ex-wife Stefania Corona. Despite their divorce in 2025, chosen by Corona, the two continued to live under the same roof. Their relationship, however, was clearly strained.
In a recent appearance on “La Volta Buona,” Stefania Corona revealed she had fallen in love with another man and spoke candidly about the ongoing conflicts with Vitali. “We still sleep under the same roof, but I don’t agree,” she confessed. “He is an actor. With my new partner, we all live together, but my attention is all for Alvaro.” She also indicated that they still had joint projects, stating, “We have work to carry on. He needs me, but only for convenience.”
Vitali, on his part, had made a public plea for reconciliation in a letter, expressing his readiness to “overlook your mistake.” However, Corona remained unconvinced, citing her ex-husband’s children’s reluctance for their grandchildren to call her “grandma.” Their communication seemingly relied on indirect channels like television appearances and letters, highlighting the distance between them despite their shared living situation.
Alvaro Vitali and Stefania Corona first met in 1998 and married in 2006. Their intertwined lives, marked by both professional collaboration and personal complexities, continued until his passing, leaving behind a legacy that transcends his comedic roles.
