Fiorello’s “La Pennicanza” Expands: A New Era for Italian Radio and TV
Rosario Fiorello and Fabrizio Biggio are experiencing a surge in popularity with their show, La Pennicanza, leading to a significant expansion of its reach. The program, which began on Rai Radio 2 in May 2025, is now set to be simulcast on Rai 2, mirroring the time slot previously occupied by Fiorello’s successful Viva Rai2!.
From Radio to Television: A Strategic Move
La Pennicanza initially gained traction as a radio show, airing weekdays from 1:45 PM to 2:30 PM, with a repeat broadcast in the early morning. The decision to bring it to television reflects its growing audience and the demand for more of Fiorello’s brand of entertainment. The television broadcast will include exclusive content, specifically designed to appeal to children watching before school.
Reviving a Familiar Time Slot
The move to Rai 2 is particularly noteworthy as it reinstates a daily show in the same time slot as Viva Rai2!, a program that ended in 2024 and has been sorely missed by viewers. This strategic decision aims to recapture that audience and establish La Pennicanza as a staple of Italian daytime television.
Beyond Entertainment: Commentary and Pop Culture
La Pennicanza isn’t solely focused on entertainment. The show incorporates current events commentary, as demonstrated by Fiorello’s recent remarks on the Oscars, including a playful jab at Timothée Chalamet. The program also features lighthearted segments, such as a recollection of Fiorello’s duet with Lady Gaga and humorous references to international press coverage of the hosts.
A Multi-Platform Experience
Listeners and viewers can access La Pennicanza through multiple channels: live on Rai Radio 2, on-demand via RaiPlay, and on digital terrestrial channel 202. This multi-platform approach ensures accessibility for a wide range of audiences.
The Rise of “Non-Ideas” and the Appeal of Fiorello and Biggio
The success of La Pennicanza can be attributed to the comedic chemistry between Fiorello and Biggio, and their approach of presenting “non-ideas” – a playful concept that suggests spontaneity and a departure from traditional programming. This resonates with audiences seeking lighthearted entertainment and a break from conventional formats.
The “Pennicanza” Concept: A Roman Tradition
The show’s title, La Pennicanza, is derived from the Roman dialect word “pennica,” meaning an afternoon nap. This cleverly aligns with the program’s broadcast time and reinforces its relaxed, informal atmosphere.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Italian Daytime Television
The expansion of La Pennicanza signals a potential shift in Italian daytime television, with a focus on personality-driven shows and multi-platform distribution. The program’s success could inspire other broadcasters to experiment with similar formats and embrace a more flexible approach to content delivery.
FAQ
What is La Pennicanza? La Pennicanza is a radio and television show hosted by Rosario Fiorello and Fabrizio Biggio, known for its comedic style and spontaneous format.
When and where can I watch/listen to La Pennicanza? The show airs live on Rai Radio 2 from 1:45 PM to 2:30 PM, with a repeat broadcast in the morning. It is also available on RaiPlay and on Rai 2.
What is the significance of the name La Pennicanza? The name refers to the traditional Roman afternoon nap, aligning with the show’s broadcast time.
Will there be new content on the television broadcast? Yes, the television version of La Pennicanza will include exclusive content tailored for children.
