A "sleepless night and many tears." Elisa Isoardi breaks her silence after the controversy erupted on social media over the "death toto" that appeared in the editorial office of "Bar Centrale," the program she hosts on Rai 1.
The host posted a message on Instagram shortly before the broadcast began: "Dear everyone, after a sleepless night and many tears shed, I finally find the strength to speak," she wrote. "And I do so to say that I am truly sorry for this incident, which unintentionally disrespected friends and figures in Italian culture. Unfortunately, these things can happen in the rush of social media communication."
The story stemmed from an Instagram story Isoardi posted to share a behind-the-scenes look at the program. In the image, which has since been removed, a blackboard with the title "Dead Pool"—a game of predictions about the deaths of famous people—was visible behind a female collaborator. Among the names, along with their ages, were figures from the worlds of entertainment, music, and politics . The presence of Italian President Sergio Mattarella also sparked particular outrage.
The host then reiterated her apology, clarifying her position on the list's origin: "It was certainly not our intention to offend," Isoardi added. "That list wasn't drawn up by me, but I still take full responsibility for it. Because that's the right thing to do. So now let's move on. See you soon at 2 pm, as always, on "Bar Centrale" on Rai1."
Isoardi opened the episode with a smile and didn't openly address the issue. Only one quip, when Gigi Marzullo complimented her on her appearance, hinted at the difficult night she'd just had: "I slept peacefully last night, really," she said amid laughter. After that brief exchange, the episode continued without further reference to the controversy.
(Unioneonline/D)