Italian TV icon and entertainment
legend Raffaella Carrà died on Monday at the age of 78, her
family said.
The singer, actress, dancer and TV host, who starred with Frank
Sinatra in Von Ryan's Express in 1965 and found cult TV success
in Spain and other countries, becoming a gay icon, had been ill
for some time.
Her widower, choreographer and director Sergio
Iapino, said "her talent will shine forever".
Culture Minister Dario Franceschini said: "With the passing of
Raffaella Carrà we lose the Lady of Italian television. A woman
of great talent, passion and humanity who accompanies us our
whole lives through. Addio Raffaella".
Rock great Vasco Rossi tweeted "The most BEAUTIFUL and the best
of all time!! ciao Raffaella viva #raffaellacarrá".
Music legend Gianni Morandi said "What grief: I can't believe
it..." in a Facebook post showing one of their TV duets, in
Lucio Battisti's 'Il mio canto liìbero'.
RAI State broadcaster presenting queen Milly Carlucci tweeted
"I'm shocked. A sad and painful day. A hug full of affection for
her loved ones and a huge thanks to you Raffaella, for
everything that you gave us. #RaffaellaCarrà".
Fellow presenter Antonella Clerici tweeted: "Unimitable, unique,
a true Star, a talent to watch with admiration and respect. I
would have liked to tell her many things but I never
dared...buon viaggio".
Legendary songwriter Mogol told ANSA "Raffaella was a dear
person, and then so joyous, so happy, brava, kind. Such a death
is sad for everyone, Raffaella was a person from another time,
for Italian television a historic figure, really an icon of our
country. I remember like that, smiling, joyous and beautiful".
Journalist and talk-show host Massimo Giletti said "Never known
such a vital woman: perfect antithesis of death, Ciao immense
Raffaella".
Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio said "an icon of Italian TV, a
member of the family for whole generations. Her passing leave a
great void and much, so much sadness. I join in the grief of her
loves ones. Addio Raffaella, you will always remain in our
hearts".
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