Franco Simone Accuses Iva Zanicchi of 54-Year ‘Black List’ Ban in Italian Media
Italian singer-songwriter Franco Simone has reignited a long-standing feud with fellow artist Iva Zanicchi, claiming he remains on a ‘black list’ at state broadcaster Rai that has hindered his television career for over five decades. In a TikTok video posted on August 25, the 77-year-old artist detailed how he was recently dropped from two TV programs at the last minute due to an internal veto, which he attributes to a campaign against him that began with his debut record 54 years ago.
Simone, who has often been compared to the late Mia Martini, declared himself ‘the most slandered Italian artist after Mia Martini.’ He recounted that despite receiving a career achievement award at the Viña del Mar International Festival in 2003 from an international jury of journalists, he still faces exclusion from Rai programs. ‘They confirmed that even today I am on the black list, the so-called list of undesirables at Rai, without any fault, but only because of what they have told about me,’ he said in the video.
The controversy traces back to the reality show Music Farm, where Simone and Zanicchi had a public clash. Zanicchi, known as ‘L’Aquila di Ligonchio,’ has responded by insisting she has always helped Simone and denies any role in his alleged blacklisting. However, Simone remains adamant that her influence has been detrimental, and he has taken to social media to share his side of the story, hoping to shed light on what he perceives as an ongoing injustice.
This public spat highlights the often murky dynamics of Italian television politics, where personal grudges can allegedly impact professional opportunities. While Zanicchi has dismissed the accusations, Simone’s claims have sparked renewed debate among fans and media observers about the power structures within Rai and the lasting consequences of past conflicts. As the story gains traction online, it remains to be seen whether this latest outburst will lead to any change in Simone’s status or simply add another chapter to a decades-old dispute.
Shimanta Das 
