Antonello Fassari, Icon of Italian Cinema and TV, Dies at 72

Antonello Fassari, a beloved figure in Italian cinema and the comedy world, has passed away at the age of 72.

Antonello Fassari, a prominent figure in Italian cinema and television, renowned for his roles in iconic shows like Avanzi and the cherished series I Cesaroni, where he portrayed the innkeeper Cesare, has passed away at the age of 72.

After completing his studies at the Silvio d’Amico Academy of Dramatic Art in 1975, he immersed himself in the theatre scene. However, it was through his involvement in variety shows and fictional works that he truly rose to prominence, capturing the hearts of audiences, particularly from the mid-80s onwards.

The announcement, first reported by the website ‘Cinemotore’, has been validated on the actor’s Facebook page, where friends and colleagues are sharing their heartfelt condolences.

“You will forever be my brother”: Claudio Amendola expresses his sorrow over the passing of Antonello Fassari, the actor with whom he embarked on the Cesaroni journey and beyond. “We were aware that this new series would be a tribute to him, given the dreadful affliction that had befallen him, yet we were utterly unprepared for the news.” “For me, it feels like a chapter of life has closed; it’s difficult to even articulate,” he expresses with palpable emotion to ANSA. “I can only hope he’s whispering somewhere up there.”

In addition to his work in theatre, he has engaged with television and radio, participating in dramas and variety shows such as Avanzi, Anni ’50, Al di là delle frontiere, and I Cesaroni.

In 1984, he produced a rap track titled “Romadinotte”, for which he penned the lyrics, accompanied by a backing track crafted by Lele Marchitelli, Danilo Rea, and Pasquale Minieri. For the radio, he was involved in the production of the drama I tre moschettieri.

In July 2004, he orchestrated and presented a theatrical adaptation of Pier Paolo Pasolini’s “La ricotta” at the Todi festival. He ventured into film directing with the 2000 release Il segreto del giaguaro, featuring Piotta in the lead role.

In 1995, he appeared in the film “Selvaggi,” and a decade later, he took on the role of Ciro Buffoni in “Romanzo criminale.” Between 2006 and 2014, he played a pivotal role in the renowned Canale 5 series I Cesaroni, portraying the innkeeper Cesare. Alongside Claudio Amendola and Max Tortora, he garnered significant acclaim from the audience.

In 2011, he featured in the film “Box Office 3D – The film of films,” created by and starring Ezio Greggio. Then, in 2014, he appeared in “La mossa del pinguino,” a film directed by Claudio Amendola.

In 2015, he participated in the film “Suburra” and also featured in the TV miniseries “Luisa Spagnoli”, sharing the screen with Luisa Ranieri. He also participated in the film “Assolo,” directed by and featuring Laura Morante.

A supporter of Roma, he received a special accolade in January 2020 during the 13th edition of the Premio Sette Colli Romanisti.

In 2024, he made his debut in the inaugural piece “Il tempo è ancora nostro,” directed by Maurizio Matteo Merli.