In a landmark ruling that reshapes the legacy of former Pooh drummer Stefano D’Orazio, the Civil Court of Rome has declared 40-year-old Francesca Michelon the legitimate daughter of the late musician.

The decision follows a protracted legal battle and is backed by definitive DNA evidence.

DNA Test Confirms Paternity

The court’s judgment, issued on April 9 by judges Ienzi, Albano, and Caprara of the court’s first civil section, concludes a long-contested paternity case. A forensic examination of biological samples taken from hospital archives — where D’Orazio was treated before his death from COVID-19 complications in 2020 — confirmed without ambiguity that Michelon is his biological daughter.

Though D’Orazio never officially recognized Francesca during his lifetime — she was born from a relationship with Oriana Bolletta, who was then married to Diego Michelon — the court ruled that she is entitled to take her biological father’s surname and share in his estate.

Will Overturned, Damages Awarded

Alongside the recognition of paternity, the court annulled D’Orazio’s 2016 public will, redistributing his estate equally between his widow, Tiziana Giardoni, and his now legally recognized daughter. Giardoni has also been ordered to pay Michelon €60,000 in “existential damages,” a compensation for the psychological and personal harm caused by years of denial and legal uncertainty.

Testimonies from key figures in D’Orazio’s life, including former partner Lena Biolcati and fellow bandmate Red Canzian, were instrumental in the ruling. Biolcati recalled conversations in which D’Orazio had acknowledged Francesca as his daughter. Canzian, in testimony dating back to 2015, detailed instances in which Diego Michelon sought financial assistance from D’Orazio for Francesca’s upbringing, acknowledging her biological origin.

A Divided Legacy

Although the ruling is from a court of first instance, it is immediately enforceable. Francesca’s legal team — composed of Francesca Ursoleo, Francesco Stefanelli, and Luca Pozzolini — will now begin proceedings to determine the full value of D’Orazio’s estate. This includes liquid assets, property, and future royalty income from his music career, all of which will now be split equally between Michelon and Giardoni.

No other heirs exist, as D’Orazio had no other children. Michelon, currently abroad on vacation, received news of the ruling via phone.

Toward Closure

The ruling marks the end of a complex personal and legal journey for Michelon, who fought for recognition amid emotional and legal obstacles. It also opens a new chapter in the administration of D’Orazio’s artistic and financial legacy, now officially shared with his only biological child.