The former Sanremo host appeared on Fiorello's show, revealing past contestant decisions and suggesting openness to a festival return.
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Amadeus returned to RAI Wednesday after a two-year absence, appearing as a guest on "La Pennicanza," the Radio 2 program hosted by longtime collaborator Fiorello and Fabrizio Biggio.
The broadcaster received Amadeus at the RAI headquarters on Via Asiago with a standing ovation from the studio audience. The appearance was framed as a comedic bit in which Amadeus arrived without proper credentials, holding only a day pass valid until 14:30—the end of the broadcast. Fiorello went to personally escort him into the building, playing up the gag of an unwelcome guest.
Amadeus said he was "happy with the welcome" despite the entry difficulties. "In two years many things can change," he remarked. Fiorello and Biggio presented a video montage of iconic moments from the five Sanremo Festivals that Amadeus and Fiorello had hosted together, a partnership known as "Amarello."
During the segment, Amadeus and Fiorello performed an improvised duet to "Non Amarmi," a song by Aleandro Baldi and Francesca Alotta. Fiorello sang, "Tell me why you're crying," and Amadeus responded, "Out of happiness."
When asked about a potential return to Sanremo, Amadeus stated: "Sanremo is never refused." He added, "We lived five years with great joy and fun. And I love songs—I must have heard at least 5,000, from young artists and established performers."
Amadeus disclosed details about past contestant selections. "In the first year of the festival, I rejected Annalisa," he said. He also noted that he never excluded Massimo Ranieri or Emma from the competition. Regarding Benji & Fede, he said, "They tell me I didn't take them twice."
He defended his choices of younger artists Tananai and Olly, saying, "When not everyone was convinced, I pointed to them. I am very satisfied."
Amadeus also addressed his relationship with RAI, singing: "Even if RAI has enormous walls, I am not afraid and I want to overcome them." He is currently employed by Warner Bros. Discovery, with occasional appearances on "Amici di Maria De Filippi" on Canale 5.
Fiorello made light of recent corporate changes at RAI, joking: "In two years many things have happened. They are selling everything. If we don't move, they will sell us too."
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