Ezio Greggio

Ezio Greggio Biography

Ezio Greggio is a renowned Italian TV show host, comedian, actor, director, producer, and screenwriter. He is most famous for his long-standing role as the face and ambassador of the satirical news television show "Striscia la Notizia," which he has hosted for over 32 years. With a career spanning more than four decades, Greggio has become a prominent figure in the Italian entertainment industry, known for his sharp wit and comedic talent that have earned him numerous awards including multiple Telegatti Awards and other prestigious honors. His influence also extends to film, where he has acted in over 30 movies and directed several films, including Italy's first 3D movie.

Childhood

Ezio Greggio was born on April 7, 1954, in Cossato, a small town in the province of Vercelli, Italy. He grew up in a family with a strong work ethic; his father, Nereo Greggio, was the director of a textile company and had a wartime background that involved internment during World War II. His mother, Luciana Boggiani, was also employed at the textile company. Although his father hoped for him to pursue a more conventional profession like banking, Ezio was drawn to the world of entertainment and began exploring opportunities in comedy and television from a young age.

Education

While there is limited detailed public information about his formal education, Ezio Greggio’s early involvement in television began with local private stations, such as Telebiella, where he started his career at the age of 18. His training and development in comedy and television came largely from practical experience in early Italian TV comedy shows rather than formal higher education, which paved the way for his distinctive style and success in the entertainment industry.

Career

Ezio Greggio’s career began in the late 1970s with the television show "La Sberla" on RaiUno. His national breakthrough came in 1983 with "Drive In" on Italia Uno, a variety show that became a launching platform for many Italian comedians. In 1988, Greggio began hosting "Striscia la Notizia," a satirical news program that parodies current events and political scandals; this show remains one of the most viewed programs in Italy. In cinema, Greggio has been featured in over 30 films, working with esteemed directors like Pupi Avati and Mel Brooks. He also ventured into directing, notably with "Box Office 3D" in 2011, Italy’s first 3D movie. Additionally, he founded and presides over the Monte-Carlo Comedy Film Festival, which focuses exclusively on comedy films and promotes emerging talent worldwide.

Family Life

Ezio Greggio was married to Spanish model Isabel Bengochea for about 20 years, and they have two sons, Giacomo and Gabriele. The couple later divorced, and Ezio has been involved in relationships since, most recently confirming a relationship with food influencer Nataly Ospina as of 2025. His son Gabriele, an actor and educator, founded Monaco's first English-speaking acting academy. In late 2024, Greggio became a grandfather to his grandson Leone, born to Giacomo and his wife Shereen Doummar.

Achievements

Throughout his distinguished career, Ezio Greggio has received numerous accolades. He has won 26 Telegatti awards for television excellence, a Platinum Telegatto for over 3,500 episodes of "Striscia la Notizia," and multiple TV Oscar Awards. In cinema, he earned the Nastro D'Argento for Best Supporting Actor, alongside other prestigious awards like the Flaiano Prize and Globo d'Oro. His festival contributions include founding the Monte-Carlo Comedy Film Festival and receiving multiple lifetime achievement and legend awards in film festivals across Italy and internationally.

Controversies

Ezio Greggio faced legal issues related to tax evasion due to maintaining his residency in Monaco to avoid Italian taxation, resulting in a fine in 2015. Additionally, he has been the subject of public debates and controversies linked to his social and political commentary, typical for someone in his role as a satirical news presenter. One notable incident involved a publicized disagreement over a foster care case, which sparked media attention and social media discussions.

Ezio Greggio Summary

Ezio Greggio remains an iconic figure in Italian entertainment with a career marked by innovative comedy, television success, and significant contributions to film and culture. From his early beginnings in local TV to becoming a nationally beloved satirical host, his work has influenced generations. Despite controversies, his legacy includes fostering comedy talent worldwide and an enduring presence in Italian media. His family life and continued engagement with the arts through his sons further highlight the breadth of his personal and professional impact.