Silvio Berlusconi, the controversial former Prime Minister of Italy, has passed away at the age of 86 after battling leukemia. Known for his scandalous “Bunga Bunga” parties, Berlusconi was a billionaire businessman who revolutionized Italy’s media landscape and left a lasting impact on its politics, despite facing numerous legal and sexual scandals. His spokesperson confirmed his death this morning.
Berlusconi had been suffering from leukemia for some time and had recently developed a lung infection. He was admitted to the San Raffaele hospital in Milan last week for pre-planned tests related to his condition. While he did not have an official role in the government, his political party, Forza Italia, was part of the right-wing coalition led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Berlusconi’s death is likely to create instability in Italian politics in the months to come.
In addition to the political sphere, Berlusconi’s business empire also faces an uncertain future. It is unclear who will take full control of his media company, MFE, after his passing, although his eldest daughter Marina is expected to play a prominent role. Two of his daughters, Barbara and Eleonora, were seen outside the hospital on Monday, showing their support.
The news of Berlusconi’s death has been met with mourning from members of the Italian government. Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini praised him as “a great man and a great Italian” in a statement, while Defence Minister Guido Crosetto wrote on Twitter that his passing marked the end of an era. The AC Milan football club, which flourished under Berlusconi’s ownership and won numerous titles, paid tribute to him, calling him “unforgettable.”
Carlo Ancelotti, a former player for AC Milan and a successful coach, also expressed his sadness at Berlusconi’s death. He described him as an ironic, loyal, intelligent, and sincere man, emphasizing the impact he had on his career.
Berlusconi served as the prime minister of Italy three times, from 1994 to 1995, 2001 to 2006, and 2008 to 2011. His health had been declining in recent years, with heart surgery in 2016 and multiple hospitalizations, including one for COVID-19. Despite his health struggles, Berlusconi remained active in politics as a senator until the end.
Berlusconi’s larger-than-life personality and self-made success resonated with many Italians, much like Donald Trump’s appeal in the United States. However, he was not without his critics, who accused him of tax evasion and using his media empire to further his political career and protect his business interests. He was involved in numerous legal battles throughout his life, including the infamous “Bunga Bunga” party scandals, which were only concluded in 2023.
Despite retiring from public view in recent months, Berlusconi remained president of Forza Italia and maintained his friendship with Russian President Vladimir Putin, causing tensions with Prime Minister Meloni, a supporter of Ukraine.
Berlusconi’s health issues became more apparent as he aged, but he took pride in his appearance and maintained a youthful image. However, his perpetual tan, hair transplants, and relationships with much younger women became subjects of ridicule. Despite the controversies surrounding him, Berlusconi seemed untouchable for many years.
Berlusconi began his political career in the 1990s after establishing himself as a media and real estate mogul. He presented himself as a modern success story and won his first election with the Forza Italia movement in 1994. Although his first tenure as prime minister was short-lived, he staged a comeback in 2001, promising jobs and economic growth. He served until 2006 and then returned to office from 2008 to 2011, making him Italy’s longest-serving post-war premier. However, the financial crisis forced him to resign as Italy faced economic pressures.
Berlusconi’s legacy is deeply divisive in Italy. Supporters view him as a capable and charismatic leader who elevated Italy’s position globally. Critics, on the other hand, see him as a populist who used political power to enrich himself and his businesses, posing a threat to democracy.
Despite the controversies and scandals that surrounded his life, Silvio Berlusconi left a significant mark on Italy’s political and media landscape, and his passing marks the end of an era.
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