Gigi Proietti (born Luigi Proietti; 2 March 1940 – 2 November 2020) was an Italian actor, comedian, singer, television presenter, and director. He was renowned for his work across stage, film, and television, as well as for his contributions to Italian popular culture as a performer and voice actor.
Early life and education
Luigi Proietti was born in Rome, Italy. He studied acting at the Accademia Nazionale di Arte Drammatica Silvio d’Amico, graduating in 1960.
Career
Theatre
Proietti began his professional career in theatre, gaining prominence with the company of the playwright and director Vittorio Gassman. He achieved widespread acclaim for his one‑man shows, particularly the monologue “Il Signor Max” (1972), which established his reputation as a leading comic performer. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s he directed and starred in numerous stage productions, often blending comedy, music, and improvisation.
Film
Proietti appeared in over 70 films. Notable performances include roles in “Fantozzi” (1975), “Il Marchese del Grillo” (1981), “Amici miei – Atto III” (1985), and “Maledetto il giorno che t'ho incontrata” (1992). He received a David di Donatello nomination for Best Supporting Actor for “Il Marchese del Grillo” and won the Nastro d'Argento for Best Actor for “Maledetto il giorno che t'ho incontrata”.
Television
On television Proietti hosted and starred in variety and comedy programs such as “Il Mattatore” (1979–1980) and “Domenica In”. He also appeared in television films and series, including the popular comedy‑drama “La piovra” (1995).
Music and voice work
A trained singer, Proietti released several albums of classic Italian songs and performed in musical theatre. He provided the Italian voice for Mickey Mouse in the 1970s and early 1980s, and dubbed characters in various animated productions.
Personal life
Proietti married actress Giuliana Lojodice in 1976. The couple had two children: Luca Proietti, an actor, and Luigi Proietti, a musician. Proietti was known for his charitable activities, particularly supporting arts education and health‑care initiatives.
Awards and honors
- David di Donatello nomination, Best Supporting Actor (1981)
- Nastro d'Argento, Best Actor (1992)
- Premio Flaiano for Lifetime Achievement (2004)
- Knight of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic (1991)
Death
Gigi Proietti died on 2 November 2020 in Rome at the age of 80 after a brief illness. His death was widely reported in Italian and international media, and he was commemorated for his influence on contemporary Italian comedy and theatre.
