Author of a ‘dictionary of hypocrisies’ stemming from political correctness (‘E finsero felici e contenti’), the writer remains true to his ironic yet serious non-conformism: “Prudence would suggest observing developments over a longer period. If, however, we’re talking about ourselves, I don’t think the ‘woke’ movement has had much of an impact.”

The former minister and M5S Senate group leader has stepped down from his posts to focus on his inner well-being: “Whilst younger people and women discuss mental health quite naturally, adult men do not seek an inner journey, and this is a serious issue because we live in an age of anguish, which is worse than anxiety.”

A protégé of Camilleri at the National Academy of Dramatic Art and director of De Simone’s “Trianon Opera”, the playwright has secured permanent premises from the Campania Region for his Elementary School of Theatre: “Neurodivergent children are extraordinary teachers. Disability holds infinite possibilities that we must discover.”

Until the age of eighteen, he was an actor in high demand in film, television and advertising, well-known enough to feature in the crosswords of weekly magazines: “When I look back at the photos from that time, I can still hear Morricone’s music playing on set.” Interview

From the crisis at the Ponte Marconi greyhound track in Rome to its associated organisation, the Greyhound Adopt Centre Italy. “Anyone who wants a greyhound shouldn’t be doing it out of pity, but should demonstrate commitment and responsibility.” Interview

His mind and hands are devoted to an art form that has been in his family since 1877, when the first puppeteers of the Puzzo family established it in Syracuse: “These days, being a puppeteer also means being an entrepreneur. Passion alone isn’t enough; it takes nothing less than devotion.” Interview