Andrea Innocenti Popular host and singer Paolo Belli will no longer be seen on the next edition of Ballando con le Stelle, airing Saturday, October 3. The decision stems from an agreement reached between Rai and the artist himself, who has been going through a difficult personal period in recent months.
Meanwhile, Milly Carlucci's show remains open to cast changes, with names like Barbara D'Urso and Francesca Fialdini at the center of rumors and expectations.
However, the main news concerns Belli's absence in front of the cameras, a decision that surprised many fans.
The accident that changed the plans
On July 13, 2026, in Cognento , in the Reggio Emilia countryside , Paolo Belli was involved in a serious bicycle accident. While pedaling, he collided with Alessandro Magnani, 41, who was crossing the street to his car.
Although Belli immediately provided first aid, Magnani died after approximately 40 hours of agony. The authorities have therefore placed Belli under investigation for vehicular homicide, a necessary step to begin the investigation.
Rai's decision and Belli's new role
In light of these facts, Rai's Prime Time Entertainment Department deemed Belli's presence on video inappropriate for the editorial context of the talent show.
The official statement emphasizes that the artist, while remaining a valuable artistic resource for Rai , will continue to contribute to the format behind the scenes, taking care of the technical and logistical aspects of the show.
The context of Dancing with the Stars without Belli in the video
For years, Belli has been a beloved face alongside Milly Carlucci, serving as a correspondent in the "Sala delle Stelle" and, in the most recent edition, participating as a contestant alongside Anastasia Kuzmina. His absence from the camera alters the usual dynamism of the program, but the structure remains intact thanks to the support of the rest of the staff.
More cast changes for the 2026 season
At the same time, the production team has confirmed the presence of Ivan Zazzaroni, Guillermo Mariotto , and Carolyn Smith on the judging panel . Barbara D'Urso may replace Selvaggia Lucarelli, while the role of treasure keeper, left vacant by Fabio Canino, could be filled by Francesca Fialdini or Simona Ventura. These changes are keeping audiences excited, despite Belli's absence in front of the camera.