The context of national mourning
The death of Pope Francis has deeply affected Italy and the entire world, generating a wave of emotion and respect. In this context, television programming has assumed a crucial role in reflecting the collective sentiment. Mediaset, one of the main Italian television networks, has chosen to maintain its schedule, raising questions and debates among the public and critics.
Mediaset's choice
The decision not to change the schedule, unlike Rai which broadcast the pontiff's funeral live, was justified by Mediaset as an editorial choice linked to its nature as a private and commercial network. This led to a series of contrasting reactions, with some viewers appreciating the continuity of the programming, while others perceived a lack of respect towards such a significant event.
The reactions of the public
Silvia Toffanin's words, during the broadcast of Verissimo, sparked a heated debate. The presenter tried to honor the memory of the pontiff, but many viewers noticed a certain artificiality in her speech. This led to