Francesco Scianna

Francesco Scianna (born 25 March 1982 in Palermo) is an Italian actor whose career spans stage, cinema, and television. He began his artistic journey in 1997, performing a recital of Salvatore Quasimodo's poems titled “CEI,” which marked his early immersion in the theatrical world. After years of honing his craft, he earned a degree from the prestigious National Academy of Dramatic Art Silvio D'Amico, positioning himself among Italy's most disciplined performers. His screen debut arrived in 2002 with Cristina Comencini's Il più bel giorno della mia vita, a modest yet significant entry that introduced his nuanced presence to film audiences. Subsequent roles in Mario Martone's L'odore del sangue (2004) and the 2007 thriller L'uomo di vetro expanded his repertoire, showcasing his ability to navigate diverse genres. His breakthrough came in 2009 when director Giuseppe Tornatore cast him as Peppino Torrenuova, the male lead in the critically acclaimed Baarìa. The film's international success, including an Oscar submission and Golden Globe nomination, cemented Scianna's status as a leading figure in contemporary Italian cinema. In the following years he tackled complex characters, such as the notorious gangster Francis Turatello in Michele Placido's Vallanzasca - Gli angeli del male (2010), and continued to appear in both cinematic and television projects like Le cose che restano and Ti amo troppo per dirtelo. Beyond his on‑screen achievements, Scianna remains devoted to his theatrical roots, frequently returning to the stage to explore classic and contemporary works. His dedication to craft, combined with a charismatic screen presence, continues to earn him respect from peers and audiences alike, solidifying his place as a versatile and enduring talent in the Italian entertainment industry.