The family of Italian opera singer Luciano Pavarotti has condemned the use of his voice in a political video by Roberto Vanacci, leader of the far-right Future of the Nation party, reports the Italian news agency. Ansa.
The relatives of the artist, who died in 2007, have stated that they have never allowed the use of his voice, name, or image in this context.
Vanacci, a former general and member of the European Parliament, posted a video on social media created with the help of artificial intelligence. In the video, he appears surrounded by people pointing guns at him. In the background, Pavarotti's voice is heard performing the famous aria "Nessun dorma" from Giacomo Puccini's opera "Turandot", in particular its famous final phrase: "At dawn I will conquer."
At the end of the clip, Vanacci recites his political slogan, "It doesn't matter to me," and addresses critics, saying, "See you at dawn." In the post, he lists the accusations against him, including xenophobia, homophobia, sexism, and ties to Moscow, including the description of "Moscow's Trojan horse." The clip became a response to criticism of Vanacci, including after a Financial Times article called him Moscow's "Trojan horse" in Italy.
"We have never given permission for the use of Luciano Pavarotti's voice, name or person," his family said in a statement. The singer's relatives also stressed that they "resolutely distance themselves" from any association of his name with political messages, positions or initiatives.
Vanacci is popular with right-wing voters for his tough stance on migration and security. This year he founded the Future of the Nation party, which, according to recent polls, has already overtaken the junior partners in Giorgi Meloni's ruling coalition, the League and Forza Italia.
