Enrico De Martino, Father of Stefano De Martino, Dies at 61
Naples, January 19 – Enrico De Martino, father of the famous Italian television presenter Stefano De Martino, passed away today, January 19, at the age of 61. He had been battling a serious illness for some time, and his condition had reportedly worsened recently. De Martino died at his home in Torre Annunziata, a town in the province of Naples.
A Life Dedicated to Dance and Family
Enrico De Martino was a former professional ballet dancer, a passion he evidently passed on to his son, Stefano. His last public appearance was in November at the Salerno Danza Award, where he received a career achievement award. His dancing career, however, came to an early end at the age of 25 when his then-girlfriend, who would later become his wife, announced she was pregnant with Stefano. From that moment, Enrico De Martino left the world of dance to seek other employment to support his growing family.
Stefano De Martino often spoke about his father’s past, revealing that Enrico was once part of the ballet corps at the prestigious San Carlo Theatre in Naples. Beyond his artistic pursuits, Enrico also worked at his maternal grandfather’s Bar Stella in Torre Annunziata. This very bar later inspired the name of a television program hosted by his son, Stefano.
Initially, Enrico De Martino balanced his artistic career with work. In recent years, he managed several catering businesses. However, for several months, he had been fighting a severe illness that ultimately claimed his life.
A Close Bond and a Legacy of Love
Stefano De Martino frequently shared stories about his close relationship with his father. Enrico was particularly devoted to his grandson, Santiago, the son of Stefano and Belen Rodriguez. Interestingly, Enrico had initially tried to discourage young Stefano from pursuing a career in dance. “He didn’t want me to dance,” Stefano once recounted to Bruno Vespa.
Since yesterday afternoon, social media has been flooded with messages of condolence for the De Martino family and Maria Rosaria Scassillo, Stefano’s mother. Friends and acquaintances remember Enrico as a kind, humble, and dedicated individual. “Your smile will remain indelible in the memory of those who knew you as a boy and those who saw you grow into a man,” wrote a friend named Giuseppe. Franco recalled their motorcycle rides: “As a youngster, how many things we did with that Cagiva 125, rest in peace, wherever you are.”
Many fans of Stefano De Martino and those who knew Enrico have shared their thoughts. Mariateresa described him as “a humble and decent person.” Rosanna added, “serious and professional, I was fortunate to spend a part of my life with him when he was a good dancer at the Torre Annunziata dance school.” Dario remembered him as “a good man and a great worker,” while Lia depicted him as “a kind, simple, and discreet person.”
The passing of Enrico De Martino marks a significant loss for his family and the community of Torre Annunziata, leaving behind a legacy of passion, dedication, and love.
