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'Big Brother' Star Luca Calvani Marries Partner Alessandro Franchini, Marking Personal Milestone Three Years After Coming Out
READ TIME: 15 MIN.
On September 29, 2025, Luca Calvani, a well-known Italian television personality and former Big Brother contestant, married his partner of nine years, Alessandro Franchini, in a private ceremony that has drawn attention both within Italy and internationally. The event marks a significant personal milestone for Calvani, who publicly came out as gay three years ago, and stands as a symbol of progress for LGBTQ+ visibility in a country where same-sex unions have only recently gained legal recognition. The couple’s relationship began in 2016, but it was not until 2022 that they decided to make their partnership official, reflecting both personal growth and changing social attitudes in Italy.
Luca Calvani first rose to prominence as a contestant on the Italian edition of Big Brother, a reality show that has often served as a platform for public figures to share their personal stories with a national audience. In 2022, Calvani made headlines when he came out publicly, joining a small but growing number of Italian celebrities who have openly identified as LGBTQ+. His decision to share his identity was met with widespread support from fans and fellow public figures, signaling a shift in Italy’s cultural landscape, which has historically been more conservative on issues of sexuality and gender identity.
Calvani and Franchini’s relationship, which began in 2016, was kept relatively private for several years, a decision that Calvani has described as both personal and protective, given the media landscape in Italy. The couple’s decision to formalize their union in 2025 reflects not only their commitment to each other but also a broader trend of increasing acceptance and legal recognition for same-sex couples in Italy.
Details about the wedding itself remain private, but the news of the ceremony was confirmed by multiple sources, including international LGBTQ+ news outlets and social media updates from those close to the couple. The event has been celebrated as a positive step for LGBTQ+ representation in Italian media and society, where public figures who are openly gay or in same-sex relationships remain relatively rare.
The marriage also comes at a time when Italy continues to navigate the complexities of LGBTQ+ rights. While civil unions for same-sex couples have been legal since 2016, full marriage equality—including adoption rights and recognition of parental status—remains a subject of political and social debate. Calvani and Franchini’s union, therefore, is not only a personal celebration but also a public statement about the visibility and legitimacy of LGBTQ+ relationships in contemporary Italy.
The news of Calvani’s marriage has been met with an outpouring of support from fans and LGBTQ+ advocates, both in Italy and abroad. Social media platforms have seen an increase in celebratory messages, with many noting the importance of such high-profile events in normalizing same-sex relationships and challenging stereotypes. The visibility of public figures like Calvani is seen as crucial in fostering greater acceptance, particularly in countries where LGBTQ+ rights are still evolving.
In Italy, the reaction has been mixed but generally positive, reflecting the country’s gradual but noticeable shift toward greater inclusivity. While some conservative voices have criticized the publicity surrounding the event, the majority of public commentary has been supportive, highlighting the changing attitudes among younger Italians and the growing influence of LGBTQ+ advocacy groups.
Italy’s journey toward LGBTQ+ equality has been marked by both progress and persistent challenges. The legalization of civil unions in 2016 was a landmark moment, but activists continue to push for full marriage equality, anti-discrimination protections, and greater societal acceptance. High-profile weddings like Calvani and Franchini’s serve as reminders of the lived experiences behind these political debates, putting human faces to the statistics and legal battles.
The visibility of LGBTQ+ couples in media and popular culture is increasingly recognized as a powerful tool for social change. When public figures like Calvani share their stories, they not only affirm their own identities but also provide representation for others who may be struggling with acceptance in their own lives. This is particularly significant in Italy, where the Catholic Church retains considerable influence and where discussions about sexuality and family structure can still be contentious.
As Luca Calvani and Alessandro Franchini begin this new chapter in their lives, their story is likely to resonate far beyond the borders of Italy. For LGBTQ+ communities worldwide, such milestones are a reminder of both the progress that has been made and the work that remains. In Italy, the couple’s marriage is a testament to the power of visibility and the importance of living authentically, even in the face of societal pressures.
The celebration of their union is not just a personal triumph but a collective step forward for LGBTQ+ rights and representation. As more public figures choose to live openly and share their journeys, the hope is that acceptance will continue to grow, paving the way for future generations to live without fear or prejudice.
