The upcoming 26th season of the popular Italian television talent show Amici introduces a major structural expansion by integrating competitive sports disciplines alongside its traditional singing and dancing curriculum, according to official promotional material released by the production.
Introduction of Judo, Boxing, and Roller Skating
The primary format update for Amici 26 centers on the inclusion of three distinct athletic categories: judo, boxing, and artistic roller skating. Promotional content distributed across official social media channels highlights these additions beneath the tagline “Il talento non ha confini” (“Talent knows no boundaries”), accompanied by visual themes emphasizing dedication, passion, and sacrifice. While the core focus of the academy has long remained vocal performance and choreography, historical precedents in the program include acting instruction introduced two decades ago and a single season featuring artistic gymnastics.
Faculty Changes and Coaching Staff Rumors
The coaching roster undergoes notable shifts for the new season, balancing confirmed returns with ongoing industry speculation. Longtime instructors Alessandra Celentano and Rudy Zerbi are confirmed to return to the faculty, while Lorella Cuccarini is anticipated to resume her teaching role. Conversely, instructor Anna Pettinelli has officially departed the program. Speculation surrounding other potential departures involves professional instructors Emanuel Lo and Veronica Peparini, though official announcements regarding their status remain pending. Additional names linked to potential coaching roles include professional dancer Angelo Madonia and mixed martial arts personality Alessio Sakara, widely known from his work on Tu Si Que Vales. Industry reports also suggest that the traditional title of professor might be rebranded as “commissari tecnici” (technical commissioners).
Amadeus Joins the Production
Television host Amadeus is slated to join Amici 26 in a prominent capacity following public statements confirming his involvement. Following his prior appearances as a judge during the evening phase (Serale) of the show, negotiations led by production figures secured his return to the broadcast environment. Concurrently, other high-profile figures have addressed casting rumors regarding the faculty; singer Noemi has been mentioned in media reports regarding potential coaching positions, whereas actress and entertainer Ambra Angiolini publicly dismissed claims suggesting she would join the instructional team.
Potential Audition Candidates and Casting Shifts
Casting discussions for the incoming student roster have highlighted several notable musicians who participated in recent auditions, including Matteo Romano, Will, and Shari—artists who have previously competed at the Sanremo Music Festival. Production sources note that participation in auditions does not guarantee enrollment in the school, and the official student roster has not yet been finalized. This approach reflects a broader openness toward accepting artists who have already published commercial music or gained professional industry experience, diverging from the traditional focus on developing entirely unestablished performers.
Broadcast Information and Schedule Status
As preparations continue, the initial recording sessions and premiere broadcast dates for Amici 26 have experienced slight scheduling adjustments. Viewers seeking to follow the daily updates, daytime specials, and weekend episodes can access the broadcast through traditional television networks on Mediaset platforms, alongside digital streaming options available via official web portals and dedicated media applications.
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