"I saw my grandfather Fabrizio De André dead, today with his portrait I speak to him.

Alice De André, the granddaughter of Italian singer-songwriter Fabrizio De André, has shared deeply personal reflections on her relationship with her late grandfather through a recent theatrical performance titled Alice (non canta) De André. In a poignant moment during the show, she described seeing her nonno dead and conversing with his portrait, expressing both affection and admiration. She referred to her father, Cristiano De André, as “una testa di co, ma non è cattivo,” highlighting their complex family dynamics. Born in 1999, just months after the death of her grandfather, Alice was too young to have known him personally. Yet she claims to have always felt his presence in her life. She recalls growing up in L’Agnata, a village near Genoa, where her parents often spoke of her nonno. According to her, he remained present in her mind even after his passing. “I had my first three years of life in L’Agnata,” she told the Corriere della Sera. “My parents say I saw my grandfather.” She describes how she would place a cushion beside her at the television, as though making space for him, and ensure there was a plate set aside for him at the table. The emotional connection between Alice and her nonno has become central to her artistic expression. Her theatrical work explores not only her identity but also the enduring influence of the man who shaped her early memories. The play serves as a meditation on memory, legacy, and the ways in which love and loss continue to shape one’s sense of self. Through this performance, Alice seeks to understand herself while honoring the figure who, despite never having met him, continues to occupy a special place in her heart. Her relationship with her father, Cristiano De André, adds another layer to the narrative. Known for his controversial personality, Cristiano has been the subject of public scrutiny throughout his life. Alice’s remarks, calling him “una testa di co, ma non è cattivo”, suggest a mix of frustration and affection. While she does not deny the challenges they have faced, she frames them within the context of a complicated yet loving bond. This dynamic reflects broader tensions within the De André family, particularly given the public nature of Fabrizio’s legacy and the ongoing impact of his music and activism. Fabrizio De André, who died in 2011, left behind a rich body of work that continues to resonate with audiences. His songs often addressed social justice, human rights, and personal introspection, themes that have clearly influenced his granddaughter. Alice’s artistic journey appears to mirror these concerns, suggesting a continuation of the values and ideals that defined her grandfather’s life and career. As Alice continues to explore her heritage through art, her words and actions offer insight into the lasting power of familial bonds and the ways in which memory can transcend time. Her performance stands as a tribute not only to her nonno but also to the complex relationships that define her life. Through her storytelling, she gives voice to emotions that many might struggle to articulate, offering a glimpse into the quiet strength of those who carry the past forward.