Awkward R Pronunciation and 'Eye-Squinting' During Broadcast... Italian Famous MC Faces Racism Controversy

Hosts are squinting their eyes. Photo by Diet Prada Instagram capture

[Asia Economy Reporter Jumi Lee] Famous Italian TV program hosts have sparked controversy by making derogatory facial expressions toward East Asians on air.

On the 13th (local time), during the Italian current affairs satire program 'Striscia la Notizia,' hosts Gerry Scotti and Michelle Hunziker introduced the local public broadcaster RAI's Beijing bureau in China while making slant-eye gestures. They also repeatedly mispronounced 'RAI' as 'LAI' in a clumsy manner.

Pulling the corners of the eyes upward or downward with fingers is a typical racist act that contains derogatory meaning toward East Asians. The strange pronunciation of 'RAI' also reflects a prejudice that East Asians cannot properly pronounce the 'R' sound, which is a belittling act.

According to local television data company Auditel, about 4.7 million people watched the program at that time.

The problematic scene spread on local social networking services (SNS) through the fashion industry whistleblower Instagram account 'Diet Prada' and others. Critical responses such as "disappointing" and "ashamed as an Italian" poured in on SNS.

As public criticism grew, Michelle Hunziker apologized on Instagram on the 14th. She said, "I am very sorry if I hurt anyone," and added, "I realize that people are sensitive about their rights at this time. It was a mistake not to consider this."

Hunziker is a well-known actress and model locally. She is also well known as the wife of Tomaso Trussardi, chairman of the local fashion brand Trussardi.

Gerry Scotti is also a recognized figure who served as a member of the Chamber of Deputies for the Socialist Party. Both are known for leading efforts to advance LGBTQ rights and women's rights.