TV chef Giusina Battaglia is mourning the sudden death of her husband Sergio, who passed away over the weekend. No cause of death has been confirmed yet. The news was announced live on daytime TV by host Antonella Clerici during the broadcast of È sempre mezzogiorno on Monday, October 19, where Giusina is a regular chef.
Announcement on Live TV
Antonella Clerici was visibly distressed as she shared the news with viewers. "Once again I have to open this show with news that concerns us all, but it's not nice…" she said. "We are a family, and we tell you everything that happens to us… This weekend Giusina Battaglia suffered a very serious bereavement… Her husband passed away suddenly…"
The death was so sudden that just one day earlier, Giusina had posted a carefree and happy Instagram update. Alongside pictures of herself with the couple's 10-year-old twin sons Marco and Luca, she wrote: "The happiness of a weekend together is incomparable to anything else. Out for dinner this evening. And it's always a magical moment."
Marriage and Family Life
Sergio, who was a cameraman, and Giusina had been married since 2010 and shared twin sons Marco and Luca. Although he was a constant point of reference in her personal and professional life, Giusina had often said he did not like social media and preferred to stay out of the spotlight. Despite that, he was happy to help his wife in her efforts to "launch" herself on social media by sharing recipes from traditional Sicilian cuisine.
Giusina, who previously worked as a journalist and press officer, came up with the idea during Covid and quickly gained a large following on social media and later on television channels including The Food Network. She began hosting her show Giusina in Cucina on the channel in May 2020. The show is filmed using two smartphones, and Sergio acted as her videographer for the project.
Support from Fans
The culinary expert received an outpouring of support and condolences from fans upon learning the sad news. One fan wrote: "Big hug to you 3. I just watched Antonella's video, I was shocked. Now you're part of my everyday life. I'm so sorry. I hug you tight even if we are far. RIP." Another added: "Truly terrible and sad news. Sending a hug to Giusina and her children, and my deepest condolences."
A third commented: "My condolences, Giusina. I am so sorry for the loss of your husband—it's hard to believe he's gone at such a young age." A fourth shared: "Sending a hug to you and your children. Sending a big hug from Trentino as well. Giusina, you have found a place in our hearts, and we are holding you close in our thoughts." A fifth reflected: "Oh my God, I am so incredibly sorry. My condolences to the entire family."
