Andrea Pucci has stepped down from co-hosting one evening of the 2026 Sanremo Music Festival, which is set for February 26, following a controversy regarding his appointment by artistic director Carlo Conti. The comedian disclosed his decision in a lengthy Instagram post that has since been deleted, in which he claimed getting insults and threats, some of which were directed at his family. In the statement, Pucci complained of a "negative media wave" that had destroyed his public trust, saying that he no longer believed it was possible to cooperate amicably. "The insults, threats, and epithets he received are incomprehensible and unacceptable", he stated, thanking Carlo Conti and RAI for the opportunity and emphasizing that his work has always centered on providing joy and smiles. The comedian also denied accusations of homophobia and racism, claiming that "in 2026, the term fascist should no longer exist". Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also commented on the situation, expressing support for the artist and calling the climate of harassment around him "unacceptable".