5 Other Moments When Italians Moved the World to Tears
Super Bowl LVII gave us lots of emotions. Perhaps the most emotional moment occurred before the ball was even kicked off, as Philadelphia Eagles head coach and proud Italian American Nick Sirianni was moved to tears by Chris Stapleton’s rendition of the Star Spangled Banner. For the Italian American coach, it has been an emotional journey, rising from humble roots as a graduate assistant at Mount Union to the pinnacle of professional football.
Sirianni’s moment at Super Bowl LVII definitely ranks among the all-time feel-good moments in sports and entertainment. Our staff at America Domani compiled a list of all-time emotional moments featuring athletes and entertainers of Italian descent.
Joe DiMaggio’s Goodbye to Marilyn Monroe
Despite divorcing years earlier, Joe DiMaggio never forgot about his true love, Marilyn Monroe. When the legendary actress died prematurely in 1962, DiMaggio organized the funeral and was seen visibly moved to tears. More than 30 years later, when DiMaggio was on his deathbed, his finals words were rumored to be “I will finally get to see Marilyn”.
Frank Sinatra’s Friendship with Sammy Davis, Jr.
Along with Dean Martin, Joey Bishop and Peter Lawford, Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis, Jr. made history as founding members of The Rat Pack. Sinatra and Davis would form a bond that transcended friendship and turned into a lifelong brotherhood. Upon learning of Davis’ death, Sinatra said of Davis, “he was one of the finest human beings I’ve ever known in my life.”
Costantino Rocca at the 1995 British Open
Italian golfer Costantino Rocca was in an intense battle with American John Daly at the 1995 British Open. Needing a miracle on the 18th hole to send the competition into a playoff, Rocca pulled off the impossible, chipping in a shot against all odds. Rocca fell to the ground in disbelief in what was one of the most memorable feel-good moments in golf history.
Lady Gaga at the 2019 Academy Awards
After delivering one of the most memorable performances in film over the past decade for her role in “A Star is Born”, Lady Gaga’s acceptance speech for Best Original Song at the 2019 Academy Awards moved the world to tears. Gaga’s powerful speech implored young fans to focus on “not giving up.”
Sophia Loren “Grazie America”
When Sophia Loren was honored at the 1991 Academy Awards for a lifetime recognition, it was the culmination of the legendary Italian actress’ rags-to-riches story. In typical fashion, Loren moved the audience with her elegance and class. Her closing words were simple, poignant and left a lasting emotional impression on a generation of fans: “Grazie America”.