Riccardo Stimolo: Social Media Controversies and Struggles on Amici 25

Riccardo Stimolo, a singer on the 25th edition of the talent show Amici, has faced significant scrutiny following a series of controversies involving a gesture interpreted as homophobic and subsequent tensions with fellow contestant Alessio Di Ponzio.

The conflict intensified in February 2026, when Stimolo was accused of making a vulgar gesture directed at Di Ponzio, a dancer on the program. The incident sparked widespread criticism across social media and among viewers of the show’s daytime broadcasts.

Apologies and Internal Conflict

Following the backlash, Stimolo issued an apology to the entire class. According to reports from February 20, 2026, the singer attempted to explain his behavior by referencing his own childhood experiences of being marginalized.

Despite the apology, the situation remained tense. On February 23, 2026, Stimolo confronted Di Ponzio, expressing frustration that the dancer had not offered him more support during the public fallout.

Mi è arrivata la mer*a addosso questa volta. Hai visto anche tu i commenti per il gesto che io ho fatto ma non c’entravi niente tu. Sai anche tu che questa cosa non c’entra niente con l’omofobia, però non sei mai venuto tu da me e non capisco perché

Riccardo Stimolo

In the exchange, Stimolo claimed that the gesture was not motivated by homophobia, a point he asserted Di Ponzio was already aware of.

Public and Production Response

The reaction from the audience remained critical. Some viewers questioned the sincerity of Stimolo’s heart-to-heart moments during the daytime episodes, noting that he did not sufficiently apologize for the specific nature of the gesture.

The controversy coincided with reports that Stimolo was the only singer in the competition who had not received professional proposals, reflecting a potential impact on his industry standing. His absence from certain daytime segments also led to speculation regarding possible disciplinary actions or expulsion from the competition.

The situation has been further complicated by the resurgence of older social media posts and previous errors attributed to Stimolo, which have returned to public attention as the competition nears a critical elimination phase.

The events highlight the ongoing tension between the personal growth narratives often promoted by Amici and the immediate consequences of behavioral lapses in the public eye, particularly concerning issues of discrimination and social conduct.