Actor Stanley Tucci commented that the world seems to be shifting “very right,” highlighting issues faced by LGBTQ+ couples in countries like Italy, where adoption and surrogacy are not permitted.
In an interview with Sky News, Tucci talked about his cooking show, reflecting on Italian society and the representation of diverse families, including those within the LGBTQ community.
He mentioned, “We wanted to tell stories about a gay couple with kids because we thought it would be a funny and engaging narrative, whether through adoption or surrogacy.”
Tucci expressed his confusion about the current political direction, stating that the world seems to be leaning far right.
“I find it puzzling, honestly, the way many places are moving towards extreme right ideologies.”
He added, “We’re not the same, right? We have our differences, so I’m unsure what the real issue is.”
As noted by Sky News, Italy allowed private unions for same-sex couples starting in 2006, but it does not permit adoption.
This law provides many rights and financial protections similar to those of heterosexual couples, yet it still denies LGBT+ couples the ability to adopt or access IVF.
In 2023, the Italian government also extended a ban on surrogacy, including arrangements made abroad, with penalties that may involve imprisonment up to two years and fines approaching 1 million euros.
Tucci expressed concerns about these laws, especially given the declining fertility rates in Italy.
“Families gather for traditional Sunday meals with grandparents and children, but the government claims they aren’t families,” he remarked.
“It’s intriguing because Italy prides itself on family values, yet it faces decreasing birth rates.”
