Alvaro Vitali, the iconic Italian actor and comedian best known for his portrayal of the mischievous "Pierino," passed away this afternoon in Rome. He was 75.

Vitali rose to fame for his memorable roles in the genre of Italian sexy comedies, where his comedic timing and expressive personality made him a household name. Born on February 3, 1950, he had been hospitalized for two weeks due to a recurring bout of bronchopneumonia, according to his ex-wife, singer-songwriter Stefania Corona, who spoke to the press just days ago.

Vitali's career began thanks to legendary director Federico Fellini, who discovered him during an audition. He made his film debut in 1969 with a small part in Fellini Satyricon, followed by appearances in I clowns (1971) and Roma (1972), where he played a vaudeville tap dancer-a role he reprised in Polvere di stelle (1973) alongside Alberto Sordi and Monica Vitti. He also appeared in Fellini's Amarcord (1973), acting with Ciccio Ingrassia.

Over the course of his career, Vitali starred in more than 150 films. When the popularity of sexy comedies waned, he stepped away from the spotlight for a time, only to reemerge on television in Striscia la notizia, where he impersonated Ferrari team principal Jean Todt and other characters.

In 2006, he joined the third season of the reality show La fattoria but had to withdraw due to asthma complications.

Vitali's death marks the end of an era for a generation of Italian filmgoers who grew up laughing at his irreverent humor and unforgettable characters.