Stefano Righi discusses his Portrayal in the 883 television series

Stefano Righi Confronts His Onscreen Portrayal in the 883 Television Series Stefano Righi, better known as Johnson Righeira of the 1980s pop duo Righeira, watched an actor portray his early music career for the first time on screen when he faced the premiere of the television series dedicated to the band 883.

The 66-year-old Turin-born singer, whose hit tracks include “Let’s go to the beach”, admitted he initially felt hesitation and modesty before viewing his character, played onscreen by actor Ruben Aprea in the production titled “North South West East”.

Hesitation Before the Screen

Righi received a password-protected link to preview the episode but delayed watching it for several days out of apprehension. He later attended the presentation gala held at the Anteo in Milan, where he met the cast members. Reflecting on the experience, he noted that seeing an actor portray a living person is unusual, remarking that such tributes typically occur postumously.

Evaluating the Onscreen Narrative

While reviewing the storyline, Righi noted that the plot is very romanticized, but the spirit was that (substantially correct in its overall spirit). He pointed out minor discrepancies, such as the depiction of their producers, the La Bionda brothers, as being from Turin rather than Milan, and the initial timeline showing only himself before his partner Michael joined later.

Connections to Veneto and Luca Zaia

Having lived in the Veneto region for several years, Righi maintains lasting ties to the area, where his musical collaborator Michael still resides. Among his memories from those years, including Verona’s Festivalbar nights, is an acquaintance with Luca Zaia from their days frequenting discos during the house music era.

Road Trips, Fireworks and Musical Roots

The television series also explores the journey toward maturity for Max Pezzali and Mauro Repetto, portrayed by Elia Nuzzolo and Matteo Oscar Giuggioli. Driven by record producer Claudio Cecchetto, interpreted by Roberto Zibetti, the band seeks an artistic shift to secure their chart success. Accompanied by longtime friends Cisco, played by Davide Calgaro from Viale Bligny, and Nemorino, played by Riccardo Armiento, the group embarks on a trip in an old car. In the actual events inspiring the episode, the destination was the Mayerling discotheque in Castellar Guidobono, Alessandria, rather than a Milanese New Year’s Eve party. During the drive, Cisco navigates with paper road maps, leading to a detour that takes them far beyond Pavia. Alongside these travels, the group negotiates with a fireworks entrepreneur named Ignazio, known as Coregone, while dealing with erratic cell service and a stalled vehicle. The chaotic scene features ostrich-filled surroundings and fireworks synchronized with the Scorpions’ track Rock You Like a Hurricane.