Enrico Mentana has been a defining figure in Italian journalism for decades. Those who watch Italian news programs or follow Italian media often ask, how old is Enrico Mentana? His age matters because he continues to lead major broadcasts and maintain an influential presence in his field. Exploring his date of birth, career milestones, and public perception offers insight into both his longevity and enduring relevance.
Birth Date and Current Age
Enrico Mentana was born on January 15, 1955 in Milan, Italy. As of 2025, he is70 years old. In early 2025, he turned 70 an age at which many might step back, yet he remains actively directing major news programs and participating in journalistic initiatives.
Age Milestones Over Time
- In 1992: 37 years old when he founded TG5, Canale 5’s flagship newscast.
- In 2005: 50 years old when he created and hosted the talk show *Matrix*.
- In 2010: 55 years old when he took over as director of TG La7.
- In 2025: 70 years old and still leading TG La7 and managing the online news outlet *Open*.
Long Career Spanning Many Decades
Mentana began his journalism career in the early 1970s with *La Gazzetta dello Sport*, influenced by his father, Franco Mentana, a noted correspondent. In 1980, he joined RAI’s TG1 foreign affairs team, covering events like the 1981 royal wedding in London and high-profile interviews such as with Mehmet Ali Ağca’s mother.
In 1992, at age 37, he launched *TG5* and transformed it into a ratings powerhouse often surpassing RAI’s main news program TG1. Later, in 2005, he created the late-night news talk show *Matrix*, which he hosted until resigning in 2009 after editorial disagreements.
Since 2010, Mentana has served as director of TG La7, continuing to anchor major news editions and oversee editorial strategy. He also founded the online newspaper *Open* in December 2018, expanding his influence into digital media.
Public Perception and Influence at 70
Even at 70, Mentana retains a deeply respected position in Italian media. Known for his direct style and marathon news broadcasts, he is affectionately called Chicco by audiences. Fans admire how he continues to manage daily newscasts, breaking reports, and commentary with energy that exceeds many younger peers.
Rather than slowing down, he is viewed as an authoritative voice balanced, experienced, and unafraid to speak candidly about editorial independence and political pressures.
Peer Comparison
Mentana’s age aligns him with other media veterans of his generation. While some journalists retire in their 60s, he remains active behind the camera and behind the editorial desk. His longevity reflects both personal dedication and continued relevance in Italian public life.
Summary: Age Facts at a Glance
- Date of birth: January 15, 1955
- Hometown: Milan, Italy
- Current age (2025): 70 years
- Major roles: Founder of TG5, former creator of *Matrix*, director of TG La7, founder of *Open*
Why His Age Matters
The fact that Enrico Mentana is still directing flagship newscasts and overseeing digital outlets at age 70 is notable in an industry that often equates media presence with youth. His age reinforces a rare combination of experience, credibility, and resilience in Italian journalism. He represents continuity in an era of rapid media change and symbolizes adherence to journalistic principles.
So, how old is Enrico Mentana? Born on January 15, 1955, he is currently70 years old. With a career spanning more than 45 years starting at RAI, founding TG5 at 37, later launching *Matrix*, and directing TG La7 since 2010 he remains one of Italy’s most enduring journalistic figures. Far from slowing down, Mentana continues to shape news coverage across television and online platforms, demonstrating that age can coexist with professional vitality and public influence well into one’s seventh decade.