Can Yaman Lands at Sanremo: Confirmed as Star Guest for Festival’s Opening Night

The rumors that Can Yaman might grace the stage—or even co-host—Sanremo 2026 have been swirling for some time.

Ultimately, the international explosion of Sandokan has cemented his status as one of the industry's most sought-after actors. That success, coupled with the serendipitous 50th anniversary of the original Pirate of Malaysia broadcasts (which first aired between January and February 1976), reportedly convinced national broadcaster Rai and Artistic Director Carlo Conti to officially invite the Turkish heartthrob to the festival’s inaugural evening on February 24.

While the Artistic Director has remained tight-lipped regarding the details (save for a cryptic social media clue featuring himself dressed as Sandokan), the leak comes from a heavyweight source: Adnkronos, one of Italy’s most reliable press agencies.

This marks yet another accolade for Yaman, who is set to don the robes of the Salgari hero once again in late June for the filming of the series' second season. The show has already achieved massive success in Italy and, as of January 17, has been garnering acclaim in the United States via Disney+.

Credit must be shared beyond the Turkish lead to a top-tier ensemble cast, including Alessandro Preziosi as Yanez, Alanah Bloor as Marianna, and Ed Westwick, all masterfully directed by Jan Maria Michelini and Nicola Abbatangelo. Yaman’s presence on the Sanremo stage could also serve as the perfect venue to unveil the exact start date for production and give Italian viewers a tentative release window for the second season.

Past and Present on the Ariston Stage

There are unconfirmed whispers of an even grander moment: the potential presence of Kabir Bedi on the Sanremo stage, orchestrating an ideal "passing of the torch" between the two Sandokans—a meeting of the past and the present.

Yaman deserves immense credit for breathing his own soul into Salgari’s pirate, avoiding the trap of mere emulation. He delivered a deeply personal interpretation, the result of five years of rigorous study which included relocating to Rome, mastering the language, and training extensively in horsemanship and saber fighting.