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The first edition of the Italian Global Series Festival officially began last weekend between Rimini and Riccione, running until June 28. Conceived and organized by APA (Italian Audiovisual Producers Association) with the support of the Ministry of Culture, the event is curated by renowned critic and journalist Marco Spagnoli.

This brand-new festival from Italy’s Romagna region is dedicated to celebrating one of the most beloved genres among global audiences—TV series. With a strong international scope, the Italian Global Series Festival aims to become a hub for creators, talent, producers, and viewers to come together and share their passion for compelling storytelling.

The festival kicked off on Saturday, June 21 at Corte degli Agostiniani in Rimini with one of its most anticipated events: I Cesaroni – Il Ritorno (The Return), marking the comeback of one of Italy’s most iconic TV families series. The launch event featured a panel with Claudio Amendola, longtime star and now director of the revival, joined by the full cast—including both original and new members. 
Immediately after, at 10 PM at the same venue, the audience was treated to the world premiere of the first two episodes of Hype, a gritty coming-of-age series that follows three aspiring young rappers from Milan’s QT8 neighborhood. The story dives deep into themes of ambition, friendship, and the challenges of sudden fame. The show also features the artistic collaboration of rapper Ernia. The cast and creatives attended included Lorenzo Aloi, Martina Sini, Gabriele Careddu, Luigi Bruno, Luka Zunic, and directors Fabio Mollo, Domenico Croce, and Leonardo Ferrara.