Patrizia Reggiani entered Milan’s elite social world as a young woman with ambition and left it decades later as one of the most infamous figures in modern Italian criminal history. Best known as the former wife of Maurizio Gucci, heir to the Gucci fashion empire, her life became the subject of global fascination after his 1995 murder and her subsequent conviction for arranging the crime. This article presents a complete, fact-based account of Patrizia Reggiani’s life — from her early years and marriage into the Gucci family to the trial, prison sentence, and her life after release — told with verified records and a clear historical timeline.
Quick Bio
- Birth Name: Patrizia Martinelli
- Known As: Patrizia Reggiani
- Date of Birth: December 2, 1948
- Age: 77 (as of 2026)
- Birthplace: Vignola, Emilia-Romagna, Italy
- Nationality: Italian
- Known For: Marriage to Maurizio Gucci; conviction in his murder case
- Marital Status: Divorced
- Children: Two daughters
Early Life & Background
Patrizia Reggiani was born as Patrizia Martinelli in Vignola, Italy, on December 2, 1948. Her early life was marked by modest means, and she grew up without knowing her biological father. When she was still young, her mother married a wealthy businessman, Ferdinando Reggiani, who later adopted her and gave her his surname.
This adoption dramatically altered the course of her life. With new financial security came access to private education, luxury, and Milan’s high-society circles. From that point forward, Reggiani’s identity became closely tied to wealth, status, and social visibility — elements that would later play a central role in her public image.
Meeting Maurizio Gucci & Marriage
Patrizia met Maurizio Gucci in the early 1970s. Maurizio was the grandson of Guccio Gucci, founder of the Gucci fashion house, and the son of Rodolfo Gucci. Their relationship developed quickly, despite opposition from members of the Gucci family who reportedly viewed Patrizia with suspicion.
The couple married in 1972. Through this marriage, Patrizia entered one of the most powerful fashion dynasties in the world. She became a visible presence in Milanese society, often appearing at elite events, wearing designer fashion, and living in luxury properties.
They had two daughters together, Alessandra and Allegra Gucci. For years, Patrizia appeared fully embedded in the Gucci lifestyle — but tensions within the marriage and the family business were already growing.
Separation, Divorce & Financial Conflict
In 1985, after 13 years of marriage, Maurizio Gucci left Patrizia. The separation marked a turning point in her life. While the divorce was not finalized until 1994, the emotional and financial strain between the two intensified during this period.
As part of the divorce settlement, Patrizia received a substantial annual alimony payment. However, tensions escalated when Maurizio sold his remaining stake in Gucci and began planning a future with another partner. Prosecutors would later argue that these developments fueled resentment and fear of financial loss.
One year after the divorce was finalized, Maurizio Gucci was dead.
The Murder of Maurizio Gucci
On March 27, 1995, Maurizio Gucci was shot and killed outside his office in Milan. The murder stunned Italy and attracted international media attention due to the Gucci name and the apparent lack of an immediate suspect.
For nearly two years, the case remained unsolved. Behind the scenes, investigators traced a network of intermediaries that eventually led back to Patrizia Reggiani.
Arrest, Trial & Conviction
In January 1997, Patrizia Reggiani was arrested and charged with arranging the murder of her former husband. Prosecutors alleged that she hired a hitman through the help of her close friend Giuseppina “Pina” Auriemma.
The trial revealed evidence including financial records, witness testimony, and intercepted communications. In 1998, Patrizia Reggiani was convicted of commissioning the murder and sentenced to 29 years in prison. The sentence was later reduced to 26 years on appeal.
Italian media gave her the nickname “La Vedova Nera” — the Black Widow — a label that followed her for decades.
Prison Years & Refusal of Early Release
Reggiani served her sentence in Italian prisons for nearly two decades. During her incarceration, she reportedly refused opportunities for early release that required employment, stating she had never worked in her life and did not intend to begin.
In 2000, she survived a suicide attempt while in prison. The incident further deepened public fascination with her psychological state and the dramatic arc of her life.
Release & Life After Prison
In October 2016, after serving approximately 18 years, Patrizia Reggiani was released from prison under Italy’s early-release provisions. She returned to live in Milan, largely out of the public spotlight.
After her release, she reportedly worked for a jewelry company — marking one of the first known instances of formal employment in her life. Public appearances since then have been rare.
Children & Family Relationships
Patrizia Reggiani has two daughters, Alessandra and Allegra Gucci. Both inherited their father’s estate and have maintained private lives. They have publicly criticized fictionalized portrayals of their mother, particularly following the release of House of Gucci.
Net Worth & Financial Status
Patrizia Reggiani’s exact net worth is not officially confirmed. Her finances have historically been linked to divorce settlements and property assets. While various estimates exist online, no verified figure has been publicly documented as of 2026.
Media Portrayal & Cultural Impact
Reggiani’s story gained renewed international attention with the release of Ridley Scott’s 2021 film House of Gucci, in which she was portrayed by Lady Gaga. The film reignited public discussion around the case, though members of the Gucci family criticized its accuracy.
Trivia & Key Facts
- She was born Patrizia Martinelli and later adopted by her stepfather.
- Italian media labeled her the “Black Widow” during the trial.
- She served approximately 18 years in prison.
- She declined work-based parole opportunities.
- Her life story inspired a major Hollywood film.
FAQs
Who is Patrizia Reggiani?
An Italian former socialite convicted of arranging the murder of her ex-husband, Maurizio Gucci.
How many children does she have?
She has two daughters.
When was she released from prison?
She was released in October 2016.
Is Patrizia Reggiani still alive?
Yes, she is alive as of 2026.
