“Everything you need to know about the Guccis—they’re all crazy, terribly manipulative, and not very sensible,” said those who got close enough to the Gucci family to know them well.

 

Drama was never in short supply for the Gucci family. Disputes over business, dividing shares, and legal battles among relatives were par for the course. But the most fateful moment came in 1970, when the founder’s grandson, Maurizio Gucci, met a young brunette. No one could have guessed that this encounter would ultimately strip the Guccis of their own brand.

 

A Fateful Meeting

 

The two met at a party in Milan. Patrizia Reggiani was a socialite from a well-off family. Maurizio’s father, Rodolfo Gucci, saw through her instantly, calling her a “gold digger” from their very first meeting. Maurizio, however, noticed nothing suspicious. His father’s words offended him—he was already dreaming of marrying Patrizia. Furious, Rodolfo issued an ultimatum: “Marry her, and neither of you will get a cent from me!” Hurt and defiant, Maurizio quit the family business, packed his bags, and left home for good.

 

 

A Rocky Start Together

 

Life as a couple didn’t begin smoothly for the young pair. Still, on October 28, 1972, they tied the knot despite the family rift. That same year, Maurizio and Patrizia moved to New York, seeking help from Rodolfo’s brother, Aldo. A new chapter began. Patrizia gave birth to two daughters, Alessandra and Allegra. With a new job and privileges, she basked in wealth, indulging herself and her children without restraint.

 

Rodolfo’s Death

 

Rodolfo passed away in 1983, leaving Maurizio a majority stake in the company. Before his death, he warned Patrizia: “With that kind of power and money, Maurizio will change.” He was right. As business troubles mounted, Maurizio grew colder and more distant. Patrizia only made things worse, convincing him that the entire family had turned against him. Eventually, Maurizio couldn’t take it anymore. Two years later, he walked out of the house and never came back. Patrizia learned of his desire for a divorce through his lawyer.

 

Rage and Revenge

 

Left alone with the children and stripped of her “Gucci” status, Patrizia spiraled into a fury of rage and jealousy. She called Maurizio daily, recording tapes filled with threats and angry rants. Housekeepers and friends recalled how she’d casually ask one day: “Do you know anyone who’d kill for money?” No one took her seriously. But exactly ten years later, on March 27, 1995, the fashion world was rocked by shocking news: Maurizio Gucci had been gunned down at the doorstep of his office. Two years later, the police found the culprits. The murder was orchestrated by none other than Patrizia, with help from her friend Pina Auriemma, who provided the contacts for a driver and a hitman. On November 3, 1998, Patrizia was found guilty and sentenced to 29 years in prison.

 

Life After Prison

 

Patrizia was released in 2016. Today, she lives in Milan off compensation payments from her late husband. Locals recognize her by the talking parrot perched on her shoulder. She’s even expressed a desire to work at Gucci again: “I still feel like a Gucci—in fact, I’m the most Gucci of them all.”