Who was Gucci's girlfriend when he died?

Paola Franchi: The Woman Beside Maurizio Gucci in His Final Years

When Maurizio Gucci, the last family member to lead the iconic fashion house, was assassinated outside his Milan office in 1995, it marked not only the end of an era for the Gucci dynasty but also a personal tragedy for those close to him. At the time of his death, he was in a relationship with Paola Franchi, an interior designer known for her refined taste and understated elegance.

Their relationship began in 1992, a few years after Maurizio’s divorce from Patrizia Reggiani—the same woman later convicted of orchestrating his murder. Paola brought stability during a turbulent chapter in his life, standing by him as he struggled with financial decline and the loss of control over the brand bearing his name. Though they never married, their bond was deeply personal, and Franchi often spoke of Maurizio with affection and respect long after his death.

Franchi, who was married to Giorgio Colombo from 1983 to 1991, brought more than just companionship—she offered emotional support during a time when Maurizio was increasingly isolated. Her background in interior design aligned with the luxury world he once ruled, and together they shared a life removed from the public eye, at least until the shocking moment he was gunned down on the steps of his office.

While much of the media attention following Maurizio’s murder focused on the sensational betrayal by his ex-wife, Paola Franchi’s role as his partner in his final years remains a quieter, yet significant, part of the Gucci story. Her presence offers a glimpse into the man behind the name—vulnerable, rebuilding, and searching for normalcy amidst the weight of legacy and loss.