It faced heavy criticism for its 2013 coverage of the unproven "Stamina" therapy, which experts argued promoted pseudo-science.
More recently, it has championed the right to dignity in end-of-life care, following the stories of patients like Laura Santi in their legal battles for assisted dying. Controversies and Criticism Le iene
The "story" of is one of evolution from a lighthearted satirical variety show into a powerful, often controversial, pillar of Italian investigative journalism. Debuting in 1997 on Italia 1 , the program is famous for its reporters (known as "Hyenas") who wear black suits and ties in an homage to the film Reservoir Dogs . It faced heavy criticism for its 2013 coverage
In 2025, the show was credited with finding Carlotta Morri and her daughter after years of silence, a case that had captivated the Italian public. Debuting in 1997 on Italia 1 , the
Some critics argue the show focuses on "easy indignation" and "gut reactions" rather than deep, objective analysis.
The show is notorious for "doorstepping" politicians. In 2006, it famously tested 50 deputies for drugs under the guise of makeup applications, finding that nearly one-third tested positive—a report that was ultimately censored by Parliament on privacy grounds.
While it began with celebrity pranks and humor, it gained national significance by "biting" into social and political injustices that mainstream news sometimes overlooks. Major Impact Stories