American ‘Steve Snack’ Becomes Livorno’s Unexpected Star, Dreams of Tuscan Life

LIVORNO, ITALY – September 16, 2025 – In a story that’s quickly spreading across Italian social media, Steve Settanni, an American from Phoenix, Arizona, has captured the hearts of Livornesi with his remarkable fluency in their local dialect. Known online as “Steve Snack,” Settanni’s videos showcasing his Livornese have gone viral, prompting questions about how an American developed such a deep connection to this specific corner of Italian culture. This is a breaking news story with a uniquely human interest angle, poised for significant engagement and SEO visibility.

From Arizona Desert to Livornese Shores: A Unique Linguistic Journey

Settanni, a third-generation Italian-American, traces his family roots back to Basilicata and Istria. While aware of his heritage, he admits his Italian language skills were initially limited to what he learned in school. “I live in Phoenix, Arizona, here are only two seasons, summer and hell,” he told La Nazione, playfully referencing the stark contrast between his current home and the Tuscan coast. But the real turning point came during his time in New Jersey, where he befriended Lorenzo, a Livornese native.

“Lorenzo introduced me to this splendid dialect,” Settanni explained. “Together we watched videos of ‘Il Cuckoo’s Nest’ (a popular Italian comedy show) and had fun imitating the accent. Behind that spoken, a context of lightness, joy and good mood was created. He gave me to died.” This shared enjoyment sparked a passion that quickly blossomed into a dedicated pursuit of mastering the Livornese dialect – a regional variation known for its distinctive pronunciation and colorful expressions.

A Fan of Paolo Ruffini and a Dream of ‘Fare un 5E5’

Settanni’s admiration extends to Paolo Ruffini, a beloved Italian actor and comedian who also hails from Livorno and famously dubbed the voices in “Il Cuckoo’s Nest.” “I met him through the videos of the cuckoo’s nest even if I did not initially know that he dubbed the voices,” Settanni shared. “Then I found him on Facebook and from there I started following him more and more, watching his films and also listening to his podcasts. I like his way of transmitting energy and positivity.”

Settanni even expressed a playful desire to collaborate with Ruffini. “I would tell him that he has not only taught me a way of speaking, but also a more curious and happy way of living. Every time I speak in Livorno, I give me a dose of happiness. And then I would ask him if you want to do a 5E5 ‘nsieme’ (a Livornese expression meaning ‘let’s do something together’).”

TikTok as a Bridge to a Tuscan Future

Settanni’s TikTok channel isn’t just a platform for showcasing his linguistic skills; it’s a heartfelt attempt to connect with the people of Livorno and potentially fulfill a lifelong dream. “My dream is to move to Italy with my family. I love Tuscany and I would really like to get to know Livorno better,” he stated. “It is also for this reason that I created my channel on TikTok, so as to understand if I can please a people who gave me so much joy in life.”

Evergreen Context: The Importance of Regional Dialects in Italy – Italy’s linguistic landscape is incredibly diverse, with numerous regional dialects often differing significantly from standard Italian. These dialects are not merely variations in pronunciation; they represent unique cultural identities and historical legacies. Preserving these dialects is a growing concern, as globalization and the dominance of standard Italian threaten their survival. Figures like Steve Settanni, by embracing and celebrating these regional voices, play a vital role in keeping these traditions alive. The rise of social media provides a new avenue for dialect preservation, allowing enthusiasts from around the world to connect and share their passion.

Settanni’s story is a testament to the power of cultural connection and the enduring appeal of Italy’s rich linguistic heritage. As he continues to share his love for the Livornese dialect, he’s not only entertaining audiences but also fostering a deeper appreciation for the beauty and diversity of Italian culture. His journey, documented on TikTok, is a compelling narrative that resonates with anyone who has ever felt a connection to a place or culture far from home. Stay tuned to archyde.com for further updates on Steve Snack’s story and the evolving landscape of Italian cultural exchange.