Silvio Berlusconi (September 29, 1936 – June 12, 2023) was an Italian media tycoon, entrepreneur, and politician who served as Prime Minister of Italy in four governments across three non-consecutive terms (1994–1995, 2001–2006, 2008–2011), making him the longest-serving post-war prime minister. He founded the Mediaset media empire starting with Telemilano in the 1970s, which grew into a vast business conglomerate including real estate, publishing, and insurance, amassing a fortune that ranked him among the world's wealthiest individuals. Berlusconi also owned the AC Milan football club from 1986 to 2017, leading it to multiple European and domestic titles. His political career began with the creation of the Forza Italia party in 1994, positioning him as a charismatic populist advocating for liberal economic reforms and anti-communist sentiments. He served as a member of the Italian Chamber of Deputies (1994–2013), the Senate (2013 and again from 2022 until his death), and the European Parliament (1999–2001, 2019–2022). Throughout his career, Berlusconi faced numerous legal battles including convictions for tax fraud (later overturned), a ban from public office until 2019, and involvement in the 'Rubygate' sex scandal. His legacy is polarizing: celebrated by supporters for economic liberalization and media innovation, but criticized for conflicts of interest due to his media dominance, alleged undermining of judicial independence and democratic norms, and controversial personal life.