Blake Griffin Celebrates Wedding in Italy as New TV Show

Blake Griffin is celebrating a major personal milestone this week, as the retired NBA star appears to be enjoying his wedding weekend in Italy with fiancée Francesca Aiello. The event, attended by former partner Kendall Jenner, caps a period of transition for the six-time All-Star, who is also launching a new career in television and seeing his on-court legacy debated for the Basketball Hall of Fame.

A New Chapter in Italy

Blake Griffin and fashion designer Francesca Aiello are celebrating their apparent wedding weekend in Porto Ercole, Italy. Photos obtained by TMZ show the couple, who announced their engagement in January 2025, surrounded by friends on September 5. Griffin, 37, wore red swim trunks while Aiello, 31, the founder of Frankies Bikinis, donned a white bathing suit. Notably, Griffin's ex-girlfriend, supermodel Kendall Jenner, was also present at the festivities, signaling an amicable post-relationship friendship. Jenner, 30, dated Griffin from 2017 to 2018 but was notoriously private about their romance.

From Dunking to Discussing on 'The Stepback'

Away from the court, Griffin is building a new career in media. His recently launched late-night talk show, 'The Stepback with Blake Griffin', is being touted as a potential new blueprint for the format. The show represents a significant post-retirement pivot for the former Los Angeles Clippers star, use his personality and NBA connections in a fresh entertainment space. Its early reception suggests Griffin could find a lasting second act in television, much like other athlete-hosts before him.

A Hall of Fame Legacy Takes Shape

As Griffin settles into retirement, conversation about his basketball legacy is heating up. The former power forward's 13-year career, highlighted by six All-Star appearances and five All-NBA Team selections, is now being evaluated for the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Early discussions for the 2027 class include his name as a candidate. His prime years were defined by explosive athleticism and a highlight-reel style that made him one of the league's most exciting players, a case fans can explore further on our [stats](/stats) page.

Remembering Prime Dwight Howard

In recent reflections on his playing days, Griffin shared a vivid memory of facing legendary center Dwight Howard. He recalled Howard's unparalleled strength, stating the three-time Defensive Player of the Year could pick him up so his "feet would just be dangling," making Griffin feel "like a little kid." Griffin even recounted getting his "bell rung" by a Howard elbow to the temple, a sign of the physical dominance Howard possessed during his MVP-caliber peak. These matchups are now part of the lore of an era defined by powerful big men.

• Blake Griffin and Francesca Aiello are celebrating their wedding in Porto Ercole, Italy, with the event attended by ex-girlfriend Kendall Jenner.
• Griffin has launched a new late-night talk show, 'The Stepback,' marking a major career shift into television.
• His 13-year NBA career, featuring six All-Star nods, is generating early Hall of Fame buzz for the 2027 class.
• Griffin recently recalled the sheer physical power of prime Dwight Howard, who made him feel like a child during their matchups.

With his wedding, a new show, and a growing legacy discussion, Blake Griffin is firmly in the spotlight as he writes the next chapters of his life.