Sound of music calls as nun kicks the habit for new career

A NUN who shot to fame after winning the Italian version of The Voice with her remarkable singing has announced that she is renouncing her religious vows after nearly 15 years, swapping her demure appearance for makeup and glamorous outfits.

Cristina Scuccia, who as Sister Cristina became a household name in Italy, said the strictures of convent life had become too much, particularly after the death of her father when she longed to spend more time with her family.

Her surprise announcement made headlines in Italy yesterday, where she had become a huge but unlikely celebrity when in 2014, as a 25-year-old nun, she won the television talent show The Voice of Italy, belting out the Alicia Keys hit No One.

But she announced an abrupt change of direction, telling a television chat show that she had given up her life as a nun.

Appearing on the entertainment programme Verissimo in a red trouser suit and high heels, she said she now works in Spain as a waitress and hopes to continue her singing career.