Joseph Campanella American character actor Date of Birth: 21.11.1924 Country: USA

1. Early Life and Education
2. Television Career
3. Broadway and Film
4. Narration and Commercials
5. Personal Life
6. Later Years and Death

Early Life and Education

Joseph Anthony Campanella was born on November 21, 1924, in New York City, to Philip and Mary O. Campanella. He had two older brothers, Frank and Philip. The family spoke Italian before learning English. The Campanellas were devout Roman Catholics.

During World War II, Joseph served in the United States Navy. He later graduated from Manhattan College in 1948. Campanella went on to study acting at Columbia University.

Television Career

Campanella's extensive television career spanned over 200 roles in series and films from the early 1950s to 2009. He is best known for his portrayal of Joe Turino in "Guiding Light" and Harper Deveraux in "Days of Our Lives." He also appeared in iconic shows such as "Walker, Texas Ranger," "The Golden Girls," "Rockford Files," and "The Invaders."

Broadway and Film

Campanella appeared in three Broadway plays in the 1960s. In 1963, he starred in the ill-fated musical "Hot Spot," which became one of the biggest budget flops in Broadway history.

Despite his theatrical misadventures, Campanella found success in films. He had notable roles in "Sky Heist" and "One Day at a Time." He also lent his voice to the animated series "Spider-Man: The Animated Series" and "Batman: The Animated Series."

Narration and Commercials

Campanella was the narrator of Disney Channel's educational series "Discover" from 1992 to 1994. He was also the voice behind BMW's famous slogan "BMW...the ultimate driving machine."

Personal Life

Campanella met his wife, singer and dancer Kathryn Jill Bartholomew, in 1963 while performing in "Hot Spot." They married on May 30, 1964. The couple had seven sons: Philip, Robert Yale, Joseph Anthony Jr., Dominic Peter, Anthony F., John Mario, and Andrew Michael.

Later Years and Death

Campanella continued to act until 2009. He appeared in the films "For Heaven's Sake" and "Lost Dream."

Joseph Anthony Campanella died on May 16, 2018, at his home in Sherman Oaks, California, at the age of 93.