Tony Sirico
Date of Birth: 29.07.1942
Country: USA |
Content:
- Early Life and Criminal Entanglements
- Arrests and Incarceration
- Film Debut and Gangster Roles
- Breakout Role in "Goodfellas"
- "The Sopranos" and Iconic Character
- Later Career and Legacy
- Personal Life
- Death and Legacy
Early Life and Criminal Entanglements
Born on July 29, 1942, in New York City, Genaro Anthony Sirico was raised in the Bensonhurst neighborhood of Brooklyn, known as "Little Italy." From an early age, he was exposed to the world of organized crime and juvenile delinquency. Arrested for stealing coins at age seven, he joined a New York street gang and became affiliated with the Colombo crime family.
Arrests and Incarceration
Sirico's criminal trajectory led to multiple arrests and a grand total of 28 detentions. While incarcerated for extortion, coercion, and weapons possession, he discovered his passion for acting through prison theater performances. This experience marked a turning point, inspiring him to leave behind his criminal past and pursue a career in film.
Film Debut and Gangster Roles
Sirico's film debut came in 1974's "Crazy Joe," directed by Carlo Lizzani. His real-life experience with the criminal underworld translated well to the screen, landing him roles as mobsters in numerous films, including a memorable cameo in Francis Ford Coppola's iconic "The Godfather Part II."
Breakout Role in "Goodfellas"
Martin Scorsese's groundbreaking gangster film "Goodfellas" (1990) cemented Sirico's reputation as a master of the genre. Alongside Robert De Niro, Ray Liotta, and Joe Pesci, he delivered a powerful performance as a ruthless mob associate.
"The Sopranos" and Iconic Character
Sirico's career reached its peak with his portrayal of Поли Галтиери in the critically acclaimed HBO series "The Sopranos" (1999-2007). Initially intended for a different role, Sirico's casting as Поли proved to be a perfect fit. Despite his character's violent nature, Sirico insisted that Поли would never become an informant.
Later Career and Legacy
After "The Sopranos," Sirico continued to appear in television and film, including "Medium" and "Lilyhammer." He also lent his voice to numerous animated series, such as "Family Guy" and "American Dad!" Despite being primarily known for his gangster roles, he also played police officers in "Dead Presidents" and Woody Allen's "Deconstructing Harry."
Personal Life
Sirico led a private personal life, briefly marrying and having two children, Richard and Joan. His younger brother, Robert Sirico, became a Catholic priest, while his older brother, Carmine, appeared in a small role in "The Sopranos." Sirico's height was 5'8" (177 cm).
Death and Legacy
Tony Sirico died on July 8, 2022, three weeks before his 80th birthday. While the cause of death was not publicly disclosed, it is known that he had been suffering from dementia in his later years. Despite his illness, Sirico continued to work until his last film, "Respect the Jux," was released in May 2022. Tony Sirico will be remembered as a celebrated character actor who brought the world of organized crime to the screen with both authenticity and a touch of dark humor.