Introduction
Al Lettieri was an American actor who made a name for himself in Hollywood during the 1960s and 1970s. From his early days on the TV show Perry Mason to his role as Virgil Sollozzo in The Godfather, Lettieri was a versatile actor who left a lasting legacy in the film industry. In this article, we’ll explore the life and work of Al Lettieri, and take a closer look at some of his most memorable performances.
Early Life and Career
Al Lettieri was born on February 24, 1928, in Brooklyn, New York. He grew up in a working-class family and started his career as a boxer before turning to acting. His first acting job was in the TV show Perry Mason in 1959, where he played the role of a murder suspect. This was followed by several other TV appearances, including The Untouchables and The Fugitive.
Lettieri’s breakthrough role came in 1972 when he played the role of Virgil Sollozzo in The Godfather. His performance as the ruthless gangster was widely acclaimed and helped cement his status as a Hollywood actor. He went on to star in several other movies, including The Getaway and McQ, before his untimely death in 1975.
Personal Life
Al Lettieri was married twice and had two children, a son named Antony Lettieri and a daughter named Hala Lettieri. His son Antony followed in his father’s footsteps and became an actor, while his daughter Hala became a producer. In an interview, Antony Lettieri spoke about his father’s passion for acting and how he always gave his best performance, no matter how small the role.
Legacy
Despite his relatively short career, Al Lettieri left a lasting legacy in the film industry. His portrayal of Virgil Sollozzo in The Godfather is still regarded as one of the most memorable performances in movie history. Lettieri’s son Antony has continued to keep his father’s memory alive by acting in movies and TV shows, while his daughter Hala has produced several films.
Conclusion
Al Lettieri was a talented actor who made a significant impact in the film industry during his short career. From his early days on Perry Mason to his iconic role in The Godfather, Lettieri’s performances continue to inspire and entertain audiences today. His legacy lives on through his children and the films he starred in, cementing his place in Hollywood history.
