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REMEMBERING JOHN APREA: A CHARISMATIC CHARACTER ACTOR WHO LEFT HIS MARK ON HOLLYWOOD
So sad, the passing of John Aprea.
I write this article with heartbreak while listening to Can You Stand The Rain by New Edition, which even further made me sober as we mourn the passing of a great Actor.
The passing of John Aprea on the 5th of August, 2024 at the age of 83 marks the end of an era for a versatile actor whose career spanned decades and left an indelible mark on both the big and small screens.
Aprea brought to life a variety of characters that have been etched into the memories of audiences worldwide. In “The Godfather Part II“, and “Full House,” Aprea’s performances were always compelling, making him one of the most beloved character actors of his time.
Born on March 4, 1941, in Englewood, New Jersey, John Aprea was the son of Italian immigrants. His early life was steeped in the rich cultural heritage of his parents, a background that would later infuse his acting with a depth of authenticity, particularly in the Italian-American roles for which he became well-known.
After spending a few years living in Italy with his family, Aprea returned to New Jersey, where he graduated from Dwight Morrow High School in 1959. A natural athlete, he played football during his high school years, but it was in acting that he found his true calling.
In the early 1960s, Aprea moved to New York City, where he began pursuing his passion for acting. It was a time of great cultural change, and the city was a vibrant hub for aspiring actors. Aprea’s journey led him to Los Angeles, where his career in film and television would truly begin to flourish.
His first major break came in 1968 when he landed a role in the crime thriller “Bullitt,” starring Steve McQueen. This early role in such a high-profile film set the stage for what would become a long and varied career.
Aprea’s big break came in 1974 when he joined the cast of “The Godfather Part II,” directed by Francis Ford Coppola.
In this legendary sequel, Aprea portrayed the younger version of Sal Tessio, a role originally played by Abe Vigoda in the first “Godfather” film. The character of Tessio is one of the most memorable in the series, a mobster with a mix of loyalty and treachery.
The way Aprea played young Tessio was pitch-perfect, capturing the essence of a man who is calculating yet deeply embedded in the codes of the mafia world.
Interestingly, Aprea’s connection to the “Godfather” series began before he even stepped onto the set of the sequel. While tending a bar in Los Angeles, Aprea met Francis Ford Coppola, a chance encounter that led to his audition for the role of Michael Corleone in the original “Godfather.”
Though the role ultimately went to Al Pacino, Aprea’s audition left an impression on Coppola, who later cast him in the sequel. To prepare for the role of young Tessio, Aprea reached out to Abe Vigoda for advice, only to be told, “I don’t know what I did. Just have a good time, kid.” And have a good time he did—Aprea’s performance in “The Godfather Part II” remains one of the highlights of his career.
Beyond “The Godfather,” Aprea continued to work steadily in film and television, showcasing his versatility as an actor. He appeared in a variety of genres, from crime dramas to comedies, always bringing a unique energy to his roles.
One of his standout performances was in Taylor Hackford’s “The Idolmaker” (1980), where he played the brother of Ray Sharkey’s music promoter. In this film, Aprea demonstrated his ability to explore the nitty gritty of family dynamics and ambition.
In the 1980s, Aprea became a familiar face on television, with roles on popular shows like “Knots Landing,” “Falcon Crest,” and “Another World.” In “Another World,” Aprea took on the dual roles of Lucas Castigliano and Alexander Nikos, two characters who couldn’t have been more different, yet both met similarly dramatic ends—shot to death by women.
His ability to play both a suave multimillionaire and a shady criminal on the same show showcased his range as an actor and made him a favorite among soap opera fans.
However, it was his role as Nick Katsopolis, the father of John Stamos’ character Jesse on “Full House,” that endeared him to a new generation of viewers.
From 1988 to 1991, Aprea appeared in the beloved sitcom as the gruff yet affectionate patriarch of the Katsopolis family. His interactions with his onscreen son were both humorous and heartwarming, making Nick a character that fans of the show still remember fondly. Aprea would reprise this role decades later in the Netflix reboot “Fuller House,” bringing his character full circle and allowing a new generation to enjoy him.
Aprea’s career wasn’t limited to just a few iconic roles; it was his ability to bring depth and nuance to each character that made him stand out.
Whether playing a mob boss, a hitman, a sheriff, or a father, Aprea had a way of making every role feel authentic and fully realized. His guest appearances on shows like “The Sopranos,” “CSI,” and “NYPD Blue” were always memorable.
In addition to his television work, Aprea continued to appear in films throughout his career. He had roles in “The Stepford Wives” (1975), “American Anthem” (1986), “The Game” (1997), and “The Manchurian Candidate” (2004), among others.
Despite his success in Hollywood, Aprea remained grounded and devoted to his family. He was married three times and had one daughter, Nicole, from his previous marriage to actress Ninon Aprea. He also had two stepchildren, Marika and Valentino, with his third wife, Betsy Graci, with whom he shared a 25-year relationship. Aprea’s love for his family was evident, and his dedication to them was unwavering.
John Aprea’s passing is a significant loss to the world of entertainment. He was an actor who brought joy, excitement, and a touch of danger to every role he played.
His performances were always imbued with a sense of authenticity and heart, making him a beloved figure in Hollywood. As fans reflect on his career, it’s clear that Aprea’s contributions to film and television will not be forgotten. His legacy lives on in the many characters he brought to life and the countless moments of entertainment he provided to audiences around the world.
As we say goodbye to John Aprea, we remember not only the characters he played but also the man behind them—a man who loved his craft, his family, and the art of storytelling.
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