Al Molinaro was an American actor who is best known for his roles in “Happy Days,” “The Odd Couple,” and “Joanie Loves Chachi.” He had a long career in television and film, charming audiences with his comedic talent.
Personal and Family Life
Al Molinaro was born Umberto Francesca Molinaro on June 24, 1919, in Kenosha, Wisconsin, to Italian immigrant parents. He married Helen Jacqueline Martin in 1948, adopting their son Michael Molinaro, but the couple divorced in 1980. In 1981, he married Betty Lou Farrell, and they lived in Glendale, California, until his passing in 2015. Al had two stepchildren and a total of six grandchildren.
Career Highlights
Al’s acting career took off after he made his film debut at the age of 25. He first gained fame for his role as Murray the Cop on “The Odd Couple.” Later, he played Al Delvecchio on “Happy Days,” a role he enjoyed for ten years. Besides acting, he was a successful commercial spokesperson, notably for “Encore” frozen dinners. Al also produced live television shows and worked in various roles in Hollywood throughout his career.
Death and Legacy
Al Molinaro passed away on October 30, 2015, due to complications from a gall bladder infection. He had been living with Alzheimer’s disease for 20 years but continued to engage with his fans as much as possible. Remembered as a kind and talented man, his contributions to television and film remain cherished by many.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Work of Director Spike Jonze | 2003-10-20 | Al |
| Freaky Friday | 1976-12-17 | Drapery Man |
| Weezer: Video Capture Device – Treasures from the Vault 1991-2002 | 2004-03-23 | Al Delvecchio (“Buddy Holly”) |
| It’s a Bird, It’s a Plane, It’s Superman! | 1975-02-21 | Gangster |
| Mayday at 40,000 Feet! | 1977-04-29 | Forenzo |
| Rosetti and Ryan: Men Who Love Women | 1977-05-19 | Benny |
| Gridlock | 1980-10-02 | Sightseer |
| Great Day | 1977-05-23 | Peavey |
| A Christmas for Boomer | 1979-12-06 | Casey |
| Joanie Loves Chachi | 1982-03-23 | Al Delvecchio |
| The Odd Couple | 1970-09-24 | Murray |
| Step by Step | 1991-09-20 | |
| Laverne & Shirley | 1976-01-27 | |
| Happy Days | 1974-01-15 | Al Delvecchio |
| Get Smart | 1965-09-18 | |
| Bewitched | 1964-09-17 | |
| Green Acres | 1965-09-15 | |
| The Love Boat | 1977-09-24 | Antonio Borga |
| Love, American Style | 1969-09-29 | |
| That Girl | 1966-09-08 | |
| Punky Brewster | 1984-09-16 | |
| The Family Man | 1990-09-11 | Joe Alberghetti |
| Dinah! | 1974-10-21 | Self |
| The Mike Douglas Show | 1961-12-11 | Self |