Dick Latessa was an American actor who is best known for his roles in “Hairspray,” “Alfie,” and “The Black Donnellys.” He made a significant impact on both stage and screen during his career.
Personal and Family Life
Born Richard Robert Latessa on September 15, 1929, in Cleveland, Ohio, he grew up with a passion for acting. Latessa started his career after being inspired by a musical at the Karamu House theater in Cleveland. He met his future wife, Shirley Stollman, while performing together in a play. The couple had three daughters: Rachel Toomey, Gina Latessa, and Gabrielle Latessa, along with a granddaughter.
Career
Before acting, Latessa worked as a machinist and newspaper carrier. He received critical acclaim and won a Tony Award for Best Actor in a Featured Role for his performance in “Hairspray” in 2003. His versatile acting skills allowed him to take on various roles in theater, television, and film. Latessa was also known for his work in multiple episodes of “Law & Order” and other series throughout his career.
Death and Legacy
Dick Latessa passed away on December 19, 2016, in Manhattan, New York City, due to heart failure. His contributions to theater and television are remembered fondly, and his performances continue to resonate with audiences. He left behind a legacy of exceptional talent and dedication to the craft of acting.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Stigmata | 1999-09-02 | Father Gianni Delmonico |
| The Great New Wonderful | 2005-04-22 | Jerry Binder |
| The Event | 2003-01-01 | Uncle Leo |
| The Last New Yorker | 2010-02-19 | Ruben |
| Rockabye | 1986-01-11 | Malcolm Sterling |
| Thicker Than Blood | 1998-05-31 | Ciccilone |
| Shattered Trust: The Shari Karney Story | 1993-09-27 | Jack Karney |
| The Substance of Fire | 1996-09-11 | Mr. McCormack Sr |
| The Will Rogers Follies: A Life In Revue | 1993-11-26 | Clem Rogers |
| Izzy & Moe | 1985-09-23 | Lieut. Murphy |
| Alfie | 2004-10-22 | Joe |
| Philemon | 1976-10-07 | Cockian |
| Out of the Darkness | 1985-10-12 | ‘Boss’ Tom Messenger |
| Trackdown: Finding the Goodbar Killer | 1983-10-15 | Puliese |
| The Family Man | 1979-12-19 | Fred |
| The Adventures of Young Indiana Jones: Spring Break Adventure | 1999-10-17 | Willie |
| The Neighborhood | 1982-04-25 | Mort Manoff |
| Over The Limit | 1990-02-22 | Coach Schneider |
| Better Than Ever | 1997-01-01 | Mr. Mayhew |
| The Good Wife | 2009-09-22 | Judge Horace Dunn |
| True Blue | 1989-12-03 | Detective Mike Duffy |
| Law & Order | 1990-09-13 | Defense Attorney Mitchell Klein |
| Law & Order | 1990-09-13 | Conti |
| Law & Order: Special Victims Unit | 1999-09-20 | Marcus Ridiger |
| Law & Order | 1990-09-13 | Vice Admiral Miles Coty |
| Law & Order | 1990-09-13 | Bishop Durning |
| Tony Awards | 1956-04-01 | Self – Winner |
| Emily Owens, M.D | 2012-10-16 | Max Mullins |
| Mission: Impossible | 1966-09-17 | Gen. Tamaar |
| Central Park West | 1995-09-13 | Dr. Kyle Rose |