Frank Campanella was an American actor best known for his roles in Pretty Woman, Overboard, and Raising Helen. He was born on March 12, 1919, in New York City, New York, USA, and passed away on December 30, 2006, in Los Angeles, California, USA.
Personal and Family Life
Frank Campanella grew up in New York, where he spoke Italian at home before learning English. He had an older brother, Joseph Campanella, who was also an actor. During World War II, Frank worked as a civilian interpreter for the U.S. government, translating Italian and Sicilian dialects.
Career Highlights
Initially aspiring to be a concert pianist, Frank came from a musical family, with his father working as a musician and piano builder. He later turned to acting and became notable for his role as Pops in Pretty Woman. Additionally, Frank helped Robert De Niro deliver his Sicilian lines in The Godfather Part II, which contributed to De Niro’s Oscar-winning performance.
Death and Legacy
Frank Campanella passed away on December 30, 2006, due to complications from Crohn’s Disease. He left behind a legacy in film and television, remembered for both his acting and his contributions as a coach. His work in various films has made a lasting impact on the industry.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Heaven Can Wait | 1978-06-28 | Conway |
| Capone | 1975-04-16 | Big Jim Colosimo |
| Stage Struck | 1958-04-22 | Victor |
| High Noon, Part II: The Return of Will Kane | 1980-11-15 | Dr. Losey |
| The Turning Point of Jim Malloy | 1975-04-12 | Lintzie |
| The Movie Murderer | 1970-02-02 | Arson Lieutenant |
| The Gang That Couldn’t Shoot Straight | 1971-12-22 | Water Buffalo |
| Angel on My Shoulder | 1980-05-11 | Gino Ciannelli |
| Somebody Up There Likes Me | 1956-07-04 | Detective (uncredited) |
| The Mephisto Waltz | 1971-04-09 | Detective (uncredited) |
| Pretty Woman | 1990-03-23 | Pops |
| Death Wish II | 1982-02-20 | Judge Neil A. Lake |
| Raising Helen | 2004-05-27 | Mourner |