Henry Armetta was an American actor known for his roles in films like “Dust Be My Destiny,” “Imitation of Life,” and “The Black Cat.” He was a celebrated Sicilian-born performer recognized for portraying lively Italian characters in numerous American films.
Personal and Family Life
Henry Armetta was born on July 4, 1888, in Palermo, Sicily, Italy. He moved to the United States as a teenager, eventually settling in New York City, where he worked various jobs before pursuing acting. He was married to Iole starting in 1920, and they had three children together. Armetta remained dedicated to his family throughout his career.
Career
Armetta began his acting journey in Broadway before transitioning to Hollywood in the 1920s to pursue a career in films. He quickly became known as a character actor, often depicting humorous and sympathetic Italian immigrant roles throughout his career, which lasted into the 1940s. His performances resonated with audiences, earning him a lasting place in the film industry.
Death and Legacy
Henry Armetta passed away from a heart attack on October 21, 1945, in San Diego, California, at the age of 57. He is buried in Holy Cross Cemetery. His contributions to film and theater left an enduring legacy, particularly in the portrayal of Italian-American characters, which influenced future generations of actors.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Black Cat | 1934-05-07 | The Sergeant |
| Dust Be My Destiny | 1939-09-16 | Nick Spelucci |
| I Stole a Million | 1939-08-01 | Nick Respina |
| Imitation of Life | 1934-11-23 | The Painter |
| In Old Arizona | 1928-12-25 | Barber (uncredited) |
| The Devil’s Brother | 1933-05-05 | Matteo |
| The Unholy Garden | 1931-10-06 | Nick the Goose |
| Romance | 1930-08-20 | Theater Manager Beppo |
| The Man Who Talked Too Much | 1940-07-16 | Tony Spirella |
| Just a Gigolo | 1931-06-06 | Hotel Manager |