Ron Palillo was an American actor who is best known for his role as Arnold Horshack in the TV show Welcome Back, Kotter, as well as appearances in films like Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives and Hellgate.
Personal and Family Life
Born on April 2, 1949, in New Haven, Connecticut, Ron was the second of four siblings in the Paolillo family. His parents were Gabriel and Carmel Paolillo. Ron’s two brothers, Richard and Robert, pursued careers in medicine and sales, respectively, while his sister, Ann, became a teacher. He shared a long-term partnership with Joseph Graham, which lasted for 41 years and they lived together in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.
Career
Ron Palillo began his acting career at a young age, starting a summer theater in Cheshire, Connecticut at just 14. He attended the University of Connecticut, where he majored in drama, gaining much experience by acting in various plays. After finishing college, Ron toured with a Shakespearean company and later continued his career in New York, where he gained popularity through the off-Broadway show Hot L Baltimore. His talent led him to television and film roles, including notable performances in both comedic and dramatic projects.
Death and Legacy
Ron Palillo passed away on August 14, 2012, from a heart attack in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. He was remembered fondly by fans and colleagues for his unique performances, particularly his role in Welcome Back, Kotter. His contributions to theater and television have left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives | 1986-08-01 | Allen Hawes |
| Dickie Roberts: Former Child Star | 2003-09-04 | Self |
| Hellgate | 1989-02-03 | Matt |
| Skatetown, U.S.A. | 1979-10-01 | Frankey |
| Committed | 1991-04-18 | Ronnie |
| Trees 2: The Root of All Evil | 2004-03-20 | Dougie Styles |
| The Tempest | 1982-09-24 | Trinculo |
| Doin’ Time | 1985-05-19 | Pappion |
| Snake Eater | 1989-02-22 | Torchy |
| Surf II: The End of the Trilogy | 1984-01-13 | Deputy Underwear |
| The Invisible Woman | 1983-02-13 | Spike Mitchell |
| Wind | 1992-09-11 | Tony |
| Snake Eater II: The Drug Buster | 1989-10-01 | Torchy |
| The Pound Puppies | 1985-10-26 | Scrounger (voice) |
| The Guardians | 2013-03-05 | Professor Walker |
| The Love Boat | 1977-09-24 | Al Breyer |
| Darkwing Duck | 1991-09-06 | |
| E! True Hollywood Story | 1996-08-21 | |
| Donny & Marie | 1976-01-23 | Self |
| Rubik, the Amazing Cube | 1983-09-17 | Rubik |
| The Captain and Tennille | 1976-09-20 | Self |
| The Mork & Mindy / Laverne & Shirley / Fonz Hour | 1982-09-25 | Sergeant Squealy (voice) |
| Laverne & Shirley in the Army | 1981-10-10 | Sgt. Squealy |
| Alice | 1976-08-31 | |
| CHiPs | 1977-09-15 | |
| Welcome Back, Kotter | 1975-09-09 | Arnold Horshack |
| Duckman | 1994-03-05 | |
| The A-Team | 1983-01-23 | Zack |
| Cagney & Lacey | 1982-03-25 | |
| Matt Houston | 1982-09-26 | |
| Where Are They Now? | 1999-06-07 | Self |
| Sweepstakes | 1979-01-26 | |
| The Love Boat | 1977-09-24 | Casper Martin |
| Murder, She Wrote | 1984-09-30 | Norman Lester |
| The Mike Douglas Show | 1961-12-11 | Self |
| Hollywood Squares | 1998-09-14 | Self – Panelist |