Venantino Venantini was an Italian actor known for his work in films like “The Agony and the Ecstasy,” “Cannibal Ferox,” and “La Cage aux folles.” He had a long and diverse career that spanned nearly 50 years, appearing in a range of Italian, French, and American productions.
Personal and Family Life
Born Enrico Venantino Venantini on April 17, 1930, in Fabriano, Italy, he later became a naturalized American. Venantini was fluent in French and worked as a translator at the American Embassy after the liberation of Rome. He was the father of actor Luca Venantini, continuing the family’s artistic legacy.
Career
Venantini’s acting career began as a means to support his passion for painting. He was accepted into the prestigious École nationale supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris and took various film roles to finance his move to France. His big break came in 1963 when he was cast in Georges Lautner’s “Crooks in Clover.” Over the years, he appeared in both high-profile films and low-budget exploitation movies, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Death and Legacy
Venantino Venantini passed away on October 9, 2018, in Viterbo, Italy, due to complications from a fall. His contribution to cinema, particularly in arthouse and grindhouse genres, is remembered fondly. He left behind a legacy through his son, Luca, who has also become a notable actor.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Je crois que je l’aime | 2007-02-08 | Della Ponte |
| Number One | 1973-05-28 | a |
| La Cage aux folles | 1978-10-25 | Le chauffeur de Charrier |
| J’ai toujours rêvé d’être un gangster | 2008-03-26 | Joe |
| Paura nella città dei morti viventi | 1980-08-11 | Mr. Ross |
| Cannibal Ferox | 1981-04-24 | Sgt. Ross |
| The Agony and the Ecstasy | 1965-09-16 | Paride de Grassis |
| Ladyhawke | 1985-03-27 | Bishop’s Secretary |
| La guerra dei robot | 1978-04-26 | Paul |
| Fair Game | 1994-06-11 | Claudio |