Vinny Vella was an American actor, best known for his roles in Casino, In the Cut, and Find Me Guilty. He gained recognition for his distinctive performances and worked alongside notable figures in the film industry.
Personal and Family Life
Vinny Vella was born on January 11, 1947, in Greenwich Village, New York City. He was married to Margaret Ann Hernandez, and they had one child together. Notably, Robert De Niro was his best man at their wedding. Vella lived in the same building as the mother of director Martin Scorsese, and he shared a memorable scene with her in the film Casino.
Career Highlights
Vinny Vella appeared in numerous films and television shows throughout his career. He was particularly known for his roles in Mafia-themed movies, showcasing his talent for portraying tough characters. He shared scenes with various friends in the industry, including actor Joseph Rigano. One notable moment in his career was a legal dispute over a misprinted lottery ticket, which he claimed was a winning ticket.
Death and Legacy
Vinny Vella passed away on February 20, 2019, in New York City due to liver cancer. His contributions to film and television continue to be remembered, especially his role in the iconic movie Casino. Vella’s work remains appreciated by fans of the genre and he is celebrated for his unique presence on screen.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Casino | 1995-11-22 | Artie Piscano |
| Coffee and Cigarettes | 2004-03-12 | Vinny (segment “Those Things’ll Kill Ya”) |
| Find Me Guilty | 2006-03-16 | Graziedei |
| Kill the Irishman | 2011-03-10 | Frank Brancato |
| The Town That Banned Christmas | 2006-11-01 | Judge Jeremiah |
| Destination Anywhere | 1997-06-16 | Angry Window Man |
| The Red Corvette | 2011-11-11 | Gino Appollozza |
| The Orphanage | 2013-06-22 | Dino |
| Partners | 2009-06-05 | Don Vella |
| My X-Girlfriend’s Wedding Reception | 1999-01-09 | Godfather Carmine |
| The Sopranos | 1999-01-10 | Jimmy Petrille |
| Spy | 2011-08-09 | Harry ‘Red’ Dellarose |
| The Irishman | 2019-11-01 | Meat Company Yard Manager |