Joseph Frank Pesci is an American actor and musician. He is known for portraying tough, volatile characters in a variety of genres and for his collaborations with Robert De Niro and Martin Scorsese in the films Raging Bull, Goodfellas, Casino, and The Irishman.
Joe Pesci is a renowned American actor known for his versatile and memorable performances in film. He was born on February 9, 1943, in Newark, New Jersey, USA. Pesci is known for his ability to portray both comedic and dramatic roles with equal skill, and he has earned critical acclaim and numerous awards throughout his career. Here are some key highlights of Joe Pesci’s career:
- Early Career: Joe Pesci began his career in show business as a child actor, appearing in television programs and commercials.
- Breakthrough with Martin Scorsese: Pesci gained widespread recognition and his breakthrough role when he collaborated with director Martin Scorsese in the film “Raging Bull” (1980), in which he played the brother of the main character, Jake LaMotta.
- “Goodfellas” (1990): He delivered a critically acclaimed performance as Tommy DeVito in Martin Scorsese’s crime drama “Goodfellas,” earning him the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.
- “Home Alone” Series: Pesci showcased his comedic talents in the family comedy film “Home Alone” (1990) and its sequel, “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York” (1992), where he played the bumbling burglar Harry.
- “My Cousin Vinny” (1992): Pesci received further acclaim for his role as Vincent Gambini, a fast-talking lawyer, in this courtroom comedy film, earning him an Academy Award nomination.
- “Casino” (1995): He reunited with Martin Scorsese and Robert De Niro in this crime drama, portraying the character Nicky Santoro.
- “The Irishman” (2019): Pesci came out of retirement to star in this acclaimed Martin Scorsese film, where he played Russell Bufalino, earning him a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.
- Music Career: In addition to his acting career, Pesci briefly pursued a career as a singer and released an album titled “Vincent LaGuardia Gambini Sings Just for You” in 1998.
- Personal Life: Known for his often private and reserved nature, Joe Pesci has maintained a low profile in the entertainment industry.
Joe Pesci’s talent for both comedy and drama, his ability to inhabit complex characters, and his collaborations with esteemed directors like Martin Scorsese have cemented his status as a celebrated actor in Hollywood. His performances continue to be appreciated by audiences and critics alike.