Gianni Russo

Movie Star

 

Gianni Russo has made a career of playing tough guys. He is remembered most for his role as Carlo Rizzi in The Godfather, directed by Francis Ford Coppola from the screenplay by Mario Puzo, starring alongside movie stars Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, James Caan, Robert Duvall, and Diane Keaton.

Russo’s acting career has spanned over 40 films, also including such hits as The Freshman, Rush Hour, Any Given Sunday, The Family Man, and Sea biscuit, as well as television roles in Kojak, The Rockford Files and Prison Break.

Russo believes it's his musical crooning that separates him from the mob of other on-screen wise guys. His debut CD ‘Reflections’ paid homage to such legendary singers as Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra. These icons inspired him both personally and professionally. The CD contains a bonus track where Russo reminisces about the behind-the-scenes drama that took place during the filming of The Godfather. Russo travels the country with his orchestra, performing for sold out appearances performing the music that has influenced his life.

Born in Manhattan and raised in Little Italy and Staten Island, Russo overcame polio as a child to start his first ‘business’ at the tender age of twelve; selling pens and erasers on the street corners. At eighteen, Russo made his first trip to Miami where he began to dabble in show-business working in nightclubs and hotspots, before deciding to pursue acting and move to Hollywood.

His follow up CD was released in June 2010, and his self titled wine label Gianni Russo Wines launched nationally in 2009 and has become a premier American brand.

Russo’s colorful life is currently being adapted into a feature film by producer Brett Ratner and director George Gallo.

Gianni Russo resides in New York City.