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American Actors with Italian Ancestry

Imagine a world of movies filled with amazing actors who bring stories to life. Well, some of the coolest and most talented actors in America have Italian roots. These actors have made Hollywood super awesome with their acting skills and have become a big part of the movie’s magic. 

Let’s take a look at some actresses and veterans who share this heritage.

Top Italian Americans Actors

Did you know that Sylvester Stallone, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Nicholas Cage are all of Italian descent?  You may be surprised by some of the names.

Sylvester Stallone
Gage Skidmore, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Sylvester Stallone

Sylvester Stallone is an iconic American actor, screenwriter, director, and producer, known for his roles in blockbuster franchises like Rocky and Rambo. Born on July 6, 1946, Stallone’s Italian connection is evident in his heritage.

Leonardo DiCaprio
Falkenauge, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Leonardo DiCaprio

Leonardo DiCaprio is a versatile actor who has achieved global recognition for his roles in films like Titanic, Inception, and The Revenant. While not exclusively Italian, DiCaprio’s paternal grandparents were of Italian descent

Nicolas Cage
Gerald Geronimo, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Nicolas Cage

Nicolas Cage, born Nicolas Kim Coppola, is of Italian descent through his father’s side. Known for his diverse roles in films like Con Air and Leaving Las Vegas, Cage has made a mark in the entertainment industry.

Sean Penn

Sean Penn is a highly acclaimed actor known for his intense performances in films like Mystic River and Milk. Although not of Italian descent, Penn’s connection lies in his portrayal of Italian-American characters and his association with Italian-American communities in his roles.

Armand Assante
Officiallyarmandassante, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Armand Assante

Armand Assante is a seasoned actor with a career spanning five decades, known for his roles in movies like Gotti. Assante’s Italian connection is evident in his surname, and he has received international acclaim for his work.

Bobby Cannavale
Drama League, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Bobby Cannavale

 Bobby Cannavale, of Cuban and Italian descent, is an American actor acclaimed for his work in “Boardwalk Empire” and “Ant-Man.” His compelling performances have earned critical acclaim.

Paul Sorvino

Paul Sorvino, a tall and imposing actor, has played numerous authoritative roles. Born to Italian parents, Sorvino’s Italian connection is strong, and he has contributed significantly to the portrayal of Italian-American characters in film and television.

Armand Assante

Armand Assante is a seasoned actor with a career spanning five decades, known for his roles in movies like Gotti. Assante’s Italian connection is evident in his surname, and he has received international acclaim for his work.

Tony Sirico

Tony Sirico, born to a family of Italian descent, is best known for his role as Paulie “Walnuts” Gualtieri in The Sopranos. His Italian heritage is reflected in his portrayal of mob characters in various films and TV series.

Frank Vincent

Frank Vincent was a talented actor known for his roles in several Martin Scorsese films, including Goodfellas. Born to Italian parents, Vincent’s performances often depicted characters with strong Italian-American traits.

Steve Schirripa

Steve Schirripa, recognized for his role as Bobby Baccalieri in The Sopranos, has contributed to the portrayal of Italian-American characters in the media. His Italian connection is evident in both his on-screen and off-screen persona.

Vincent Pastore

Vincent Pastore, born to an Italian-American family in the Bronx, has played notable roles in films and TV series, including The Sopranos. His Italian heritage is part of his identity and has influenced his career.

Michael Imperioli

Michael Imperioli gained fame for his role as Christopher Moltisanti in The Sopranos. Born in Mt. Vernon, New York, to an Italian-American family, Imperioli’s heritage has played a role in shaping his career.

Burt Young

Burt Young, of Italian descent, is known for playing tough and rugged characters in films like Rocky. His Italian heritage has been a significant part of the roles he portrayed throughout his career.

William DeMeo

William DeMeo, a versatile actor, producer, and director, hails from an Italian-American background. His connection to Italian culture is evident in his work, and he has contributed to the representation of Italian-Americans in film.

Tony Darrow

Tony Darrow, known for his roles in Goodfellas and The Sopranos, is an actor of Italian descent. His performances often involve characters rooted in the Italian-American experience.

Michael Rispoli

Michael Rispoli, born in Nyack, New York, is an actor of Italian descent known for his roles in films like The Rum Diary. His heritage has played a role in shaping his identity and career in the entertainment industry.

Also read about Top Italian American Actresses

List of Italian American Actors | Famous Italian American Actors