John Aprea, an accomplished actor known for his roles in "The Godfather Part II" and "Full House," has died at the age of 83.
According to USA TODAY, Aprea passed away on August 5, 2024, in Los Angeles due to natural causes. His manager, Will Levine, confirmed the news on August 18.
Aprea's career in entertainment spanned several decades, during which he made significant contributions to film and television. Born to Italian immigrants in New Jersey, Aprea began his journey in Hollywood with his film debut in the 1968 crime thriller "Bullitt," starring alongside Steve McQueen, Jacqueline Bisset, and Robert Vaughn.
Aprea's breakthrough came in 1974 when he joined the cast of "The Godfather Part II," the sequel to Francis Ford Coppola's critically acclaimed crime drama. In the film, Aprea portrayed a younger version of Sal Tessio, a character originally played by Abe Vigoda in the first installment.
The actor's preparation for the role included a memorable interaction with Vigoda. According to Levine, when Aprea called Vigoda for advice on playing the character, Vigoda responded, "I don't know what I did. Just have a good time, kid." This exchange exemplifies the camaraderie and support within the acting community.
"The Godfather Part II" was a massive success, both critically and commercially. The film grossed $47.8 million at the box office and went on to win six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, at the 1975 ceremony.
Following his success in "The Godfather Part II," Aprea continued to build an impressive portfolio of roles across various genres. He took on a leading role in the family comedy "The Montefuscos" in 1975 and appeared in the Bob Marcucci biopic "The Idolmaker" in 1980.
One of Aprea's most recognizable television roles came in the popular sitcom "Full House." He played Nick Katsopolis, the father of John Stamos' character Jesse Katsopolis, appearing in several episodes from 1988 to 1991. Aprea's portrayal of the lovable grandfather endeared him to a new generation of viewers.
In 2017, Aprea reprised his role as Nick Katsopolis in the Netflix reboot "Fuller House," demonstrating the enduring appeal of both the character and the actor. His most recent work included a recurring role on the Peacock soap opera "The Bay," where he played Jack Madison from 2020 to 2023.
Throughout his career, Aprea showcased his versatility as an actor, moving effortlessly between dramatic roles in films like "The Godfather Part II" and comedic parts in sitcoms like "Full House." His ability to adapt to different genres and mediums contributed to his longevity in the entertainment industry.
Aprea's personal life was as rich as his professional one. He is survived by his longtime wife, Betsy Graci, his daughter Nicole, and his stepchildren, Marika Parker and Valentino Graci. The actor's family life remained an important aspect of his identity alongside his successful career in Hollywood.
John Aprea's passing marks the end of a remarkable career that spanned over five decades. His contributions to cinema and television, from his early days in "Bullitt" to his later appearances in "Fuller House," have left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
Aprea's ability to bring depth and authenticity to his roles, whether playing a young mafioso or a doting grandfather, showcased his talent and versatility as an actor. His legacy will continue to be celebrated by fans, colleagues, and future generations of performers inspired by his work.
