‘The Godfather’ star John Aprea dead at 83, John Aprea, the distinguished actor renowned for his portrayal of a young Salvatore “Sal” Tessio in “The Godfather Part II,” passed away earlier this month. He was 83 years old. Aprea’s death was confirmed by his manager, Will Levine, who reported that the actor died of natural causes on Monday, August 5, in Los Angeles, surrounded by his loved ones.

Levine expressed deep sadness over Aprea’s passing, describing him as “an incredibly talented actor” who was cherished by those who knew him. “One of the classiest guys I knew,” Levine told Fox News Digital, reflecting on Aprea’s impact both as a performer and as a person.

Born to Italian immigrants in Englewood, New Jersey, in 1941, Aprea’s journey into the world of acting began with his breakthrough role in the 1968 Steve McQueen classic, “Bullitt.” This role marked the start of a notable career that would see him become a familiar face in both film and television.

Aprea’s most iconic role came when he was cast as the younger version of Salvatore Tessio in “The Godfather Part II,” the celebrated sequel to Francis Ford Coppola’s legendary film. This role connected him to a piece of cinematic history, as Tessio, a character portrayed by Abe Vigoda in the original film, played a pivotal role in the unfolding drama of the Corleone family saga. To prepare for his role, Aprea reached out to Vigoda for insights, who offered a memorable piece of advice: “I don’t know what I did. Just have a good time, kid.” This simple guidance underscored the collaborative spirit of the acting profession and helped Aprea deliver a memorable performance.

In addition to his work in “The Godfather Part II,” Aprea’s career spanned a variety of genres and roles. He became a familiar face in crime sagas and soap opera dramas, where he made a significant impact. Aprea’s portrayal of Alexander Nikos and Lucas Castigliano on the long-running daytime soap opera “Another World” showcased his versatility and ability to connect with audiences in diverse ways.

Aprea’s talent extended beyond the realm of drama and crime. He also took on lighter roles, including a notable appearance as John Stamos’ father on the beloved family sitcom “Full House.” His performance on “Full House” endeared him to a new generation of viewers, and he reprised this role when the series was revived as “Fuller House” on Netflix, continuing to share his charm and charisma with fans.

John Aprea’s personal life was marked by his enduring relationship with his wife, Betsy Graci, with whom he shared 25 years of marriage. He is also survived by his daughter, Nicole, from a previous marriage, as well as stepchildren Marika Parker and Valentino Graci. Aprea’s family was a significant part of his life, and his legacy will continue through them.

The actor’s passing marks the end of a remarkable career that touched many lives through his performances and personal interactions. Aprea’s contributions to film and television, coupled with his reputation as a kind and talented individual, have left an indelible mark on the industry. His performances will continue to be remembered and celebrated, and his legacy will endure in the hearts of those who knew him and admired his work.

John Aprea’s career was a testament to his dedication and skill as an actor. From his early days in “Bullitt” to his iconic role in “The Godfather Part II,” and his later successes on television, Aprea’s work remains a significant part of entertainment history. His passing is a reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the lasting impact of a career well-lived.