Hollywood Tough Guy: Gianni Russo's Life in The Godfather and Beyond

Gianni Russo’s first acting job is widely considered his most memorable. He played Carlo Rizzi, the ill-fated son-in-law of Vito Corleone, in The Godfather. Since then, his career has spanned more than 40 films, including Lepke, Any Given Sunday and Seabiscuit, as well as numerous television roles. Raised in New York’s Little Italy, Russo’s experience with the Mob began in his adolescence—delivering envelopes for Mafia boss Frank Costello. During a special conversation on April 16, 2019 at The Mob Museum, Russo discussed his firsthand experience: • On the set of The Godfather • Working for “The Prime Minister” Frank Costello • Fighting with actor James Caan • And much more Learn more about The Mob Museum, National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement at https://themobmuseum.org This program is presented by The Mob Museum and includes views and opinions of independent panelists and/or interviewees that do not necessarily reflect or represent the stance of The Mob Museum. Factual statements made by panelists/interviewees have also not been vetted by the Museum, and the Museum does not assert that such statements are truthful. All statements should be understood as the individual’s perspective rather than a view expressed by The Mob Museum. This program has been made available by The Mob Museum for the private, non-commercial use of its audience. Such private use is intended for informational and educational purposes only. This program is subject to copyright protection, and those seeking to utilize the program or portions thereof for anything other than private use should contact The Mob Museum at [email protected].