Anecdotes

Older brother of actor Joseph Campanella.

Growing up in New York speaking Italian before he learned English, he later worked as a civilian interpreter during WWII deciphering Italian and Sicilian dialects for the U.S. government.

Coached Robert De Niro to Oscar-winning success with his Sicilian dialog in Le parrain II (1974).

Originally set out to be a concert pianist. His father was a musician and piano builder and played in orchestras backing up such musical luminaries Jimmy Durante, Al Jolson and Eddie Cantor.

Had minor roles in a large number of director Garry Marshall's films.

Was in S1 ep10 of "Mannix" that also starred his younger brother Joseph, although they never appeared together in any scene.

During World War II he worked as a civilian interpreter, deciphering Italian and Sicilian dialects for the U.S. government.

Enrolled at Manhattan College as a drama major.

Helped Robert De Niro with the Sicilian dialog in "The Godfather Part II.".

Tall and imposing-looking Italian-American character 'tough guy' who contributed hundreds of roles to Broadway, film and TV, playing both cops and pugnacious bad guys.

Died of complications from Crohn's disease, a disease that causes inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract.

Once co-hosted a radio show titled "Offbeat Notes on Music" for KCSN.

Uncle of Rob Campanella and Dominic Campanelli.

Studied drama at Manhattan college.

He was cremated at Neptune Society in West Covina, California. His ashes were sprinkled into the Pacific Ocean afterwards.