Hollywood mourns the loss of John Aprea, a versatile character actor celebrated for his memorable performances in iconic films and television series. Aprea, best known for his portrayal of the young Salvatore Tessio in The Godfather Part II and as John Stamos’ on-screen father in Full House, passed away on August 5 in Los Angeles at the age of 83. His manager, Will Levine, confirmed that Aprea died of natural causes.
Born in Englewood, New Jersey, on March 4, 1941, to Italian immigrant parents, Aprea embarked on a journey that would lead him to become a cherished figure in Hollywood. After spending a few years in Italy, Aprea returned to New Jersey, graduating from Dwight Morrow High School in 1959, where he showcased his athletic prowess on the football field.
Aprea’s acting career took off in the 1960s when he moved to New York City and later to Los Angeles. One of his earliest roles was as a hitman in the Steve McQueen classic Bullitt (1967). He continued to build his filmography with appearances in The Grasshopper (1970) and Curtis Hanson’s Sweet Kill (1972), before landing the role that would define his career in The Godfather Part II (1974).
In The Godfather Part II, Aprea played a younger version of the mobster Tessio, a role originally portrayed by Abe Vigoda in the first film. Aprea fondly recalled seeking advice from Vigoda, who simply told him to “have a good time, kid.” This role, according to Aprea, was the pinnacle of his acting career.
Aprea’s television career was equally impressive. He starred as the patriarch in NBC’s The Montefuscos (1975), though the series was short-lived. He also had notable roles on the soap opera Another World, playing two characters over a decade, both of whom met dramatic ends. Aprea made his mark on primetime television with significant roles in Matt Houston (1982-84), Falcon Crest (1987), and Knots Landing (1988).
His versatility as an actor was further demonstrated through guest appearances on popular shows such as The Sopranos, Cold Case, NYPD Blue, CSI, and Wonder Woman. His film credits also include The Idolmaker (1980), New Jack City (1991), The Stepford Wives (1975), American Anthem (1986), and The Game (1997).
Aprea is survived by his third wife, Betsy, to whom he was married for 25 years, his daughter Nicole from his previous marriage to actress Ninon Aprea, and his stepchildren Marika and Valentino. He was predeceased by his sister, Rosanna.