Abe Vigoda

Abe Vigoda, an American actor, is best known for his iconic roles as Phil Fish in "Barney Miller" and Sal Tessio in "The Godfather.".

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Profession :

Movie Actor

Birthday :

February 24, 1921

Star Sign :

Pisces

Death Date:

January 26, 2016

Age :

94

Birthplace :

New York, New York

Abe Vigoda, known for his iconic roles as Salvatore Tessio in “The Godfather” (1972) and Detective Phil Fish in “Barney Miller,” passed away in 2016 at the age of 94. Throughout his illustrious career, Vigoda left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, captivating audiences with his versatility and memorable performances.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Vigoda’s passion for acting led him to study at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. His talent shone brightly on both stage and screen, with notable Broadway appearances in “Death of a Salesman” and “The Sunshine Boys.”

Vigoda’s breakthrough role came in the 1970s when he portrayed the unforgettable Detective Phil Fish in the hit sitcom “Barney Miller.” His portrayal of the wise-cracking, yet compassionate detective earned him widespread recognition and two Emmy Award nominations.

Beyond “Barney Miller,” Vigoda graced the silver screen with his presence in numerous acclaimed films. His portrayal of Sal Tessio in “The Godfather” and Moe Greene in “The Godfather Part II” solidified his status as a Hollywood legend. Vigoda’s talent extended to comedic roles, as seen in “Cannonball Run II” and “Look Who’s Talking.”

Vigoda’s contributions to the entertainment world were duly recognized. He received a Golden Globe Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture for his role in “The Godfather” and shared a Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture for “The Godfather Part II.”

Off-screen, Vigoda was a devoted family man, married to Beatrice Schy until her passing in 1992. He was also an accomplished artist, expressing his creativity through painting and drawing.

Abe Vigoda’s legacy lives on, remembered for his distinctive appearance, captivating performances, and unwavering dedication to his craft. His contributions to the world of entertainment continue to inspire and entertain audiences, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of fans worldwide.