Dennis Farina

Born:February 29, 1944

Place of Birth:Chicago, Illinois, USA

Died:July 22, 2013

Known For:Acting

Biography

Dennis Farina, born Donaldo Gugliermo Farina, was a talented American actor whose career spanned several decades in the entertainment industry. He was born on February 29, 1944, and left a lasting impact with his memorable performances on both the big and small screens. Farina often found himself playing roles that showcased his versatility, whether portraying tough mobsters or dedicated law enforcement officers.

One of Farina's most notable roles was as FBI Agent Jack Crawford in the thriller "Manhunter," where he captivated audiences with his portrayal of a determined investigator. His ability to bring depth and authenticity to his characters made him a sought-after actor in Hollywood. Farina's performance as mobster Jimmy Serrano in the comedy "Midnight Run" solidified his reputation as a versatile actor who could seamlessly transition between genres.

In addition to his film work, Farina made a significant impact on television, portraying characters such as Lieutenant Mike Torello in the crime drama "Crime Story" and NYPD Detective Joe Fontana in "Law & Order." His commanding presence and charisma on screen earned him a loyal fan base and critical acclaim for his performances. Farina's portrayal of Cousin Avi in the crime comedy "Snatch" showcased his comedic timing and sharp wit, further highlighting his range as an actor.

Farina's talents were not limited to acting, as he also ventured into hosting and narration. From 2008 to 2010, he lent his distinctive voice to the television program "Unsolved Mysteries" on Spike TV, captivating audiences with his storytelling abilities. His contributions to the show added a layer of intrigue and suspense, showcasing his versatility beyond acting. Farina's last major television role was in the HBO series "Luck," where he once again demonstrated his acting prowess in a compelling and complex character.

Throughout his career, Farina left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, with his performances continuing to resonate with audiences long after his passing on July 22, 2013. His legacy as a talented actor who brought authenticity and depth to his roles remains a testament to his dedication to his craft. Dennis Farina will always be remembered for his memorable performances and his enduring impact on the world of film and television.

Images

Filmography

Acting

Saving Private Ryan

Lieutenant Colonel Anderson

1998

As U.S. troops storm the beaches of Normandy, three brothers lie dead on the battlefield, with a fourth trapped behind enemy lines. Ranger captain John Miller and seven men are tasked with penetrating German-held territory and bringing the boy home.

Snatch

Avi

2000

Unscrupulous boxing promoters, violent bookmakers, a Russian gangster, incompetent amateur robbers and supposedly Jewish jewelers fight to track down a priceless stolen diamond.

Midnight Run

Jimmy Serrano, Chicago mobster

1988

A bounty hunter pursues a former Mafia accountant who embezzled $15 million of mob money. He is also being chased by a rival bounty hunter, the F.B.I., and his old mob boss after jumping bail.

Out of Sight

Marshall Sisco

1998

Meet Jack Foley, a smooth criminal who bends the law and is determined to make one last heist. Karen Sisco is a federal marshal who chooses all the right moves … and all the wrong guys. Now they're willing to risk it all to find out if there's more between them than just the law.

What Happens in Vegas

Richard Banger

2008

During a wild vacation in Las Vegas, career woman Joy McNally and playboy Jack Fuller come to the sober realization that they have married each other after a night of drunken abandon. They are then compelled, for legal reasons, to live life as a couple for a limited period of time. At stake is a large amount of money.

Get Shorty

Ray 'Bones' Barboni

1995

Chili Palmer is a Miami mobster who gets sent by his boss, the psychopathic "Bones" Barboni, to collect a bad debt from Harry Zimm, a Hollywood producer who specializes in cheesy horror films. When Chili meets Harry's leading lady, the romantic sparks fly. After pitching his own life story as a movie idea, Chili learns that being a mobster and being a Hollywood producer really aren't all that different.

Thief

Carl

1981

Frank is an expert professional safecracker, specialized in high-profile diamond heists. He plans to use his ill-gotten income to retire from crime and build a nice life for himself complete with a home, wife and kids. To accelerate the process, he signs on with a top gangster for a big score.

Bottle Shock

Maurice Cantavale

2008

Paris-based wine expert Steven Spurrier heads to California in search of cheap wine that he can use for a blind taste test in the French capital. Stumbling upon the Napa Valley, the stuck-up Englishman is shocked to discover a winery turning out top-notch chardonnay. Determined to make a name for himself, he sets about getting the booze back to Paris.

Big Trouble

Henry Desalvo

2002

The story of how a mysterious suitcase brings together, and changes, the lives of a divorced dad, an unhappy housewife, two hitmen, a pair of street thugs, two love struck teens, two FBI men and a psychedelic toad. Based on Pulitzer Prize-winning humorist Dave Barry's best-selling first novel, "Big Trouble."

Striking Distance

Capt. Nick Detillo

1993

Coming from a police family, Tom Hardy ends up fighting his uncle after the murder of his father. Tom believes the killer is another cop, and goes on the record with his allegations. Demoted to water-way duty Tom, along with new partner Jo Christman, navigate the three rivers looking for clues and discovering bodies. This time the victims are women Tom knows, he must find the killer to prove his innocence.

Romeo Is Bleeding

Nick Gazzara (uncredited)

1993

A corrupt cop gets in over his head when he tries to assassinate a beautiful Russian hit-woman.

Another Stakeout

Brian O'Hara

1993

A pair of immature detectives are joined by a pesky assistant district attorney in staking out a lakeside home where an important Mafia trial witness is believed to be heading.

Manhunter

Jack Crawford

1986

FBI Agent Will Graham, who retired after catching Hannibal Lecter, returns to duty to engage in a risky cat-and-mouse game with Lecter to capture a new killer.