James Caan, 'The Godfather' Actor, Passes Away at 82
Caan was also celebrated for his lead roles in ‘Elf,’ ‘Misery’ and more.
James Caan, Oscar-nominated screen actor, has passed away at the age of 82, his family shared in a statement on Twitter.
“It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Jimmy on the evening of July 6,” the statement read. “The family appreciates the outpouring of love and heartfelt condolences and asks that you continue to respect their privacy during this difficult time.”
Born in the Bronx in 1940, Caan moved to Los Angeles in the 1960s to begin working on his acting career. He made his major film debut in 1971’s Brian’s Song, portraying Chicago Bears halfback Brian Piccolo.
The following year, in 1972, Caan was cast in Francis Ford Coppola’s mobster flick The Godfather. Caan played Sonny Corleone, the oldest son of mob boss Vito Corleone, making him a household name.
Caan would go on to be celebrated for his performances Thief, Rollerball and the Stephen King-adaptation Misery.
In 2003, Caan brought himself before a younger audience, acting alongside Will Ferrell in Elf as his scrooge-like father.
“Jimmy was one of the greatest. Not only was he one of the best actors our business has ever seen, he was funny, loyal, caring and beloved,” Caan’s manager Matt DelPiano said in a statement.
“Our relationship was always friendship before business. I will miss him dearly and am proud to have worked with him all these years. My thoughts and prayers are with his entire family during this difficult time.”
