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Actor James Caan, known for his iconic role as Sonny Corleone in “The Godfather,” died Wednesday. He was 82.
Caan’s death was confirmed by his family on Thursday through a statement on his official Twitter account. “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.”
A cause of death was not immediately available.
Caan was born in 1940 in the Bronx, New York, where he initially pursued a football career. During his enrollment at Hofstra University, he became interested in acting.
Caan landed several jobs in minor film and TV roles until he became a leading man in the 1965 film “Red Line 7000.” Caan went on to star in several films, including “El Dorado” and “The Rain People,” before landing his breakout role in “The Godfather.” Both “The Rain People” and “The Godfather” were directed by Francis Ford Coppola.
Caan received Academy Award and Golden Globe nominations for his roles as Sonny Corleone. Caan went on to star in several high-profile films and later landed the role of Paul Sheldon in the Stephen King adaptation of “Misery.”
Despite his notable dramatic roles, Caan also appeared in several comedies throughout his career, including “Honeymoon in Vegas,” Mickey Blue Eyes, “Bulletproof,” “Elf,” and “That’s My Boy.”
While his work in film and television will be remembered by fans, those close to Caan praised the actor for the man he was offscreen. Matt DelPiano, Caan’s manager, reflected on his close bond with the actor.
“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,” 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.”
Cann is survived by his five children, including “Hawaii Five-0” star Scott Caan.
Photo: AFP / GABRIEL BOUYS
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