Ladies and gentlemen, we’ve got some bittersweet news to share from the world of television. Another beloved cast member of the classic show *Full House* has passed away, just two years after the loss of the legendary Bob Saget.
John Aprea, the actor who brought Uncle Nick Katsopolis to life, died at the age of 83 on August 5th, according to a statement from his manager. Will Levine, Aprea’s longtime manager, shared that the actor died of natural causes in Los Angeles, marking the end of a remarkable career that spanned decades.
John Aprea wasn’t just Uncle Nick; his career was filled with memorable roles that showcased his talent and versatility. Many might remember him for his early role in *The Godfather* series. Now, here’s a little backstory for you: Aprea was bartending in Los Angeles when a chance encounter with director Francis Ford Coppola led him to audition for the role of Michael Corleone.
While Al Pacino ultimately landed that iconic part, Aprea made his mark as mobster Tessio in the sequel. That role was just the beginning of a career that saw him in films like *The Montefuscos*, *The Idolmaker*, and *Matt Houston*.
But his talents weren’t confined to the silver screen. Aprea made his presence known on TV as well, with roles in popular shows like *Mannix*, *NYPD Blue*, *The Rookies*, and even *The Sopranos*. He also had a knack for playing the tough guy, earning him roles in *New Jack City* and the critically acclaimed *The Gangster Chronicles*, where he portrayed mobster Albert Anastasia.
Later in his career, Aprea reprised his role as Uncle Nick in the 2017 reboot of *Full House* on Netflix, delighting fans with his return to the character that had endeared him to so many.
His work in *The Godfather* continued to open doors, leading to appearances in films like *The Manchurian Candidate* and *Caged Heat*.
Born in Englewood, New Jersey, in 1941 to Italian immigrant parents, Aprea’s journey to Hollywood was anything but ordinary. Growing up, his family cherished their Neapolitan roots, a connection that would later influence his life and career.
Despite having no formal training, Aprea pursued acting with determination, eventually enrolling in theater school with the support of his sister. He worked various jobs, from janitor to bouncer, to support himself while chasing his dreams.
John Aprea is survived by his third wife, Betsy Garci, his daughter Nicole from his previous marriage to actress Cherie Latimer, and stepchildren Marika Parker and Valentino Garci. The world may have lost a talented actor, but the legacy of his work will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of fans and the annals of television history.
