Jack La Rue

Jack La Rue, born as Gaspare Biondolillo, was a noted American film and stage actor. Born on May 3, 1902 in Lercara Friddi, Sicily, he started his acting career in Broadway plays from 1923 to 1931. Gaspare adopted 'Jack La Rue' as his stage name, influenced by his uncle's name and mother's maiden name. Jack moved to Hollywood in the 1930s where he featured predominantly in villainous roles for the majority of his acting career, occasionally delivering stand-out performances, such as that of a priest in Frank Borzage's A Farewell to Arms. He had confessed to turning down roles in The Godfather (1972) and some parts in the TV series The Untouchables due to their portrayal of Italian-Americans. Jack La Rue's film journey extended from 1923 till 1977, marking an impactful presence in the industry. He passed away due to a heart attack at Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, California on January 11, 1984.