Paul Sorvino

Paul Anthony Sorvino was an American actor recognized for portraying authority figures on both sides of the law. Primarily known for his roles as Paulie Cicero in Martin Scorsese's 1990 gangster film Goodfellas and as NYPD Sergeant Phil Cerreta on the second and third seasons of Law & Order. Sorvino also portrayed an array of father figures, including Juliet's father in Baz Luhrmann's 1996 film Romeo + Juliet. Other notable performances include roles in A Touch of Class (1973), Reds (1981), The Rocketeer (1991), Nixon (1995), and The Cooler (2003).

Born in New York City, Sorvino grew up in the Bensonhurst section of Brooklyn. After graduating from Lafayette High School, he studied at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy. Before acting, Sorvino worked as a copywriter and took voice lessons for 18 years. His acting career began with a debut in the 1964 musical Bajour. Sorvino continued to impress critics and audiences with his on-stage and on-screen performances up to the time of his death in 2022. From being nominated for a Tony Award in 1972 to playing notable roles in Law & Order and Goodfellas, Sorvino leaves a substantial acting legacy behind.