The Godfather Part II and Full House star John Aprea dies aged 83-Brooke Ivey Johnson-Entertainment – Metro

John Aprea has died at 83 years old (Picture: Michael Boardman/WireImage)

Actor John Aprea, known for his roles in Godfather Part II and the hit series Full House, has died at 83 years old.

Known for playing the role of young Salvatore Tessio in the iconic Francis Ford Coppola film, Aprea got his start in the Steve McQueen’s 1968 film Bullitt.

He was also known for his recurring role as Nick Katsopolis on Full House from 1988 to 1991.

His other notable roles included: Sheriff Jack North on Falcon Crest (1987), Manny Vasquez on Knots Landing (1988), Lucas Castigliano on Another World (1989 to 1992).

He also appeared in films like The Stepford Wives (1975), New Jack City (1991), The Game (1997), and The Manchurian Candidate (2004).

Aprea’s work in The Godfather franchise – which he called the high point of his career – came about by sheer luck.

Aprea is best known for his role as Salvatore ‘Sal’ Tessio in The Godfather: Part II (Picture: Getty Images)

The young actor met Francis Ford Coppola while tending bar in Los Angeles, leaving enough of an impression on the director that he was asked to audition for the part of Michael Corleone in The Godfather.

Though the role ultimately went to Al Pacino, Coppola was impressed by Aprea and later requested he return to play young Salvatore Tessio in the franchise’s second installment.

The actor’s manager reportedly said that Aprea died at home surrounded by family, according to TMZ.

This is a breaking news story, more to follow soon… Check back shortly for further updates.

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