James Caan, The Godfather, Elf & Misery  Star, Dies Aged 82

Legendary actor James Caan, star of The Godfather and Misery, has died at the age of 82.

The news was announced by his family said in a statement on Twitter, saying “It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Jimmy on the evening of July 6.

It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Jimmy on the evening of July 6.

The family appreciates the outpouring of love and heartfelt condolences and asks that you continue to respect their privacy during this difficult time.

End of tweet

— James Caan (@James_Caan) July 7, 2022

His career spanned both TV and film, with roles in Elf, Las Vegas and Misery. Caan scored an Oscar nomination for his role as Sonny Corleone in The Godfather. It was arguably one of his biggest roles with The Godfather considered as one of the greatest movies of all time, recently celebrating its 50th anniversary.

He also earned an Emmy nom as the NFL back Brian Piccolo in ABC’s Brian’s Song, alongside Billy Dee Williams as Gale Sayers. It was the most-watched TV movie ever at that point, going on to win five Emmys including Outstanding Single Program – Drama or Comedy.

These two roles gave Caan worldwide recognition and he followed up with star turns in such films as Slither, Freebie and the Bean, Funny Lady, Chapter Two, Hide in Plain Sight, Honeymoon in Vegas, Mickey Blue Eyes and more. He also appeared in Mel Brooks’ Silent Movie and Warren Beatty’s Dick Tracy.

Caan was reportedly filming a few films at the time of his death including thriller Fast Charlie, Tom Burruss’ Redemption; and André Gordon’s Acre Beyond the Rye.