Meet the Cast of The Godfather

An offer you can't refuse.

Released on March 14, 1972
Drama Crime Adaptation Gangster

"The Godfather" is a classic American crime film that has left an indelible mark on the movie industry. Directed by Francis Ford Coppola and based on the novel by Mario Puzo, the film explores the inner workings of the Italian-American Corleone crime family, led by the patriarch Vito Corleone, played by Marlon Brando. The movie takes viewers on a journey through the life of the Corleone family, spanning the years 1945 to 1955, and showcases the complex dynamics of power, loyalty, and family values.

The film's impressive cast includes Al Pacino as Michael Corleone, the youngest son of Vito, who is initially reluctant to get involved in the family business but is eventually drawn into it after an assassination attempt on his father. James Caan also stars as Sonny Corleone, the hot-headed eldest son of Vito, who is eager to prove himself as a leader but struggles with his own demons. The characters are well-developed, and the actors bring them to life in a way that makes viewers feel deeply connected to their stories.

The plot of "The Godfather" revolves around the family's struggle to maintain their power and influence in the face of changing times. When Vito is targeted for assassination, Michael steps in to take control, launching a campaign of bloody revenge against the family's enemies. The film is known for its iconic scenes, such as the horse's head in the bed and the baptism scene, where Michael is baptized while his enemies are being murdered. These scenes are not only memorable but also serve to highlight the complex and often contradictory nature of the characters and their motivations. Overall, "The Godfather" is a must-watch for anyone interested in American crime films and a classic example of storytelling at its finest.

The Godfather is part of the The Godfather Collection.

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Full Cast of The Godfather

Marlon Brando

as Don Vito Corleone

Marlon Brando's portrayal of Don Vito Corleone in 'The Godfather' is nothing short of iconic. His nuanced performance, marked by a quiet intensity and subtle gestures, brought the character to life in a way that has left an indelible mark on cinema history. Brando's mastery of the role is evident in every scene, from his measured delivery of dialogue to his understated physicality. His performance is a testament to his incredible talent and his ability to fully immerse himself in a character, making Don Vito Corleone one of the most memorable and beloved figures in film.

Al Pacino

as Michael Corleone

Al Pacino's portrayal of Michael Corleone in 'The Godfather' is a masterclass in subtlety and nuance. Initially appearing as a war hero, distinct from his family's criminal empire, Pacino's Michael gradually transforms into a ruthless mafia boss. His performance is marked by a quiet intensity, with his eyes often conveying more than his words. The metamorphosis of Michael Corleone is one of the most compelling character arcs in cinematic history, and Pacino's understated yet powerful performance is a significant reason why.

James Caan

as Sonny Corleone

James Caan's portrayal of Sonny Corleone in 'The Godfather' is nothing short of iconic. As the hot-headed and impulsive eldest son of the Corleone family, Caan brings a raw intensity and explosive energy to the role. His performance is marked by a palpable sense of danger and unpredictability, making Sonny a captivating and unforgettable character. Caan's ability to convey Sonny's complex emotions, from his fierce loyalty to his family to his explosive anger, is truly remarkable and adds a powerful dynamic to the film's narrative.

Robert Duvall

as Tom Hagen

Robert Duvall's portrayal of Tom Hagen in 'The Godfather' is a masterclass in subtlety and nuance. As the adopted son and consigliere of the Corleone family, Duvall's Hagen is the calm, level-headed voice of reason in a world of chaos and violence. His performance is understated, yet powerful, as he navigates the treacherous waters of the mafia world with a quiet intelligence and a steady hand. Despite not being a blood relative, Duvall's Hagen is fiercely loyal to the Corleones, and his unwavering dedication to the family is one of the most compelling aspects of his character. Overall, Duvall's performance is a standout in a film filled with exceptional acting, and it is a testament to his talent as an actor.

Richard S. Castellano

as Clemenza

Richard S. Castellano's portrayal of Peter Clemenza in 'The Godfather' is nothing short of iconic. His performance is a masterclass in character acting, as he brings to life the loyal and ruthless enforcer of the Corleone family. Castellano's Clemenza is both menacing and endearing, a man who is fiercely loyal to his family and will stop at nothing to protect them. His memorable lines, such as "Leave the gun, take the cannoli," have become cultural touchstones, cementing Castellano's place in cinematic history.

Diane Keaton

as Kay Adams

Diane Keaton's performance as Kay Adams in "The Godfather" is a standout in a film filled with memorable characters and unforgettable moments. As the girlfriend and eventual wife of Michael Corleone, played by Al Pacino, Keaton brings a sense of innocence and purity to the role that serves as a stark contrast to the dark and violent world of the Corleone family. Keaton's portrayal of Kay is both strong and vulnerable, as she struggles to come to terms with the reality of Michael's life and the dangerous consequences that come with it. Despite the heavy subject matter, Keaton brings a sense of lightness and humor to the role, making her character all the more endearing to audiences. Her performance is a testament to her talent as an actress and her ability to hold her own against some of Hollywood's greatest stars.

Talia Shire

as Connie Corleone Rizzi

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Gianni Russo

as Carlo Rizzi

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Sterling Hayden

as Captain McCluskey

Sterling Walter Hayden, born Sterling Relyea Walter, was an American actor and author. He didn't really harbor any as...

John Marley

as Jack Woltz

John Marley (October 17, 1907 – May 22, 1984) was an American actor who was known for his role as Phil Cavalleri in L...

Richard Conte

as Barzini

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Richard Conte (March 24, 1910 – April 15, 1975) was an American actor. He ap...

Al Lettieri

as Sollozzo

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Alfred Lettieri (February 24, 1928–October 18, 1975) was an American actor...

Abe Vigoda

as Sal Tessio

Tall, dour-faced and slouch-shouldered character actor Abraham Charles Vigoda (February 24, 1921 – January 26, 2016) ...

John Cazale

as Fredo Corleone

John Holland Cazale was an American actor. He appeared in five films during six years that were nominated for the Aca...

Rudy Bond

as Cuneo

Rudolph Bond (October 10, 1912 – March 29, 1982) was an American actor who was active from 1947 until his death. His ...

Al Martino

as Johnny Fontane

Al Martino was born on October 7, 1927 and passed away 15 years ago at the age of 82 on October 13, 2009.

Morgana King

as Mama Corleone

Morgana King was born on July 4, 1930 and passed away 6 years ago at the age of 87 on March 22, 2018.

Lenny Montana

as Luca Brasi

Tall and solidly built, this Italian-American professional wrestler turned actor was born Lenny Passaforo in Brooklyn...

John Martino

as Paulie Gatto

John Martino was born on May 5, 1937 and is currently 87 years old.

Salvatore Corsitto

as Bonasera

Richard Bright

as Neri

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Richard J. Bright (June 28, 1937 – February 18, 2006) was an American acto...

Alex Rocco

as Moe Greene

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Tony Giorgio

as Bruno Tattaglia

Tony Giorgio was born in Herkimer, NY on September 27, 1923. He grew up in Schenectady, NY during The Great Depressio...

Vito Scotti

as Nazorine

Vito Giusto Scozzari (January 26, 1918 – June 5, 1996), also known as Vito Scotti, was an American character actor wh...

Tere Livrano

as Theresa Hagen

Victor Rendina

as Philip Tattaglia

Jeannie Linero

as Lucy Mancini

Julie Gregg

as Sandra Corleone

Julie Gregg was born on January 24, 1937 in Niagara Falls, New York, USA as Beverly Scalzo. She was an actress, known...

Ardell Sheridan

as Mrs. Clemenza

Simonetta Stefanelli

as Apollonia - Sicilian Sequence

Simonetta Stefanelli (born 30 November 1954) is an Italian actress, entrepreneur and fashion designer. Internationall...

Angelo Infanti

as Fabrizio - Sicilian Sequence

Angelo Infanti (16 February 1939 – 12 October 2010) was an Italian film actor. He appeared in more than 90 films betw...

Corrado Gaipa

as Don Tommasino - Sicilian Sequence

Corrado Gaipa was an Italian actor and voice actor. Born in Palermo, Sicily, Gaipa enrolled in the Silvio d’Amico Ac...

Franco Citti

as Calo - Sicilian Sequence

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Franco Citti (born 23 April 1935 in Rome) is an Italian actor. He came to ...

Saro Urzì

as Vitelli - Sicilian Sequence

Saro Urzì was born on February 24, 1913, died November 2, 1979 (age 66) in San Giuseppe Vesuviano, Italy. He was an actor.

Roman Coppola

as Boy on Street Who Attended Funeral (uncredited)

Roman François Coppola (April 22, 1965) is the son of Francis Ford Coppola and an American filmmaker, screenwriter, p...

Sofia Coppola

as Michael Francis Rizzi (uncredited)

Sofia Carmina Coppola (born May 14, 1971) is an American filmmaker and actress. The youngest child and only daughter ...

Don Costello

as Don Victor Stracci (uncredited)

Italia Coppola

as Extra in Wedding Scene (uncredited)

Gray Frederickson

as Cowboy on the Set at Woltz's Studio (uncredited)

Ron Gilbert

as Usher in Bridal Party (uncredited)

Sonny Grosso

as Cop Outside Hospital (uncredited)

Sonny Grosso was born on July 21, 1930 and passed away 4 years ago at the age of 89 on January 22, 2020.

Louis Guss

as Don Zaluchi (uncredited)

Louis Guss was born on January 4, 1918 and passed away 16 years ago at the age of 90 on September 29, 2008.

Randy Jurgensen

as Sonny's Killer #1 (uncredited)

Randy Jurgensen was born on December 7, 1933 and is currently 90 years old.

Tony King

as Tony - Stablehand (uncredited)

Tony King was born on May 6, 1947 and is currently 77 years old.

Tony Lip

as Wedding Guest (uncredited)

Tony Lip was born on July 30, 1930 and passed away 11 years ago at the age of 82 on January 4, 2013.

Joe Lo Grippo

as Sonny's Bodyguard (uncredited)

Joe Lo Grippo was born on April 3, 1939 and is currently 85 years old.

Lou Martini Jr.

as Boy at Wedding (uncredited)

Raymond Martino

as Corleone Family Member (uncredited)

Joseph Medaglia

as Priest at Baptism (uncredited)

Carol Morley

as Night Nurse (uncredited)

Rick Petrucelli

as Lou - Sollozzo's Driver (uncredited)

Sal Richards

as Drunk (uncredited)

Tom Rosqui

as Rocco Lampone (uncredited)

Tom Rosqui was born on June 12, 1928 and passed away 33 years ago at the age of 62 on April 12, 1991.

Frank Sivero

as Street Extra (uncredited)

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Frank Sivero (born January 6, 1952) is an American character actor, perhap...

Filomena Spagnuolo

as Extra in Wedding Scene (uncredited)

Joe Spinell

as Willi Cicci (uncredited)

Joe Spinell was born Joseph J. Spagnuolo in Manhattan, New York of Italian immigrant parents, and the last of six ch...

Gabriele Torrei

as Enzo the Baker (uncredited)

Nick Vallelonga

as Wedding Party Guest (uncredited)

Nick Vallelonga was born on September 13, 1959 and is currently 65 years old.

Conrad Yama

as Fruit Vendor (uncredited)

Conrad Yama was born on October 8, 1919 and passed away 14 years ago at the age of 90 on March 10, 2010.

MAHAD

as SONNY

Crew of The Godfather

Discover the backstage crew of The Godfather →