John Aprea, Actor Known for The Godfather Part II and Full House, Dies at 83

• John Aprea, known for his roles in The Godfather Part II and Full House, has died at 83.
• Aprea, a New Jersey native, was renowned for his diverse acting career including notable appearances in The Idolmaker and New Jack City.
• His extensive television work featured roles on Another World and The Montefuscos, showcasing his versatility in both drama and comedy.
• Aprea’s career spanned several decades with roles in classics like Bullitt and The Gangster Chronicles.

John Aprea, the distinguished actor celebrated for his role as young Salvatore Tessio in The Godfather Part II and the father of John Stamos’ character on Full House, has died at the age of 83. Aprea died on August 5 in Los Angeles due to natural causes, as confirmed by his manager, Will Levine.

Born on March 4, 1941, in Englewood, New Jersey, Aprea was the son of Italian immigrants. His early years were spent in Italy before returning to New Jersey, where he graduated from Dwight Morrow High School in 1959, having excelled in football. Aprea’s acting journey began in New York City in the early 1960s before he moved to Los Angeles, where he made a notable impact in the film industry.

Aprea’s career is marked by a variety of memorable roles across both film and television. His portrayal of the young Salvatore Tessio in The Godfather Part II remains a highlight of his career.

Despite not landing the role of Michael Corleone in the original The Godfather—a part that ultimately went to Al Pacino—Aprea’s role in the sequel was a significant milestone.

In addition to his iconic role in The Godfather Part II, Aprea was known for his work in The Idolmaker (1980), where he played the brother of Ray Sharkey’s music promoter, and New Jack City (1991), where he portrayed a mobster.

His television career was equally impressive, with notable roles on the NBC soap operas Another World, where he played both a crook and a shipping magnate, and the short-lived comedy The Montefuscos.

Aprea’s recurring role as the exterminator father of Stamos’ character, Jesse Katsopolis, on Full House (1988-91) and its 2017 Netflix reboot highlighted his ability to seamlessly blend drama with comedy. His contributions to the screen extended to guest appearances on popular series such as Mannix, The Rookies, and The Sopranos, as well as film roles in classics like Bullitt (1967) and The Stepford Wives (1975).

Throughout his career, Aprea worked with renowned directors and actors,. His extensive resume also includes significant roles in Matt Houston, Falcon Crest, and Knots Landing, among others.

John Aprea is survived by his third wife, Betsy, with whom he shared 25 years, his daughter Nicole from a previous marriage to actress Ninon Aprea, and his stepchildren Marika and Valentino. He was predeceased by his sister, Rosanna.