‘Mean Streets’ And ‘Sopranos’ Actor Dies At 80

Actor Richard Romanus is best known for his roles in films including “Mean Streets,” “Point of No Return,” “Wizards” and “Heavy Metal.” His last acting role was in Disney’s “The Young Black Stallion” in 2003.

Now, Romanus’s son, Robert, has shared the sad news that his father has died. He was 80 years old.

Robert told TMZ that his father died on December 23, 2023. He was at a private hospital in Volos, Greece, at the time of his death. He did not share an official cause of death.

Romanus was born in Vermont and originally considered a career in law. After one year of studying at the University of Connecticut Law School, he dropped out and moved to New York, where he studied with Lee Strasberg at the Actor’s Studio.

His first on-screen performance was in the 1968 film “The Ghastly One.” From there, he went on to act in the 1970 films “Mission: Impossible,” “Walk the Walk” and “Night Chase.”

Notable TV credits include “Foul Play,” “Strike Force,” “Johnny Bago” and “The Sopranos.”

Watch the video below for more about Romanus’s life and recent death.

Romanus was married two times. His first marriage was to Tina Romanus. They got married in 1967 and had one child together, but their marriage ultimately ended in divorce in 1975.

His second and final marriage was to Anthea Sylbert in 1985. They remained married until his death.

Romanus is survived by his wife, his son, and his younger brother, actor Robert Romanus.