‘The French Connection’ Actor Tony Lo Bianco Dies Of Prostate Cancer

Tony Lo Bianco, who played the beloved role of Sal Boca in the hit film ‘The French Connection,” has died at the age of 87. Lo Bianco was reportedly battling prostate cancer, and succumbed to the complications from the disease on June 11th.

The actor reportedly passed away in Poolesville, Maryland. Poolesville in located in the western portion of Montgomery County.

Dean Martin’s daughter Deana Martin released the following statement on the death of the late actor,

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of our dear friend, coach, and teacher Tony Lo Bianco. Our hearts ache with his absence. He was a brilliant actor, director, and producer, leaving a lasting imprint on the world of entertainment. He adored his wife Alyse, his family was his pride, and his patriotism for his country was unwavering. God must have needed another angel. Rest in peace Pallie, Deana Martin & John Griffeth.”

Deana MArtin X Statement Via Slingshot News

Born to Sicilian immigrants in Brooklyn, Lo Bianco was a role model for those who were not born into rich families, or with many resources available to them. He came from nothing, and worked tirelessly to become a well-known and respected actor.

The late actor attended William E. Grady CTE High School. After his formal education, the Italian-American legend started his career in acting by attending a Dramatic Workshop.

He would eventually get his start in acting at the Triangle Theater, performing in the Broadway musicals “Incident at Vichy,” “Tartuffe,” and “The Royal Hunt of the Sun.”

The Role Of A Lifetime

In 1970, Lo Bianco signed on the play a role in the now cult-classic film “The Honeymoon Killers,” which exploded his career in film to new heights. The first film the actor worked on was a 1965 film entitled “The Sex Perils of Paulette.”

Just one year later, the actor would land the role of a lifetime. Lo Bianco acted in his signature achievement film “The French Connection,” in 1971.

Lo Bianco won an Obie Award in 1975, was nominated for a Tony award in 1985, won an Outer Critics Circle Award in 1985, and even won a Daytime Emmy Award in 1984.

He served as the national spokesperson for the Order Sons of Italy in America. He also received a Humanitarian Award of the Boys’ Town of Italy. Lo Bianco was dedicated to celebration of his heritage for his entire life.