In this episode we talk about the intense and unforgettable scenes from Monster's Ball, focusing on P. Diddy's haunting execution. The conversation takes a turn and dives into the crime drama BILLY BATHGATE, starring Dustin Hoffman as Dutch Shultz. Giannis shares how eerily similar the film's storyline is to his own life. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info ....
Jun 25, 2025•41 min•Season 18Ep. 322
In this episode, Gianni and Jeannie discuss the show's rising popularity and delve into Gianni's personal and turbulent relationship with the legendary actor Marlon Brando. The conversation covers Brando's reclusive nature, his numerous children, and the shocking story of how his son Christian accidentally shot and killed Cheyenne Brando's boyfriend. The discussion also touches on the aftermath, including Christian's imprisonment and subsequent suicide, as well as Cheyenne's struggles with schiz...
Jun 18, 2025•43 min•Season 18Ep. 321
In this episode , Gianni and JEANIE welcome the legendary Vito Picone, a doo-wop singer renowned for his song 'Little Star' with The Elegants. As old friends, Gianni and Vito reminisce about their early years growing up in Staten Island, discussing their shared history at PS 39 and memories from local haunts like Moravian Cemetery and the Trio Club. The conversation covers Vito’s storied career spanning 67 years, from creating the hit 'Little Star' at age 16 to performing alongside legends like ...
Jun 11, 2025•52 min•Season 17Ep. 320
In this episode of the Hollywood Godfather Podcast, hosts Gianni Russo and Jeanie Raymond discuss listener mailbag requests and upcoming events. They emphasize the importance of audience participation for generating show ideas and invite listeners to rate and review the podcast on various platforms. Both co-hosts share anecdotes about their experiences with celebrity guests and memorable interactions, including Gianni's connections with Frank Sinatra and Marilyn Monroe. They highlight upcoming a...
Jun 04, 2025•46 min•Season 17Ep. 319
In this episode of the 'Hollywood Godfather' podcast, Gianni Russo shares his personal journey from overcoming polio as a child to becoming a notable figure, known for his role in 'The Godfather' and his connections in Hollywood. Co-host Jeannie Raymond joins him in discussing various topics, including their travel preferences, the state of airports, and political correctness. They also delve into Gianni's encounters with notable figures like Frank Sinatra, John Paul II, and Princess Grace. Gian...
May 28, 2025•41 min•Season 17Ep. 318
In this episode, Gianni shares personal anecdotes, including his battle with polio and tragic experiences within the Catholic Church. Gianni discusses his personal connections with past Popes and his thoughts on the new Pope, Leo the 14th, who he hopes will rejuvenate the Catholic Church. Jeanie and Gianni touch upon the community aspect of churches and the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, Gianni announces his initiative aiming to raise funds for scholarships to suppo...
May 21, 2025•43 min•Season 17Ep. 317
In this emotionally charged episode of the Hollywood Godfather podcast, Gianni Russo and co-host delve into personal anecdotes and memories of influential figures, particularly focusing on Frank Sinatra. They discuss Sinatra’s immense impact on Gianni’s life and career, culminating in a poignant tribute marking the 27th anniversary of Sinatra’s passing. The podcast also includes a heartwarming story about George Clooney’s generous gesture of gifting 14 friends $1 million each. Interspersed with ...
May 14, 2025•34 min•Season 17Ep. 316
In this episode of the Hollywood Godfather Podcast, the hosts pay tribute to the late Elaine Wynn, a notable figure in Las Vegas history, who passed away at the age of 82. The discussion covers her significant contributions to the arts, women's empowerment in the business world, and her role alongside her husband, Steve Wynn, in transforming Las Vegas. The hosts recount personal anecdotes and share insights into the generosity and impact of Elaine and Steve Wynn, including their influence on hos...
May 07, 2025•35 min•Season 17Ep. 315
In this episode of the Hollywood Godfather Podcast, hosts Gianni Russo and Jeanie Raymond welcome their guest, actor Al Sapienza. They celebrate recording over 320 hours of the podcast and discuss upcoming events and appearances, including conventions, shows, and movie productions. The conversation turns to political commentary, with discussions on government efficiency, welfare state concerns, and the role of the 1% in the economy. Al also shares personal anecdotes and insights into his busy ca...
Apr 30, 2025•42 min•Season 17Ep. 314
In this episode of the 'Hollywood Godfather' podcast, the hosts celebrate the birthday of their special guest, Patricia, who is also the mother of co-host Jeanie. The lively conversation covers various topics, from the challenges Gianni Russo faced growing up, including his fight with polio and a traumatic hospital incident, to his remarkable career in Hollywood and connections with influential figures like Frank Sinatra and Frank Costello. The discussion also includes humorous and heartwarming ...
Apr 23, 2025•49 min•Season 17Ep. 313
Episode 02 - Tough Guys See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
Apr 18, 2025•52 min•Season 1Ep. 2
Marlon Brando, The Godfather Mob Secrets with actor author Gianni Russo See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
Apr 16, 2025•46 min•Season 1Ep. 7
Gianni shares his perspective on what was accurate and what was dramatized for the big screen. We highlight the amazing performances by Debra Messing and Kathrine Narducci, discussing how both actresses brought their characters to life. Don’t miss this fascinating look at fact vs. fiction in Alto Knights! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info ....
Apr 13, 2025•42 min•Season 17Ep. 312
In this episode, we discuss the upcoming film ALTO KNIGHTS and the real history behind the legendary mob bosses it portrays. Frank Costello and Vito Genovese-two of the most powerful figures in organized crime- are both played by Robert De Niro. We explore their rivalry, their impact on the Mafia, and how Hollywood is bringing their story to the big screen. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info ....
Apr 13, 2025•42 min•Season 17Ep. 311
In this episode Gianni and Jeanie dive into Gianni's whirlwind month of performances - from Capo's South Boston to David Burke's Red Horse at Bernard's and Scratch Bar & Grill in New Rochelle. They share behind-the-scenes stories, the incredible people Gianni met along the way, and the unexpected opportunities that have come knocking since these events. Tune in for an exciting conversation about how each appearance has opened new doors and what's next on the horizon! See Privacy Policy at ht...
Mar 26, 2025•38 min•Season 17Ep. 310
In this mailbag episode Gianni answers listeners questions about everything from Evel Knievel to surprise pets on the set of The Godfather. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
Mar 19, 2025•47 min•Season 17Ep. 309
We meet with Fox News anchor and reporter, Eric Shawn. to discuss the series Frank Costello-The Real-Life Godfather. We dive into Costello's powerful influence, his connections to the Mafia and politics, and the lasting legacy of the man they called the Prime Minister of the Mafia. Don't miss this fascinating look at one of organized crime's most notorious figures. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info ....
Mar 12, 2025•41 min•Season 17Ep. 308
Join Gianni and Jeanie as they welcome the multi-talented talented Al Sapienza to the show! From his Iconic roles in the Sopranos, NCIS, Reacher and The Tracker, Al opens up about his fast-paced lifestyle, unwavering work ethic, and what truly makes him happy. Don't miss this captivating conversation about the life, career, and the drive behind his success! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info ....
Mar 05, 2025•42 min•Season 17Ep. 307
In this exciting episode, Gianni and Jeanie sit down to talk about Gianni's recent shows and the incredible venues he's performed at. From the classic charm of Capo's in South Boston to the elegant atmosphere of David Burke’s Red Horse at Bernard’s, and the vibrant energy of Scratch Bar & Grill in New Rochelle, Gianni shares memorable moments from each performance. But that's not all — they also give listeners a sneak peek at Gianni's upcoming appearances, so fans can mark their calendars an...
Feb 26, 2025•40 min•Season 17Ep. 306
Gianni & Jeanie answer our viewer’s and listener’s questions. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
Feb 19, 2025•40 min•Season 17Ep. 305
Joe’s guests this week are Actor, Entertainer and Author “The Hollywood Godfather” Gianni Russo as well as the former Executive Chef of The Hilltop Steakhouse and Author Donny Doward. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
Feb 12, 2025•24 min•Ep. 3
Gianni discusses his interviews with David Ferrugio, host of the podcast DEAD Talks. He shares stories about Death in the Polio Ward, A life lost at Gianni Russo’s State Street, and how Joe Kennedy’s plans fall apart. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
Jan 29, 2025•51 min•Season 17Ep. 303
We explore JFK's 1961 inaugural address that inspired a generation and Donald Trumps second inauguration in 2025 . Join us as we compare and contrast these historic moments and examine their lasting impact on American politics and society. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
Jan 22, 2025•39 min•Season 17Ep. 302
On todays show we congratulate Demi Moore on her Golden Globe win, discuss the legacy of Jimmy Carter and the enduring impact of Elvis Presley as Graceland celebrates his 90th birthday. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
Jan 15, 2025•41 min•Season 17Ep. 301
Gianni and Jeanie answer our listeners' questions. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
Jan 08, 2025•40 min•Season 17Ep. 300
We explore the remarkable career of the legendary defense attorney Barry Slotnick. Known for defending high profile cases such as the infamous "Subway Shooter" Bernie Goetz, as well as figures like John Gotti. He represented Steve Wynn, Bette Midler and even drafted Melanie Trump's prenuptial agreement. We will also discuss the new book that celebrates his extraordinary legal legacy. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not...
Jan 01, 2025•36 min•Season 16Ep. 299
Gianni & Jeanie discuss the differences between what it was like being a kid in the 50's, 70's and today. This episode will highlight how kids got along and interacted focusing on how children in earlier times were often stronger, more independent and less offended or pampered. We touch on the difficulties today's children are facing concerning their identities and the struggles they are facing. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.co...
Dec 25, 2024•46 min•Season 16Ep. 298
The Godfather Part II is unquestionably one of the greatest film sequels ever made. Now celebrating its 50th anniversary, it continues to be lauded as one of the greatest crime films ever. Actor Gianni Russo, who played Carlo Rizzi in The Godfather Part I and II, joins the podcast to discuss what it was like working on the legendary films, how Al made him cry in a scene fifteen times and what Mafia family helped him get the job on the film in the first place. All About Al: The Pacino Podcast is ...
Dec 18, 2024•33 min•Ep. 2
In this episode, we take a deep dive into the fascinating acting career of Gianni Russo, which began with his unforgettable role as Carlo Rizzi in the Godfather. From there, Gianni carved out a unique path in Hollywood appearing in iconic films like Striptease, Any Given Sunday, Seabiscuit, The Freshman, and Lepke to name a few. His talents extended to TV as well, with roles in The Rockford Files, Jake and the Fatman, Prison Break and many more. Join us as we explore the highlights of Gianni's d...
Dec 11, 2024•54 min•Season 16Ep. 297
In this episode, we dive into two fascinating stories from completely different worlds. First, we unpack the buzz surrounding the fight between boxing legend Mike Tyson and social media star-turned-fighter Jake Paul. Then we shift gears to explore the golden age of New York nightlife, focusing on the legendary friendship between Jackie Gleason, the king of comedy and Toots Shor the iconic restaurateur. From boxing rings to barstools, this episode is a knockout of stories and nostalgia! Subscribe...
Dec 04, 2024•44 min•Season 16Ep. 296
