In a somber turn of events, acclaimed actor Richard Romanus bid farewell to this world at the age of 80, leaving behind a legacy of tough guy characters and memorable performances. The Hollywood Reporter received confirmation of his passing from his son Robert, who revealed that Romanus breathed his last in a Volos, Greece hospital on December 23, 2023.
Romanus, renowned for his roles in iconic productions like “Mean Streets” (1973) and “The Sopranos” (1999-2002), leaves a void in the world of entertainment that may never be filled. While the cause of his demise remains undisclosed, his impact on the industry is undeniable.
In “Mean Streets,” a film that marked Martin Scorsese’s rise to fame, Romanus portrayed the gritty character of Michael Longo. His impeccable talent extended to television as well, with his portrayal of Richard LaPenna in “The Sopranos,” a show that has etched itself into the annals of television history.
Romanus wasn’t limited to just these roles; he left an indelible mark on cinema with appearances in films like “Point of No Return” (1993), “Oscar” (1991), and “Sitting Ducks” (1980). He lent his distinctive voice to animated classics such as “Wizards” (1977), “Heavy Metal” (1981), and “Hey Good Lookin'” (1982).
Television audiences also remember him from guest roles in hit series like “Starsky and Hutch” (1975-1979) and “Hawaii Five-O” (1968-1980), as well as his starring roles in “Strike Force” (1981-1982) and “Foul Play” (1981).
Born in Barre, Vermont, on February 8, 1943, and raised in Connecticut, Romanus initially pursued a philosophy degree from Xavier University in Cincinnati in 1964 before briefly venturing into law school. However, his passion for acting led him to the hallowed halls of the Actors Studio, where he honed his craft under the guidance of the renowned Lee Strasberg.
Romanus’s personal life included a marriage to actress and singer Tina Bohlman in 1967, which concluded in 1985. He shared a son, Robert, with Tina. His younger brother, Robert Romanus, achieved fame with his role in “Fast Times at Ridgemont High.” In 1985, Romanus tied the knot with Anthea Sylbert, an Oscar-nominated costume designer. The couple relocated to Skiathos, Greece, more than two decades ago and embraced the island life, even becoming honorary citizens of Skiathos in 2021.
Their time in Greece was marked by creative endeavors, including the writing and production of two Lifetime telefilms, “Giving Up the Ghost” (1998) and “If You Believe” (1999). Romanus also channeled his experiences into literary works, publishing several books set in the idyllic Greek backdrop, such as “Chrysalis” (2011), “Matoula’s Echo” (2014), and his reflective memoir, “Act III: A Small Island in the Aegean” (2011).
Richard Romanus may have left this world, but his enduring contributions to film, television, and literature ensure that his memory will live on. His tough-guy charisma and versatile talent will continue to inspire and captivate generations to come.
