Renowned character actor John Aprea, known for his memorable roles in iconic films and television shows, has passed away at the age of 83. Aprea's manager, Will Levine, confirmed that the actor died of natural causes in Los Angeles on August 5.

Aprea's career was marked by his extraordinary talent and versatility, with memorable performances that left a lasting impression on audiences. He brought the young Salvatore Tessio to life in The Godfather Part II, a role that showcased his charisma and acting prowess. Although he originally auditioned for the role of Michael Corleone in the first Godfather film, it was Al Pacino who ultimately secured the part. Nonetheless, Aprea's portrayal of Tessio alongside Abe Vigoda became an integral part of the iconic gangster saga.

Fans of the popular sitcom Full House will also remember Aprea for his beloved character, the exterminator dad of Jesse Katsopolis, portrayed by John Stamos. Aprea's portrayal of the caring and humorous father figure garnered him a dedicated following. He reprised this role in the 2017 Netflix reboot, delighting fans once again.

Aprea's talent extended beyond the big and small screens. He showcased his versatile acting skills during two stints on the long-running NBC soap opera Another World from 1989 to 1998. He took on two distinctive characters during his time on the show - the crook Lucas Castigliano and the wealthy shipping magnate Alexander Nikos. Both characters met a tragic end, shot to death by women.

One of Aprea's standout performances came in the acclaimed 1981 NBC miniseries The Gangster Chronicles, where he portrayed the mob boss Albert Anastasia. His portrayal received critical acclaim and further demonstrated his ability to bring complex characters to life.

The news of John Aprea's passing has left the entertainment industry and fans in mourning. His memorable contributions to film and television will forever be cherished, and his talent and spirit will be sorely missed. Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.