Actor Tony Lo Bianco, best known for his standout role in the movie The French Connection, has died at age 87. Lo Bianco passed away last night at his cherished horse farm in Maryland, concluding his battle with prostate cancer. By his side during his final moments was his devoted wife, Alyse (Fox).

Born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1936, Tony Lo Bianco found his passion for acting early in life. He was inspired by his high school drama teacher, Patricia Jacobsen, which set him on a path toward an illustrious career in the performing arts. His initial foray into professional acting began as an understudy in the 1964 Broadway production of Incident at Vichy.

Lo Bianco’s illustrious career began with his film debut in 1965's The Sex Perils of Paulette and his TV debut in an episode of Get Smart in 1966 (NYPost). However, it was his role as mobster Sal Boca in William Friedkin’s 1971 neo-noir action film, The French Connection, that catapulted him to fame. The film was a critical success, winning five Academy Awards, including Best Picture (Fox).

Throughout his career, Lo Bianco appeared in a myriad of films such as The Honeymoon Killers, The Seven-Ups, The Juror, Nixon, Kill the Irishman, and Somewhere in Queens (Fox). His versatility as an actor also extended to television, where he graced screens in popular shows like The Twilight Zone, Murder, She Wrote, Law & Order, and Law & Order: Criminal Intent (NYPost).

Beyond his work in film and television, Lo Bianco's theatrical achievements were significant. He won a New York Emmy Award for his performance in the 1984 stage production of Hizzoner! and appeared in various off-Broadway shows, including The Little Flower (NYPost). His talent was further recognized with a Tony Award nomination in 1983 for his role in the Broadway revival of Arthur Miller's A View from the Bridge and an Obie Award in 1975 for his role in Yanks-3, Detroit-0, Top of the 7th.

Before becoming an actor, Lo Bianco was a former Golden Gloves boxer, showcasing his diverse range of talents (Fox). Over the course of his life, he was married three times and had three daughters with his first wife, Dora Landey. His contributions were not limited to acting; he was also deeply involved in numerous charitable organizations such as the USO, Building Homes for Heroes, The Wounded Warrior Project, National Italian American Foundation, and Sons of Italy in America (Fox).

One of Lo Bianco’s notable contributions to charity was producing and narrating a tribute video called Just a Common Soldier. This heartfelt project resonated with many, receiving over 22 million views and winning two Emmys.

Tony Lo Bianco’s legacy extends far beyond his screen performances. His dedication to his craft, his charitable efforts, and his impact on both the film and theater communities ensure he will be remembered fondly by fans and colleagues alike.