John Capodice, prolific character actor seen in 'Seinfeld', 'Ace Ventura' and US Army veteran, dies at 83

The legacy of John Capodice, who died in New Jersey, includes over 100 film and TV appearances
UPDATED JAN 3, 2025
John Capodice cemented his reputation as a reliable character actor with memorable appearances in both comedy and drama (Getty Images)
John Capodice cemented his reputation as a reliable character actor with memorable appearances in both comedy and drama (Getty Images)

NORTHVALE, NEW JERSEY: John Capodice, a versatile actor with an impressive career spanning decades, died on December 30 at the age of 83.

According to an obituary from Pizzi Funeral Home in New Jersey, Capodice is survived by his wife Jane, daughters Tessa De Pierro and Cassandra Hansen, and four grandchildren.

How did John Capodice die?


PARSIPPANY, NJ - APRIL 29: John Capodice attends Chiller Theatre Expo Spring 2022 on April 29, 2022 in Parsippany, New Jersey. (Photo by Bobby Bank/Getty Images)
John Capodice attends Chiller Theatre Expo Spring 2022 on April 29, 2022 in Parsippany, New Jersey (Getty Images)

The cause of John Capodice's death was not disclosed.

Born in Chicago in 1941, Capodice served in the US Army from 1964 to 1966, fighting in the Korean War.

Following his military service, he pursued acting, becoming a familiar face in both television and film, according to People.

Inside John Capodice's journey from soap operas to sitcoms

John Capodice gained recognition in the 1970s for his role as Carmine Cerullo in 'General Hospital'.

His versatility shone through in guest roles on classic series including 'Seinfeld', 'Boy Meets World', 'Will & Grace', 'Mad About You', 'Law & Order', 'Murder', 'She Wrote', 'The West Wing', and 'Monk'.


John Capodice during The Feast of San Gennaro Presented by Precious Cheese - Day 1 at Hollywood Ivar Lot in Hollywood, California, United States. (Photo by Albert L. Ortega/WireImage)
John Capodice during The Feast of San Gennaro Presented by Precious Cheese - Day 1 at Hollywood Ivar Lot in Hollywood, California, United States (Albert L Ortega/WireImage)

His IMDb credits trace his first on-screen appearance to the 1978 film 'Rush It' and recurring roles in 'Ryan’s Hope'.

Over the years, Capodice cemented his reputation as a reliable character actor with memorable appearances in both comedy and drama.

Inside John Capodice's film career and iconic moments

John Capodice also made his mark in Hollywood with roles in blockbusters such as 'Independence Day', 'Enemy of the State', and 'The Doors'.

In the cult classic 'Ace Ventura: Pet Detective', he played a dismissive police officer opposite Jim Carrey’s eccentric title character.


WAYNE, NJ - OCTOBER 16: Actor John Capodice attends New Jersey CollectorFest Fall 2021 at Wayne Police Athletic League on October 16, 2021 in Wayne, New Jersey. (Photo by Bobby Bank/Getty Images)
Actor John Capodice attends New Jersey CollectorFest Fall 2021 at Wayne Police Athletic League on October 16, 2021, in Wayne, New Jersey (Getty Images)

Additional credits include 'Wall Street', 'Honeymoon in Vegas', 'Gremlins 2: The New Batch', and 'Six Feet Under'.

Described in his obituary as a “devoted husband, father, and grandfather", Capodice is remembered for his warmth and charisma both on and off-screen.

A celebration of Capodice’s life will take place on Sunday, January 12, at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart RC Church in Sparkill, New York, as noted by the funeral home.

Netizens pay tribute to John Capodice

John Capodice was fondly celebrated by fans and colleagues who admired his talent and dedication.

One fan on X wrote, "Rest in Peace, John Capodice. @GeneralHospital fans will remember him as Lois' dad, Carmine Cerullo, but I'll remember the years when he lived near me, doted on his grandchildren, and loved to eat out at local restaurants."



 

"He was 83. He’s just a great guy! RIP," a fan commented, and another remarked, "This is such a huge loss to the world of entertainment," and later added, "Whether it was his memorable turn as a tough but lovable character in Ace Ventura or his long-running presence at General Hospital, Capodice's work always had authenticity and heart."



 



 

"RIP great supporting actor," a fan penned, while someone tweeted, "Rip my friend. You will be missed," and another wrote, "Prayers up for pops Cerullo#Gh"



 



 



 

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.

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