The Hollywood Godfather Podcast

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 . Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 . Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircl...

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 . Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands P...

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 . Advertising Inquiries: http...

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 . Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcir...

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 . Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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. S...

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 th...

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 Ma...

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,...

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 restaura...

A listener’s question sparked a wave of nostalgia and inspired this episode. Today we discuss the incredibly talented Connie Francis. She gave us timeless hits like, WHERE THE BOYS ARE & WHO’S SORRY NOW. Tune in as we explore memories behind the legend and celebrate the unforgettable Connie Francis. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19....

On this episode, Gianni dives into listeners' questions taking us back to the golden area of the Tropicana, sharing vivid memories of the time he spent in the iconic venue. He recalls unforgettable moments watching legendary superstars like Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr. Wayne Newton and Elvis Presly light up the stage.. He also answers questions revealing his second favorite film role and ref...

REGINE - one name was all it took for the Queen of the Night to become an icon. Regine Zylberberg the self-proclaimed inventor of the discotheque, took the world by storm, from Paris and Monte Carlo to New York City. As a young girl she was hiding from the Nazis and selling copper in the streets to get by but then things began looking up as she started working at Whiskey a Gogo. She went on to cre...

In this episode we dive into the remarkable life of Bobby Darin, a musical sensation whose talent and ambition left an indelible mark on the entertainment world. Know for hits like Mack the Knife and Beyond the Sea, Bobby Darin lived with a unique urgency. He was aware of his limited time and channeled every ounce of energy into making a lasting impact. We explore his passionate relationship with...

Join Us as We Follow Gianni Russo Celebrating Italian Heritage Month: Honored with The Caruso Tribute Award, Marching in the WABC Columbus Day Parade and Appearing at The Hollywood Show in Burbank CA!Restaurant: https://cadelsole.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info . Advertising Inquiries: https://redci...

In this podcast episode, Gianni Russo opens up about his cherished friendship with Hollywood icon and Princess of Monaco, Grace Kelly. Russo shares intimate stories, beginning with how they first met. Gianni tells about her royal marriage to Prince Rainier, and attending the Red Cross Ball with Frank Sinatra and the tragic circumstances surrounding her death. He also explains why, despite the conn...

In this captivating podcast interview, Sal Manna, co-author of The Tailor the book that spawned the docuseries The Tailor of Sin City , explores the extraordinary life of AJ Pratt, a tailor whose client list spanned celebrities, mobsters, and political elites. Known for dressing icons like Elvis Presley, Tom Jones, and Wayne Newton, AJ's influence went far beyond the world of fashion. Sal shar...

In this episode, Gianni tells about his first experience obtaining an attorney. We explore the role of attorney-client privileges, and how lawyers such as Sidney Korshak navigated delicate conversations in sensitive cases. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info . Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/bra...

In this mailbag episode, we dive into listener questions about everything from a marriage to showbiz legends. Mentions of Juliet Prowse, Engelbert Humperdinck, Tom Jones, Jerry Lewis, Jam and as always the ever-enigmatic Marilyn Monroe. Gianni shares exciting updates on the intriguing new books coming your way. Tune in for a lively and eclectic conversation! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com...

Gianni reflects on his first encounter with Joe Kennedy, the patriarch of America's most iconic political dynasty. He shares memories of the trajectory of the Kennedy family. He recounts how he witnessed the rise and fall of the family destined for greatness, yet marked by unimaginal lose and self-destruction. It's his own unique perspective on the Kennedy legacy and the shadow of tragedy...

In this episode, we take a moment to reflect on one of the most significant events in modern history – September 11, 2001. Join us as we share personal stories of where we were and what we experienced on that fateful day. From shock and disbelief to moments of unity and strength, we discuss how 9/11 shaped our lives and the world around us. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and Calif...

In this episode, we dive deep into Gianni's personal story of faith and tradition as he reflects on his Catholic upbringing. Gianni opens up about a pivotal time in his faith journey, recounting his childhood struggle with polio. He reflects on the profound questions that arose during that time, wondering why God would allow such suffering to befall him as a young boy. As he shares his story,...

The gift that just keeps giving. Gianni tells of the significance of the gift and unexpected journey set in motion with a nod to the profound impact that a simple object like a transistor radio can have on one's destiny. Gianni tells about the inspirational connection between Frank Sinatra's music and Gianni's newfound belief in his own potential sparked by the gift. See Privacy Policy...

In this episode of The Hollywood Godfather Podcast , Gianni Russo and Jeanie delve into the fascinating world of classic Hollywood, focusing on the legendary comedian Don Rickles. They explore the lesser-known side of Don Rickles, including his long-standing friendship with Gianni Russo. Russo shares hilarious stories from his time working with Rickles as his opening act, offering an insider's...