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Entertainment • Actor

Chazz Palminteri

Chazz Palminteri is an American actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer and director.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Chazz Palminteri is an American actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer and director. He is best known for creating and starring in the play and film "A Bronx Tale" and for his supporting role in "Bullets Over Broadway," which earned him an Academy Award nomination. Palminteri has also appeared in films such as "The Usual Suspects" and in television roles including "Modern Family."

Early life

Palminteri was born Calogero Lorenzo Palminteri on May 15, 1952, in New York City, New York, U.S., and was raised in the Bronx. His early background is commonly linked to the autobiographical material that informed "A Bronx Tale."

Career

His breakout work was "A Bronx Tale," first developed as a one-man stage play and later adapted into a 1993 film he wrote and starred in. He built a career in film, television, theater, and behind-the-camera roles as a writer and director.

Film and television work

Palminteri became widely known for roles in "Bullets Over Broadway" and "The Usual Suspects," and later appeared in projects such as "Analyze This" and "Modern Family." His screen work spans crime drama, comedy, and television guest and recurring roles.

Recognition

His performance in "Bullets Over Broadway" brought an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. He has also been recognized for his writing and stage work associated with "A Bronx Tale."

Key facts

  • Creator and star of the play and film A Bronx Tale, which is based on his own childhood experiences.
  • Nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Bullets Over Broadway (1994).
  • Appeared in notable films such as The Usual Suspects and Analyze This.
  • Recurred as Shorty on the television series Modern Family.
  • Also works as a screenwriter, director, and producer.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Chazz Palminteri?
He is an American actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer and director best known for "A Bronx Tale" and "Bullets Over Broadway."
What is Chazz Palminteri's birth name?
His birth name is Calogero Lorenzo Palminteri.
What is Chazz Palminteri best known for?
He is best known for creating "A Bronx Tale" and for his Oscar-nominated role in "Bullets Over Broadway."
Was Chazz Palminteri nominated for an Academy Award?
Yes. He was nominated for Best Supporting Actor for "Bullets Over Broadway" in 1994.
What television role is Chazz Palminteri known for?
He had a recurring role as Shorty on "Modern Family."

References

  1. Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chazz_Palminteri
    Supports: Birth name, birth date, occupations, major credits, and Academy Award nomination
  2. National Italian American Foundationhttps://www.niaf.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Chazz-Palminteri-Bio.pdf
    Supports: Biographical background, career credits, directing work, and personal details
  3. BroadwayWorldhttps://www.broadwayworld.com/people/Chazz-Palminteri/
    Supports: Stage work, A Bronx Tale history, and career credits
  4. TCMhttps://www.tcm.com/tcmdb/person/146980%7C0/Chazz-Palminteri
    Supports: A Bronx Tale and career overview
  5. Encyclopedia.comhttps://www.encyclopedia.com/education/news-wires-white-papers-and-books/palminteri-chazz-1952
    Supports: Birth name, birth date, family details, education, and career summary