[Archive 2005-12-27] Actor Vincent Schiavelli dies in Sicily at age 57

Historical archive — originally published 2005-12-27. This report records what was known on that date. It is not current news; subsequent events may have changed the situation. Wikinews closed in May 2026.

The well-known character actor, Vincent Schiavelli has died at his home in Polizzi Generosa, Sicily. He was 57.

Schiavelli appeared in more than 120 films and television shows including the movie "Ghost" where he played opposite Patrick Swayze. He was selected in 1997 by Vanity Fair as one of the best character actors in the United States.

Vincent Schiavelli could do with a glance what many actors work a lifetime to perfect. Schiavelli had the countenance of one of Dali's melting clocks, the hooded eyes of a mobster and the smile of someone who might be light years off his meds.

It was a look that launched his career. By the time Schiavelli died at age 57, he had starred in 150 television shows and movies. He had a name people couldn't remember and a face people couldn't forget.

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