Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Ray Liotta

Raymond Allen Liotta (December 18, 1954 – May 26, 2022) was an American actor renowned for his intense portrayals of complex characters, particularly in crime dramas and character-driven films, with breakthrough roles including Henry Hill in Goodfellas (1990) and Shoeless Joe Jackson in Field of Dreams (1989). Born in Newark, New Jersey, Liotta was adopted at six months old by Alfred Liotta, an auto parts store owner, and Mary Liotta, a township clerk, and raised alongside his sister Linda in Union, New Jersey. He graduated from Union High School in 1973, where he excelled in basketball and soccer, before earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in acting from the University of Miami in 1978. Liotta began his professional career with a three-year stint on the soap opera Another World (1978–1981), followed by guest appearances on television shows like Miami Vice and Cassie & Co. before transitioning to film with smaller roles in the early 1980s. His film breakthrough came with the role of a charming ex-convict in Something Wild (1986), earning him a Golden Globe nomination and paving the way for collaborations with directors like Martin Scorsese and Ron Shelton. Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Liotta delivered memorable performances in a diverse range of projects, including Unlawful Entry (1992), Cop Land (1997), Blow (2001), and the HBO miniseries The Rat Pack (1998), for which he received a Screen Actors Guild nomination. He won a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series for his role on ER in 2005 and later starred in series like Shades of Blue (2016–2018). In his personal life, Liotta married Michelle Grace in 1997, with whom he had a daughter, Karsen, born in 1998; the couple divorced in 2004. At the time of his death, he was engaged to Jacy Nittolo. Liotta passed away in his sleep in a hotel room in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, while filming Dangerous Waters, at the age of 67. His induction into the New Jersey Hall of Fame in 2016, along with posthumous honors including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2023 and an Emmy nomination for Black Bird (2022), highlighted his enduring impact on performing arts.

Early years

Childhood and family

Ray Liotta was born Raymond Allen Liotta on December 18, 1954, in Newark, New Jersey. At six months old, he was adopted by Mary Liotta, a township clerk of Scottish descent, and Alfred Liotta, an auto parts store owner of Italian descent. Liotta was raised alongside his adopted sister Linda in a middle-class household in Union, New Jersey, where his adoptive parents provided a stable environment. His father's involvement in local Democratic politics and the family's Roman Catholic background, though not deeply religious, contributed to a community-oriented upbringing. During his time at Union High School, Liotta initially focused on athletics, playing basketball, but after being kicked off the team, he joined a drama class, which ignited his interest in acting. He graduated from the school in 1973 and was later inducted into its Hall of Fame in recognition of his achievements.

Education

Liotta attended the University of Miami from 1974 to 1978, where he earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in acting. Initially unsure of his major, he selected theater arts during registration to avoid courses in math or history, following his father's advice to sample various subjects. During his time in the university's theater program, Liotta became deeply involved through performances that honed his skills. Encouraged by classmates, he auditioned for the musical Cabaret by performing "Magic to Do" from Pippin, securing roles in several musicals during his freshman year. Over the next four years, he took on prominent parts, including Riff in West Side Story, which helped build his stage presence and confidence. A key influence was his drama coach, Robert "Buckets" Lowery, a Stanislavski-method instructor and former basketball player, who challenged Liotta intellectually and prevented him from dropping out after his first year. Upon graduating in 1978, Liotta decided to pursue acting professionally and relocated to New York City that same year. To support himself, he took odd jobs, such as bartending at the Shubert Organization, while attending numerous auditions for off-Broadway productions and other opportunities. These early struggles tested his resolve but paved the way for his entry into the professional acting world.

Acting career

Early career

Liotta began his professional acting career shortly after graduating from the University of Miami's theater program, initially focusing on off-Broadway theater productions in New York City during the late 1970s. These early stage experiences provided foundational training, though details of specific roles remain limited in public records. He appeared in off-Broadway productions such as "The Proposition" and "Character Lines." His television debut came in 1978 when he was cast as Joey Perrini, a troubled young man in a working-class family, on the NBC soap opera Another World, where he appeared regularly until 1981. This role marked Liotta's first significant on-screen exposure, allowing him to hone his craft in a demanding daily format while earning steady work in the competitive New York acting scene. Seeking opportunities in film, Liotta relocated to Los Angeles following his departure from Another World in 1981. The move proved challenging, as he supported himself with odd jobs, including bartending at Broadway theaters during intermissions for shows like A Chorus Line, while auditioning extensively amid fears of being typecast from his soap opera background. During this period, he landed guest spots on short-lived series, including a recurring role as the bartender Sacha on the NBC drama Casablanca in 1983. Liotta's film debut arrived the same year with a minor but memorable antagonistic role as a high school bully in the drama The Lonely Lady, opposite Pia Zadora. Though the film was critically panned, the part represented a crucial step into cinema, helping Liotta build credits despite the industry's early hurdles for newcomers transitioning from television.

Breakthrough and rise

Liotta's breakthrough came with his role as the volatile ex-convict Ray Sinclair in the 1986 comedy-thriller Something Wild, directed by Jonathan Demme, where he portrayed a menacing figure whose intense, unpredictable energy shifted the film's tone from whimsical to darkly suspenseful. His performance earned him a Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actor – Motion Picture, marking his first major industry recognition and highlighting his ability to command the screen with raw charisma. This role, coming after years of television work, propelled Liotta into leading film opportunities by showcasing his capacity for both menace and magnetic appeal. Building momentum in the late 1980s, Liotta delivered a grounded portrayal of Eugene Laciano, an ambitious medical student navigating the emotional complexities of caring for his mentally challenged twin brother, in the 1988 drama Dominick and Eugene. Critics praised his nuanced depiction of familial tension and quiet intensity, which added depth to the film's exploration of brotherhood and sacrifice, further establishing him as a versatile actor capable of dramatic subtlety. The performance, alongside Tom Hulce's Oscar-nominated turn, contributed to the film's positive reception as a sensitive character study. In 1989, Liotta expanded his range with the role of Shoeless Joe Jackson in Field of Dreams, a sports fantasy directed by Phil Alden Robinson, where he embodied the disgraced baseball legend as a spectral figure of quiet dignity and redemption. Despite lacking baseball experience and initially doubting the script's fantastical elements, Liotta's understated presence brought emotional weight to the character's scenes, allowing him to convey vulnerability and grace in contrast to his earlier intense roles. The film received widespread acclaim, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture, and Liotta's contribution underscored his growing dramatic versatility in ensemble casts. Liotta's portrayal of real-life mobster Henry Hill in Martin Scorsese's 1990 crime epic Goodfellas solidified his stardom, serving as the narrative voice and emotional core of the film based on Nicholas Pileggi's nonfiction book Wiseguy. To prepare, Liotta immersed himself in the era's mob culture through research and consultations, though Scorsese instructed him not to meet the actual Hill beforehand to preserve an authentic on-screen dynamic with co-stars Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci. His kinetic, charismatic performance captured Hill's rise and fall with unflinching realism, revitalizing the gangster genre by blending humor, violence, and moral ambiguity in a way that influenced subsequent mob narratives. Goodfellas earned six Oscar nominations, including Best Picture, and is widely regarded as a cinematic landmark, cementing Liotta's reputation as a transformative leading man.

Mid-career versatility

Following the breakthrough success of his role as Henry Hill in Goodfellas (1990), Ray Liotta showcased his range in the 1990s and early 2000s by embracing antagonistic and dramatic parts across action, thriller, and ensemble genres, moving beyond mobster archetypes. In the action-thriller Unlawful Entry (1992), Liotta played Pete Davis, a psychopathic police officer who ingratiates himself into a couple's life before revealing his obsessive and violent nature as the primary antagonist. His performance effectively balanced charm and menace, making the character's descent into stalking all the more unsettling. Liotta's dramatic depth shone in Cop Land (1997), where he portrayed Jack Rucker, a corrupt New Jersey cop entangled in a web of police misconduct and cover-ups, adding intensity to the film's ensemble exploration of moral ambiguity. Critics noted his commanding presence alongside co-stars Sylvester Stallone and Harvey Keitel, highlighting how he infused the role with restrained volatility. He further diversified into horror-thriller territory as Paul Krendler in Hannibal (2001), playing a smug U.S. Justice Department official whose arrogance leads to a gruesome fate at the hands of Hannibal Lecter, expanding Liotta's repertoire into psychological terror. In ensemble dramas, Liotta supported lead performances while carving out memorable supporting roles. He appeared as Fred Jung, the working-class father of drug smuggler George Jung, in Blow (2001), collaborating with Johnny Depp and Penelope Cruz in this biopic of cocaine trafficking, where his portrayal underscored themes of familial disappointment and the American Dream's corruption. Similarly, in John Q (2002), Liotta played Chief Gus Monroe, the police chief, who leads the law enforcement response and clashes with John Q Archibald (Denzel Washington) during the hostage crisis at the hospital. This contributed to the film's advocacy-driven narrative on healthcare inequities. Liotta ventured into voice acting with the video game Grand Theft Auto: Vice City (2002), lending his distinctive intensity to protagonist Tommy Vercetti, a released convict building a criminal empire in a 1980s-inspired Miami; his performance elevated the game's narrative, making the character's ambition and ruthlessness central to its satirical storytelling. This role marked a significant step into interactive media, influencing how actors approached video game narratives for emotional depth.

Later career and television

In the later stages of his career, Ray Liotta expanded his presence on television, building on his established versatility in dramatic roles to take on compelling guest appearances and series leads. His notable television work began to gain renewed attention with a powerful guest role on the medical drama ER in 2004, where he portrayed Charlie Metcalf, a terminally ill ex-convict seeking reconciliation with his son in the episode "Time of Death." For this performance, Liotta earned the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series in 2005, marking a significant accolade that highlighted his ability to deliver emotionally raw portrayals in limited screen time. Liotta's television commitments intensified in the 2010s, showcasing his command of complex authority figures. He starred as Lieutenant Matt Wozniak, a morally ambiguous NYPD detective, in the NBC crime drama Shades of Blue from 2016 to 2018, co-leading the series alongside Jennifer Lopez as Harlee Santos, a corrupt cop turned FBI informant. The show explored themes of loyalty and betrayal within a precinct, with Liotta's portrayal of Wozniak earning praise for its intensity and nuance, contributing to the series' three-season run despite mixed critical reception. One of his final television projects, the 2022 Apple TV+ miniseries Black Bird, featured Liotta as Big Jim Keene, the father of real-life convict Jimmy Keene (played by Taron Egerton), in a true-crime story about an inmate infiltrating a maximum-security prison to elicit a confession from a suspected serial killer. Adapted from James Keene's memoir In with the Devil, the limited series received acclaim for its tense storytelling, and Liotta's performance garnered a posthumous nomination for the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie in 2023. Parallel to his television resurgence, Liotta continued to appear in feature films during the 2010s, often in supporting roles that leveraged his signature intensity. In the 2012 crime drama The Place Beyond the Pines, directed by Derek Cianfrance, he played Detective Peter Deluca, a corrupt cop entangled in a multi-generational story of crime and consequence starring Ryan Gosling and Bradley Cooper. Liotta's character added a layer of menace to the film's exploration of legacy and moral decay, with the ensemble piece earning recognition for its ambitious narrative structure. He followed this with a role as the ruthless businessman Joey Canelli in the 2014 neo-noir anthology Sin City: A Dame to Kill For, a sequel to the 2005 graphic novel adaptation, where his brief but memorable appearance contributed to the film's stylized violence and star-studded cast including Josh Brolin and Eva Green. Following Liotta's death in May 2022, several of his projects were released posthumously, underscoring his prolific output in his final years. In the 2023 horror-comedy Cocaine Bear, directed by Elizabeth Banks, Liotta portrayed Syd, a vicious drug kingpin whose cocaine shipment sparks the film's chaotic events inspired by a real 1985 incident; producers toned down the graphic nature of his character's death scene out of respect after his passing. The film achieved commercial success with over $90 million in global box office earnings and mixed reviews that praised its dark humor. Fool's Paradise (2023), a satirical comedy written and directed by Charlie Day, featured Liotta as a slick Hollywood producer manipulating the rise of a mute everyman (Day) to stardom; the ensemble cast included Adrien Brody and Kate Beckinsale, but the film received poor critical reception, holding a 20% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes for its uneven execution. Liotta's involvement in Dangerous Waters (2023), a thriller directed by John Barr, occurred during filming in the Dominican Republic, where he died unexpectedly; he played a key supporting role as the manipulative husband of a woman (Odeya Rush) ensnared in a sailing trip gone wrong with her new partner (Eric Dane). The low-budget production wrapped principal photography shortly before his death, and his "powerful" final scene—a tense confrontation—drew specific praise from the director for its emotional depth, though the film as a whole garnered mixed reviews with an IMDb score of 5.3/10 for its formulaic thriller tropes. His last released film, the 2024 heist thriller 1992, directed by Ariel Vromen and set against the backdrop of the Los Angeles riots, cast Liotta as a hardened criminal alongside Tyrese Gibson and Scott Eastwood in a story of robbery and family reconciliation. Produced with input from Snoop Dogg as an executive producer, the film received divided responses—critics noted its rote plotting (33% on Rotten Tomatoes) but audiences appreciated the action and Liotta's commanding presence, reflected in a 76% audience score.

Personal life

Relationships and family

Liotta married actress and producer Michelle Grace in February 1997 after meeting her at a baseball game, where Grace's then-husband, Mark Grace, was playing for the Chicago Cubs. The couple's relationship developed after her divorce from Mark Grace, and they wed in Las Vegas officiated by an Elvis Presley impersonator. Their marriage lasted until 2004, when they divorced amicably without public details on the reasons, though they maintained a cooperative co-parenting arrangement thereafter. Liotta and Grace welcomed their only child, daughter Karsen Liotta, on December 21, 1998. Fatherhood profoundly shaped Liotta, providing him with a deeper sense of purpose beyond his career; in interviews, he described making a deliberate effort to stay connected to Karsen's daily life, such as discussing her school experiences and activities to understand her world better. This role influenced his personal priorities, emphasizing family involvement amid his professional demands. In later years, Liotta found love again with Jacy Nittolo, a business owner and mother of two; the pair were introduced in 2019 through Karsen, who met Nittolo's son at a party and encouraged the connection. They became engaged on December 25, 2020, with Liotta announcing the news on Instagram, describing Nittolo as the "love of my life." Their relationship, marked by blended family harmony, continued until Liotta's death in May 2022. Throughout his fame, Liotta actively shielded his family from public scrutiny, rarely discussing personal matters in interviews and limiting media exposure for Karsen and his partners to preserve their privacy. This discretion allowed him to balance his high-profile career with a protected home life.

Public image and interests

Ray Liotta cultivated a public image that contrasted sharply with the intense, often menacing characters he portrayed on screen, frequently describing himself in interviews as far removed from the tough-guy personas that defined much of his career. In a 1997 profile, he insisted he was a "softy" who had only been in one fight in his life, emphasizing his aversion to real violence and preference for a low-key, approachable demeanor despite assumptions fueled by roles in films like Goodfellas. His daughter later echoed this sentiment posthumously, portraying him as "like a big teddy bear" who prioritized family and kindness off-camera. Liotta's personal interests extended beyond acting, particularly into sports and music, where he engaged as both a participant and enthusiast. A self-described sports fan, he developed a notable affinity for baseball, influenced by his role as Shoeless Joe Jackson in Field of Dreams (1989), which he revisited fondly in later interviews and expressed interest in MLB's annual games at the film's Iowa site. In music, Liotta made occasional forays into video productions, notably starring as a washed-up rock star in Ed Sheeran's 2015 "Bloodstream" clip, showcasing his willingness to blend his acting talents with contemporary music scenes. His philanthropic efforts were understated, focusing on causes like film preservation through support for the Film Foundation and cancer research via Stand Up to Cancer, reflecting a commitment to cultural and health initiatives without seeking publicity. Liotta also maintained low-key ties to his New Jersey roots, participating in local community events, culminating in his 2016 induction into the New Jersey Hall of Fame, where he was honored alongside other state luminaries at the Asbury Park Convention Center.

Death and legacy

Death

Ray Liotta died on May 26, 2022, at the age of 67 while filming the movie Dangerous Waters in the Dominican Republic. He passed away in his sleep at a resort in Santo Domingo. An autopsy conducted by Dominican authorities, with results released in May 2023, determined that Liotta's cause of death was acute heart failure, respiratory failure, and pulmonary edema, attributed to underlying atherosclerotic disease. Liotta was discovered deceased by his fiancée, Jacy Nittolo, who was with him at the time; authorities reported no suspicion of foul play. Nittolo issued a public statement expressing profound grief, describing Liotta as her "best friend and soulmate" and noting that the previous six years had been the best of her life, emphasizing his generosity and kind heart. His publicist confirmed the death to media outlets, stating that Liotta had passed in his sleep and requesting privacy for the family during this difficult time. Following the death, Liotta's body was held at the Funeraria Blandino in Santo Domingo before being transported back to Los Angeles via private jet at the family's request, with funeral arrangements kept private to honor his memory. His fiancée Jacy Nittolo and daughter Karsen Liotta shared tributes on what would have been his 68th birthday, affirming that his legacy would endure in their hearts.

Legacy and honors

Ray Liotta's enduring legacy in film and television is marked by his posthumous induction into the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where he received the 2,749th star on February 24, 2023, in the category of motion pictures. The ceremony, held nine months after his death, was attended by industry figures including Elizabeth Banks and Taron Egerton, with Liotta's daughter, Karsen Liotta, accepting the honor on his behalf, highlighting his lasting impact as a versatile performer. Following his passing, Liotta received widespread tributes from peers who praised his intensity and range. Martin Scorsese, who directed him in Goodfellas, described Liotta as "uniquely gifted, so adventurous, so courageous as an actor," expressing shock at his sudden death and noting his irreplaceable presence in the industry. Robert De Niro, Liotta's co-star in the film, echoed this sentiment, stating he was "very saddened" by the loss and that Liotta was "way too young to have left us." These reflections underscored Liotta's ability to bring authenticity to complex characters across genres, as media outlets revisited his career spanning over 120 acting credits in film and television. Liotta's influence on portrayals of complex anti-heroes, particularly in mob and crime narratives, remains profound, with his work establishing a benchmark for intensity and realism that inspired subsequent actors in the genre. His role as Henry Hill in Goodfellas (1990) has undergone critical reevaluation for its raw depiction of moral ambiguity and vulnerability within the criminal underworld, often cited for elevating the film's authenticity and emotional depth. Scorsese himself later recalled Liotta's instinctive handling of tense situations during casting as evidence of his natural fit for such demanding roles, cementing his status as a pivotal figure in crime cinema.

Filmography

Films

Ray Liotta appeared in numerous feature films throughout his career, spanning from his debut in 1983 to several posthumous releases after his death in 2022. The following table lists his film roles chronologically by release year, including the character name and director for each.
YearTitleRoleDirectorNotes
1983The Lonely LadyJoePeter Sasdy
1986Something WildRay SinclairJonathan Demme
1988Dominick and EugeneRoccoRobert M. Young
1989Field of DreamsShoeless Joe JacksonPhil Alden Robinson
1990GoodfellasHenry HillMartin Scorsese
1992Article 99Dr. Richard SturgessHoward Deutch
1992Unlawful EntryPete DavisJonathan Kaplan
1993No EscapeCaseyMartin Campbell
1994Corrina, CorrinaManny SingerJessie Nelson
1995Operation Dumbo DropCapt. Sam CahillSimon Wincer
1996UnforgettableDavid KraneJohn Dahl
1997TurbulenceRyan WeaverRobert Townsend
1997Cop LandGary FiggisJames Mangold
1998PhoenixJack MarcarioDanny Cannon
1999Magnets and ScissorsDet. Joe BoffanoAndrew J. Kuehn
2000Reindeer GamesJack BangsJohn Frankenheimer
2000A Rumor of AngelsUncle CharliePeter O'Fallon
2001HannibalPaul KrendlerRidley Scott
2001BlowFred JungTed Demme
2001HeartbreakersDean CumannoDavid Mirkin
2002John Q.Frank GrimesNick Cassavetes
2002NarcLt. Henry OakJoe Carnahan
2003IdentityRhodesJames Mangold
2004ControlLee Ray OliverTim Hunter
2004The Last ShotJoe DevineJeff Nathanson
2005RevolverDorothy MachaGuy Ritchie
2006Comeback SeasonWalter PearceBruce McCulloch
2006Local ColorJohn Talia Sr.George Gallo
2006Smokin' AcesDonald CarruthersJoe Carnahan
2007Wild HogsJackWalt Becker
2007Bee MovieHimself (voice)Simon J. Smith, Steve HicknerVoice role
2007In the Name of the King: A Dungeon Siege TaleLord GallianUwe Boll
2008Hero WantedDetective Hank RobinsonBrian Goodman
2008Powder BlueJack DohenyTimothy Linh Bùi
2009Observe and ReportDetective HarrisonJorma Taccone
2009Chasing 3000TommyJohn Dahl
2010Charlie St. CloudFlorio FerrenteBurr Steers
2011The Son of No OneDetective StanfordDito Montiel
2011All Things Fall ApartAgent ParkerMario Van Peebles
2012Killing Them SoftlyJohnny AmatoAndrew Dominik
2012The Place Beyond the PinesDelucaDerek Cianfrance
2013The IcemanRoy DeMeoAriel Vromen
2013The Devil's in the DetailsBruceWaymon Boone
2013PawnThe ManDavid M. Rosenthal
2013SuddenlyTodd ShawUwe Boll
2014Better Living Through ChemistryJack St. CloudGeoff McLean
2014Muppets Most WantedBig PapaJames Bobin
2014Sin City: A Dame to Kill ForJoey CanelliRobert Rodriguez, Frank Miller
2014The IdenticalReece WadeDustin Marcellino
2014StretchHimselfBen LewinCameo
2015BlackwayBlackwayDaniel Alfredson
2015Campus CodeBartenderCathy Scorsese, Kenneth M. Waddell
2016Sticky NotesJackAmy Heller
2016Flock of DudesUncle ReedBob Castrone
2019Marriage StoryJayNoah Baumbach
2019The Poison RoseDoc GravesFrancesco Cinquemani
2020The Burnt Orange HeresyJoseph ScorteseGiuseppe Capotondi
2021No Sudden MoveFrank CapelliSteven Soderbergh
2021The Many Saints of Newark"Hollywood Dick" MoltisantiAlan Taylor
2022Every Last SecretClayTom PatonPosthumous
2023Cocaine BearSydElizabeth BanksPosthumous
2023Fool's ParadiseTony RussoCharlie DayPosthumous
2023Dangerous WatersCoast Guard Executive OfficerJohn BarrPosthumous
20241992Vincent MancusoAriel VromenPosthumous
This list includes only feature-length theatrical or direct-to-video/streaming films where Liotta had credited acting roles; voice roles in animated features are included if feature-length.

Television

Liotta began his acting career in television before transitioning to film, but returned to the medium later in his career for a variety of series regular, miniseries, and guest roles. His breakthrough TV role was as Joey Perrini, a young family member entangled in the soap opera's dramatic storylines of romance and conflict in the fictional town of Bay City, appearing in 36 episodes of Another World from 1978 to 1981. In the 1981 TV movie Crazy Times, Liotta portrayed Johnny "Wizard" Lazarra, one of three teenage friends navigating urban adventures and challenges in New York City. He made a guest appearance as Murray, a patient with a severe injury, in the 1983 episode "Rain" of the medical drama St. Elsewhere. Liotta starred as Officer Ed Santini, a principled NYPD detective from a police family caught between law enforcement and organized crime, in all 10 episodes of the short-lived 1985 series Our Family Honor. In 1995, he voiced Bob, a quirky radio caller sharing holiday woes, in the Frasier episode "Frasier Grinch." Liotta delivered a critically acclaimed portrayal of singer Frank Sinatra in the 1998 HBO TV movie The Rat Pack, earning a Screen Actors Guild Award nomination for his depiction of the charismatic entertainer and mob associate. He appeared as a fictionalized version of himself, an actor infatuated with the character Maya Gallo and obsessed with Christmas, in two episodes of the sitcom Just Shoot Me!: "Christmas? Christmas!" (2001) and "Liotta? Liotta!" (2002). In 2004, Liotta guest-starred as Charlie Metcalf, an ailing ex-convict spending his final moments in the ER, in the ER episode "Time of Death," a performance that won him the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series in 2005. Liotta led the 2006 CBS series Smith as Bobby Stevens (also known as Joe Smith), the charismatic head of a team of professional thieves struggling to maintain a double life, though the show was canceled after three episodes. He voiced himself in the 2012 Phineas and Ferb episode "What a Croc!," briefly briefing secret agent Perry the Platypus on a mission. In the 2015 History Channel miniseries Texas Rising, Liotta played Lorca, a key figure in the dramatization of the Texas Rangers' formation after the Battle of the Alamo, appearing across 10 episodes and earning a SAG nomination. Liotta starred as Matt Wozniak, a tough and corrupt NYPD lieutenant leading an anti-crime task force while secretly informing for the FBI, in all 36 episodes of Shades of Blue from 2016 to 2018. In season 3 of the Amazon Prime series Hanna (2021), he portrayed Gordon Evans, the ruthless chairman of the CIA's UTRAX program training young assassins. One of Liotta's final roles was as James "Big Jim" Keene, a retired police officer and devoted father grappling with health issues while supporting his incarcerated son, in the 2022 Apple TV+ miniseries Black Bird, earning a posthumous Emmy nomination for the six-episode limited series.

Video games

Ray Liotta made his video game voice acting debut as Tommy Vercetti, the protagonist of Grand Theft Auto: Vice City (2002), a crime-themed action-adventure game developed by Rockstar North and published by Rockstar Games. Vercetti, a former mob enforcer released from prison, arrives in the fictional 1980s Miami-inspired Vice City to reclaim a botched drug deal and build a criminal empire through missions involving heists, races, and territorial control. Liotta recorded his lines in a New York studio session arranged by producer Navid Khonsari, arriving initially reluctant and sore from a basketball game, remarking that his last video game experience was Pong. Despite his skepticism toward the medium, he delivered over 5,000 lines of dialogue in character as the brash, hot-tempered mobster, earning half his standard film rate for the effort. His performance, drawing on his Goodfellas persona, brought authenticity to Vercetti's Scarface-inspired arc and helped the game achieve massive commercial success, selling 1.4 million copies in its first five days—a record for the platform at the time—and over 17.5 million units lifetime across platforms. Liotta's portrayal was widely acclaimed for elevating video game acting, earning him the Best Performance by a Human Male award at the 2003 Spike Video Game Awards and a 2004 Golden Satellite Award for Outstanding Character from an Interactive Media. The original recordings have been retained in all re-releases, including ports to mobile devices in 2012 and the remastered Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition in 2021. Liotta's sole other video game credit came in 2013 with the role of Billy Handsome, a ruthless mobster assassin, in "Mob of the Dead," a zombies survival mode DLC for Call of Duty: Black Ops II developed by Treyarch. In this first-person shooter expansion set on a zombie-overrun Alcatraz Island, Handsome and fellow gangsters attempt a supernatural escape from a purgatory-like loop, with Liotta voicing alongside Chazz Palminteri, Joe Pantoliano, and Michael Madsen to create an ensemble of 1930s-era criminals. The map's narrative depth and Liotta's gravelly delivery contributed to its popularity among Call of Duty fans, though it remained his final gaming role.

Theater

Liotta's initial foray into acting occurred during his studies at the University of Miami, where he performed in musicals and stage productions as a singer and dancer at the Jerry Herman Ring Theatre. Though his professional career shifted toward television and film after graduation, Liotta returned to the stage for his Broadway debut in Stephen Belber's Match, a drama exploring themes of marriage and ambition. He portrayed Mike, a bisexual ballet dancer and academic, opposite Frank Langella as the composer Tobias and Jane Adams as Mike's wife Lisa. The production opened at the Plymouth Theatre on April 8, 2004, and ran for 52 performances until May 23, 2004. Liotta's performance earned him recognition, including a Distinguished Performance Award at the 70th Annual Drama League Awards.

Music videos

Ray Liotta made notable appearances in two music videos during the 2010s, showcasing his versatility beyond film and television by taking on antagonistic and eccentric roles in high-profile pop productions. These forays into music media provided brief but memorable glimpses of his intense screen presence in stylized, narrative-driven visuals. In 2014, Liotta starred as the villainous leader of a gang in David Guetta's "Lovers on the Sun," featuring Sam Martin. The Western-themed video, directed by Marc Klasfeld, depicts Liotta as a ruthless cowboy pursuing a young couple amid desert showdowns and dramatic chases, blending electronic dance music with spaghetti Western tropes. His portrayal added a layer of menacing charisma to the clip, which premiered on August 12, 2014, and contributed to the single's chart success. The following year, Liotta took a lead role in Ed Sheeran's "Bloodstream," a collaboration with Rudimental, directed by Emil Nava. Released on March 23, 2015, the video casts him as a disheveled, washed-up rock star from the fictional band Black Glove, aimlessly roaming a lavish mansion, riding a horse through opulent halls, and engaging in chaotic antics that reflect themes of excess and decline. This performance highlighted Liotta's ability to infuse humor and pathos into a surreal narrative, aligning with his occasional interest in music as expressed in interviews about his eclectic tastes. These appearances underscored Liotta's enduring appeal in multimedia formats, extending his career into contemporary pop culture.

Recognition

Awards

Ray Liotta received several accolades throughout his career, recognizing his standout performances in film and television. His most prominent win was the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series for his role as Charlie Metcalf in the episode "Time of Death" of the medical drama ER, awarded in 2005 for his portrayal of a terminally ill ex-convict seeking reconciliation with his son. This performance also earned him the Prism Award for Performance in a Drama Series Episode in 2005, honoring accurate depictions of mental health and substance abuse issues. Earlier in his career, Liotta was honored with the Boston Society of Film Critics Award for Best Supporting Actor in 1987 (for films released in 1986), shared with Dennis Hopper, for his intense turn as the volatile Ray Sinclair in Something Wild. In 2001, he received the François Truffaut Award at the Giffoni Film Festival, a special recognition for his contributions to cinema presented to international actors. Liotta's later work was acknowledged in 2020 when he was part of the ensemble cast that won the Robert Altman Award at the Film Independent Spirit Awards for Marriage Story, where he played the divorce attorney Jay Marlowe; the award celebrates excellence in casting and ensemble performance in independent film. Liotta was posthumously awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on February 24, 2023.

Nominations

Ray Liotta received several notable nominations throughout his career for his performances in film and television, recognizing his versatility across genres. These accolades came from major industry bodies and critics' groups, highlighting key roles that showcased his intense and charismatic screen presence.

Golden Globe Awards

Liotta was nominated for Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in any Motion Picture at the 44th Golden Globe Awards in 1987 for his portrayal of the volatile ex-convict Ray in Something Wild.

Screen Actors Guild Awards

Liotta earned a nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Television Movie or Miniseries at the 5th Screen Actors Guild Awards in 1999 for his role as Frank Sinatra in the HBO television film The Rat Pack. He received another nomination in the same category at the 22nd Screen Actors Guild Awards in 2016 for his performance as Ranger Robert McNelly in the History Channel miniseries Texas Rising.

Primetime Emmy Awards

Liotta was posthumously nominated for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie at the 75th Primetime Emmy Awards in 2023 for his role as James "Big Jim" Keene in the Apple TV+ limited series Black Bird.

Critics' Groups and Festivals

Liotta received a nomination for Best Supporting Actor from the National Society of Film Critics at their 1987 awards for Something Wild. Additionally, he earned a posthumous nomination for Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series at the 28th Critics' Choice Awards in 2023 for Black Bird.

References

  1. [1]
    Ray Liotta - Early Life, Movies & 'Goodfellas' - Biography
    May 26, 2022 · Raymond Allen Liotta, generally known as Ray Liotta, was born on December 18, 1954, in Newark, New Jersey. He was adopted by Alfred and Mary ...
  2. [2]
    Ray Liotta - New Jersey Hall of Fame
    Oct 2, 2025 · Ray Liotta Actor Born: December 18, 1954, in Newark, New Jersey Died: May 26, 2022, in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic New Jersey Hall of ...
  3. [3]
    Ray Liotta obituary | Movies | The Guardian
    May 27, 2022 · Ray had grown up believing he was of Italian heritage, but on meeting his birth mother in his 40s, discovered his origins were in fact Scottish.
  4. [4]
    How Ray Liotta Made Peace with Being Placed for Adoption
    May 27, 2022 · Born Dec. 18, 1954, in Newark, New Jersey, he was adopted in 1955 at 6 months old by father Alfred, an auto parts store owner, and mom Mary, a ...
  5. [5]
    Ray Liotta - Ethnicity of Celebs | EthniCelebs.com
    Dec 27, 2007 · His adoptive mother was the daughter of Scottish-born parents, David Edgar and Mary Miller, from Glasgow. Ray was raised in Union, New Jersey.
  6. [6]
    FAMED ACTOR & NEWARK BORN RAY LIOTTA: 1954-2022 -
    Jun 3, 2022 · The months-old infant was adopted by Alfred and Mary Liotta from one of up to 11 orphanages Newark had in 1955. Which one was Ray adopted ...
  7. [7]
    Ray Liotta was once told by a casting director that he ... - Facebook
    Jun 19, 2025 · Liotta grew up in a Roman Catholic household in Union, New Jersey, although his family was not very religious. They went to church and he ...Ray Liotta's journey to acting success - FacebookRay Liotta's life and acting career - FacebookMore results from www.facebook.com
  8. [8]
    Ray Liotta a Jersey guy who made good
    May 27, 2022 · Ray was raised in Union, he went to Union grade schools and graduated in 1973 from Union High School. He was athletic and participated in ...
  9. [9]
  10. [10]
    Becoming An Actor Wasn't Something Ray Liotta Set Out To Do
    Jun 3, 2022 · Becoming An Actor Wasn't Something Ray Liotta Set Out To Do · An unexpected drama major · Liotta's mentor · Recommended ...Missing: program | Show results with:program
  11. [11]
    Ray Liotta dug deep to play a preacher in 'The Identical' | Miami Herald
    Sep 5, 2014 · His drama coach, the late Robert “Buckets” Lowery, helped the fun-loving student figure out a direction. “He made acting challenging,” Liotta ...Missing: program mentors
  12. [12]
    Ray Liotta's Career: What He's Been Doing Since 'Goodfellas' - Ranker
    After college, Liotta moved to New York City and became a bartender; however, he secured an agent soon after his arrival and was a working actor within a matter ...
  13. [13]
    How Ray Liotta Has Avoided Being Typecast for 40 Years - Backstage
    Nov 8, 2019 · Netflix and Noah Baumbach's “Marriage Story” actor Ray Liotta interviews with Backstage magazine about audition advice and acting career ...Missing: graduation Broadway struggles
  14. [14]
    Ray Liotta - Actor - TV Insider
    ... soap opera "Another World" (NBC, 1964-1999). Liotta played the role of Joey Perrini on the soap from 1978 to 1981. After a few years on "Another World ...Missing: debut | Show results with:debut
  15. [15]
    Ray Liotta, star of 'Goodfellas' and 'Field of Dreams,' dies at 67
    May 26, 2022 · Ray Liotta, who broke out in Hollywood in the mob classic “Goodfellas” and starred in “Field of Dreams,” has died. He was 67.Missing: Off- theater
  16. [16]
    Before They Were Stars: Ray Liotta on “Casablanca: The TV Series”
    May 30, 2014 · The series is notable for providing Ray Liotta with one of his earliest roles as Sacha the bartender.
  17. [17]
    Ray Liotta's Career in Photos, From 'Goodfellas' to 'Many Saints'
    May 26, 2022 · Getting his start on the soap opera “Another World” in 1978, he made a name for himself in film with a Golden Globe nod for 1986's ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  18. [18]
    Ray Liotta death: 'Goodfellas' and 12 more movies to watch
    May 26, 2022 · ... 1986 film “Something Wild,” which earned him a Golden Globe nomination. Liotta arrives partway through the movie and completely changes its ...
  19. [19]
    Ray Liotta - Golden Globes
    His long career began in the 1980s when he became known for his role as Ray Sinclair in Something Wild (1987), which earned him a Golden Globe nomination. He ...
  20. [20]
    Awards - Something Wild (1986) - IMDb
    1987 Nominee Golden Globe. Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in a Motion Picture. Ray Liotta · National Society of Film Critics Awards, USA.
  21. [21]
    MOVIE REVIEW : 'Dominick and Eugene' Tells a Sensitive Tale of ...
    Mar 17, 1988 · Tom Hulce's emotionally mercurial Dominick and Ray Liotta's intense Eugene are rich, unsentimental, finely detailed characterizations.Missing: reception | Show results with:reception
  22. [22]
    Dominick and Eugene | Rotten Tomatoes
    Rating 77% (22) Two brothers -- Eugene (Ray Liotta), an ambitious medical student, and Nicky (Tom Hulce), a mentally challenged garbage worker -- live together.Missing: reception | Show results with:reception
  23. [23]
    Ray Liotta: 10 Roles That Made Him a Great, Irreplaceable Actor
    May 27, 2022 · Dominick and Eugene (1988) Liotta always had a soft spot for the little movie he made right after wowing audiences in Something Wild; it was ...
  24. [24]
    Shoeless Ray - BallNine
    Jun 1, 2022 · Liotta, who died Wednesday at the age of 67, brought dignity to the role of Shoeless Joe Jackson in the 1989 film classic “Field of Dreams.'' He ...<|separator|>
  25. [25]
    Ray Liotta Didn't Like The Field Of Dreams Script — Why He Did The ...
    Mar 30, 2024 · Despite the role becoming one of his most iconic, Liotta had reservations about the film's premise, feeling unsure about the script's ...
  26. [26]
    Field of Dreams movie review & film summary (1989) - Roger Ebert
    Rating 4/4 · Review by Roger Ebert“Field of Dreams” is a completely sensible film about a young couple who want to run a family farm in Iowa.
  27. [27]
    'We wanted to make it real': How Goodfellas reinvented the gangster ...
    Sep 8, 2025 · In 1990, the director and his stars, Robert De Niro and Ray Liotta, revealed its secrets to the BBC. There was some trepidation when Martin ...
  28. [28]
    Martin Scorsese Recalls What Made Ray Liotta Perfect for 'Goodfellas'
    Feb 24, 2023 · But as Scorsese tells it, playing Henry Hill offered Liotta a chance to elicit support and sympathy from the remainder of the cast and crew. “He ...
  29. [29]
    Goodfellas (1990) | The Definitives - Deep Focus Review
    Rating 4/4 · Review by Brian EggertSep 7, 2024 · Martin Scorsese's Goodfellas, spoken by its protagonist, Henry Hill, played to fiery perfection by Ray Liotta, begins the ensuing marathon of ...<|separator|>
  30. [30]
    Remembering Ray Liotta in 'Goodfellas' - The New York Times
    May 26, 2022 · His performance as Henry Hill includes many touches that weren't in the script. But the producer didn't want to cast him originally.
  31. [31]
    Unlawful Entry movie review & film summary (1992) - Roger Ebert
    Rating 3/4 · Review by Roger EbertFor Liotta, Pete Davis is a dream role – the psychopath who can turn in a plausible imitation of a straight arrow.
  32. [32]
    Unlawful Entry - Variety
    Jun 22, 1992 · Liotta effectively conveys both the nice and the nasty sides of his character , but, as indicated, the true sexual tension between him and ...
  33. [33]
    Ray Liotta, Actor in 'GoodFellas,' Dies at 67 - The Hollywood Reporter
    May 26, 2022 · Ray Liotta, the actor perhaps best known for his turn as hustler turned mob rat Henry Hill in Martin Scorsese's Goodfellas, has died at 67.
  34. [34]
    Cop Land movie review & film summary (1997) - Roger Ebert
    Rating 2/4 · Review by Roger EbertI'm not buying it. But look, I really like Ray Liotta's work in this. You can tell that as far back as he can remember, he always wanted to be a cop, a good cop ...
  35. [35]
    Cop Land - Variety
    Aug 11, 1997 · Although too simplistic in its good-guys/bad-guys approach to morally and emotionally ambiguous material, "Cop Land" emerges as an absorbing ...
  36. [36]
    FILM REVIEW; Whetting That Large Appetite for Second Helpings
    Feb 9, 2001 · A silly though handsomely staged adaptation of the Thomas Harris novel directed by Ridley Scott, is a movie meant for the whole family -- the Manson family.
  37. [37]
    Blow movie review & film summary (2001) | Roger Ebert
    Rating 2.5/4 · Review by Roger EbertThe appearance of Ray Liotta here reminds us of Scorsese's “GoodFellas,” which took a much less important criminal and made him an immeasurably more ...
  38. [38]
    FILM REVIEW; If Arguing Won't Move Insurers, Maybe a Gun Will
    Feb 15, 2002 · ''John Q.'' is a remarkable document, so ham-fisted that it sabotages its own worthwhile arguments. Denzel Washington, who just received a well-deserved Oscar ...
  39. [39]
    Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Review - IGN
    Rating 9.7/10 · Review by Douglass C. PerryOct 28, 2002 · Playing Tommy Vercetti (perfectly voice cast by Ray Liotta from Goodfellas), players take on the role of a gangster who's been around the block, ...Missing: impact | Show results with:impact
  40. [40]
    Let's Talk About Ray Liotta's Most Underrated Performance - SlashFilm
    May 30, 2022 · The introduction of Tommy Vercetti changed the "Grand Theft Auto" games forever. Storytelling became as essential to "GTA" as the trademark ...Missing: narrative | Show results with:narrative
  41. [41]
    Ray Liotta - Awards - IMDb
    2005 Winner Primetime Emmy. Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series. ER. For playing "Charlie Metcalf". For episode "Time of Death". Giffoni Film Festival.
  42. [42]
  43. [43]
    Season 1 – Shades of Blue - Rotten Tomatoes
    Rating 57% (42) Solid performances by Jennifer Lopez and Ray Liotta fail to lift Shades of Blue above the ranks of the pedestrian network procedural.
  44. [44]
    Ray Liotta Receives Posthumous Emmy Nomination for 'Black Bird'
    Jul 12, 2023 · Ray Liotta received a posthumous Emmy nomination for his role as Big Jim Keene in Dennis Lehane's “Black Bird,” the Apple TV+ true crime series.
  45. [45]
    Ray Liotta Earns Posthumous Emmy Nomination - Rolling Stone
    Jul 12, 2023 · Back in 2005, he won Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series for an appearance on ER. Black Bird was one of the last projects Liotta ...
  46. [46]
    Ray Liotta Honored by Place Beyond the Pines Director Derek ...
    Jun 1, 2022 · Derek Cianfrance directed the late Ray Liotta in “The Place Beyond the Pines.” I had an ambitious movie in my mind that was so sprawling I couldn't quite get ...
  47. [47]
    Why The Place Beyond The Pines Director Derek Cianfrances ...
    May 26, 2022 · As always, Liotta imbues a fierce emotional dimension to the film. Though his role takes a back seat to Gosling and Cooper's dynamic, the actor ...
  48. [48]
    Sin City: A Dame to Kill For (2014) - IMDb
    Rating 6.5/10 (176,921) After saving the life of con artist Sally (Juno Temple) from being killed by businessman Joey (Ray Liotta), he receives a call from ex-lover Ava Lord, who had ...Full cast & crew · Sin City 2: A Dame to Kill For · Parents guide · Trivia
  49. [49]
    Cocaine Bear: Why Ray Liotta's Last Movie Was Changed After His ...
    Apr 30, 2024 · 2023's Cocaine Bear was Ray Liotta's last movie, and a gruesome scene had to be revised following the beloved Goodfellas actor's death.
  50. [50]
    In 'Cocaine Bear,' late Ray Liotta is grizzled, ruthless drug boss for ...
    Feb 24, 2023 · Liotta died suddenly last year at 67. “Cocaine Bear,” directed by Elizabeth Banks, is his first posthumous film. As soon as the movie ends, a ...
  51. [51]
    Charlie Day Regrets Ray Liotta Won't See 'Fool's Paradise' in Theaters
    Apr 9, 2023 · Charlie Day said his “biggest regret” is that the late Ray Liotta won't be able to see the audience's reaction to their upcoming film, Fool's Paradise.Missing: posthumous | Show results with:posthumous
  52. [52]
    Fool's Paradise (2023) - Rotten Tomatoes
    Rating 20% (45) Discover reviews, ratings, and trailers for Fool's Paradise (2023) on Rotten Tomatoes. Stay updated with critic and audience scores today!Reviews · Video · Cast and CrewMissing: posthumous | Show results with:posthumous<|control11|><|separator|>
  53. [53]
  54. [54]
    Ray Liotta's Final Scene in 'Dangerous Waters' Was “So Powerful ...
    Oct 17, 2023 · Dangerous Waters director John Barr and star Odeya Rush are recalling the late Ray Liotta's “powerful” final scene.Missing: reception | Show results with:reception
  55. [55]
    Dangerous Waters (2023) - IMDb
    Rating 5.3/10 (2,783) A Mediocre Dive into Dangerous Waters. I recently watched "Dangerous Waters" (2023), and I must say that the film left me with mixed feelings.Dangerous Waters · Filming & production · Official Trailer · Parents guideMissing: posthumous reception
  56. [56]
    Ray Liotta Remembered by 1992 Cast, Including Tyrese Gibson
    Aug 28, 2024 · Tyrese Gibson, Scott Eastwood, Dylan Arnold and their '1992' director Ariel Vromen gathered for an interview and photo shoot to remember Ray ...Missing: reception | Show results with:reception<|control11|><|separator|>
  57. [57]
    Ray Liotta's Final Released Movie Debuts With A High Audience ...
    Aug 31, 2024 · Others included Fool's Paradise and Dangerous Waters, but neither film performed well with critics and audiences. However, a generally positive ...
  58. [58]
    '1992' review: L.A. riots are the backdrop of so-so thriller
    Aug 29, 2024 · A notorious day in L.A. history becomes the backdrop of a so-so heist thriller in '1992'. Tyrese Gibson stares ahead with a steely expression.
  59. [59]
    'Goodfellas' Actor Ray Liotta Is Engaged! Meet His Fiancé, Jacy Nittolo
    Dec 31, 2020 · They met on the set of The Rat Pack and they were married by an Elvis Presley impersonator in Las Vegas. In 1998, they had a daughter together ...
  60. [60]
    Ray Liotta's Wife: Find Out About His Ex-Wife & His Fiancée
    May 26, 2022 · Ray and Michelle's marriage ultimately fell apart, and the couple divorced in 2004. “I had a relationship after I got divorced and it didn't ...
  61. [61]
    Inside Ray Liotta's marriage to ex-wife Michelle Grace before ...
    May 26, 2022 · But the iconic Goodfellas star had a loving marriage to ex-wife Michelle Grace, 53, before their 2004 divorce. Sign up for the Entertainment ...
  62. [62]
    All About the Late Ray Liotta's Daughter Karsen Liotta - People.com
    Aug 15, 2025 · Karsen Liotta, daughter of late Ray Liotta, is keeping his legacy alive. Here's everything to know about Ray Liotta's daughter.
  63. [63]
    Tribeca Film Festival Interview: Ray Liotta Takes a Rare ... - HuffPost
    Jun 28, 2010 · He talks about fatherhood, how an intimate knowledge of Jackie ... Your daughter Karsen is here with you at the Festival, and in this ...
  64. [64]
    Ray Liotta: An Oral History - Esquire
    Feb 24, 2023 · Love you very much, honey, Ray Liotta.” Karsen Liotta: He'd pick me up from school. If I had dance or soccer or whatever, he would take me. He ...
  65. [65]
    Inside Ray Liotta's loving blended family after daughter Karsen set ...
    May 27, 2022 · The two were introduced to each other when Liotta's 23-year-old daughter Karsen met Nittolo's son at a party. Karsen convinced Nittolo to go out ...Missing: Queens | Show results with:Queens
  66. [66]
    Ray Liotta is engaged to girlfriend Jacy Nittolo - Page Six
    Dec 30, 2020 · All Ray Liotta wanted for Christmas was a fiancée, and he got it. Liotta, 66, announced on Instagram this week that he is engaged to girlfriend Jacy Nittolo.
  67. [67]
    Inside Ray Liotta's Romance with Fiancée Jacy Nittolo - People.com
    May 26, 2022 · Ray Liotta once called his fiancée Jacy Nittolo the "love of my life." PEOPLE confirmed Thursday that the Goodfellas actor died at age 67.
  68. [68]
    TOUGH GUY RAY LIOTTA INSISTS HE'S A SOFTY - Chicago Tribune
    Aug 28, 1997 · But the soft-spoken actor insists he's a pussycat. “I know what the overall perception of me has been, but I've only been in one fight in my ...
  69. [69]
    Ray Liotta's daughter shares famous tough guy's soft side - Fox News
    Feb 24, 2023 · Ray Liotta's daughter shares famous tough guy's soft side: 'He was like a big teddy bear' · Karsen Liotta accepted her father's posthumous star ...
  70. [70]
    Ray Liotta Wants to be Involved in Future 'Field of Dreams' MLB ...
    Sep 17, 2021 · Every Major League Baseball Pitch, Explained. Mayday! (Trevor May ... Interview. The Rich Eisen Show•52K views · 19:51. Go to channel ...
  71. [71]
    Watch Ray Liotta Run Amok in Ed Sheeran's 'Bloodstream'
    Mar 23, 2015 · Ray Liotta plays washed-up, hair-metal star in Ed Sheeran's 'Bloodstream' video. 'Goodfellas' actor plays a washed-up, crazy rocker in singer's latest 'X' ...Missing: appearances | Show results with:appearances
  72. [72]
    Ray Liotta Birthday - National Today
    Dec 18, 2024 · Ray Liotta was born on December 22, 1954, in Newark, New Jersey, to unmarried parents who gave him up for adoption. Alfred and Mary, his foster ...
  73. [73]
    Look Who Joins the NJ Hall of Fame Greats
    Jan 17, 2017 · The New Jersey Hall of Fame announces the 15 newest inductees to be honored at this year's Induction Ceremony on May 7, 2017, at the historic Convention Hall ...
  74. [74]
    Ray Liotta Dead: Hollywood Pays Tribute - The Hollywood Reporter
    May 26, 2022 · Liotta's rep Jennifer Craig at Gersh confirmed his death to The Hollywood Reporter, saying the actor died in his sleep while on location.Missing: arrangements | Show results with:arrangements
  75. [75]
    Ray Liotta Cause of Death Revealed 1 Year Later - People.com
    May 8, 2023 · The actor died in his sleep in the Dominican Republic at age 67 on May 26, 2022. He died as a result of issues with his heart and respiratory system.Missing: autopsy | Show results with:autopsy
  76. [76]
    Ray Liotta's cause of death revealed in autopsy report - CBS News
    May 8, 2023 · Officials on Monday confirmed the 67-year-old died as a result of atherosclerotic disease, which is the build-up of fats, cholesterol and other substances in ...
  77. [77]
    Ray Liotta's cause of death revealed: report - FOX 9
    May 8, 2023 · According to documents obtained by TMZ, Liotta died from respiratory issues, including respiratory insufficiency, pulmonary edema and acute heart failure.
  78. [78]
    Ray Liotta's Fiancée Jacy Nittolo Releases Statement After Actor's ...
    May 28, 2022 · A source tells PEOPLE no foul play is suspected in his death and that Nittolo was with him when he passed. Nittolo released a statement on ...
  79. [79]
    Jacy Nittolo remembers 'deep love' with fiancé Ray Liotta - CNN
    May 29, 2022 · Ray Liotta's fiancée, Jacy Nittolo, penned an emotional tribute to the late actor days after his death in the Dominican Republic.Missing: met Somewhere Queens<|control11|><|separator|>
  80. [80]
    Ray Liotta's Family Speaks Out After Actor's Death - Us Weekly
    May 28, 2022 · Following his split from Grace, the late actor eventually found love with Nittolo and proposed in December 2020. “He was the most beautiful ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  81. [81]
    Ray Liotta's family hire private jet to fly his body home - Daily Mail
    May 30, 2022 · Ray Liotta's family hire private jet to fly his body home from the Dominican Republic as his devastated fiancée Jacy Nittolo, 47, breaks her silence on his ...
  82. [82]
    Goodfella's Ray Liotta's body to be flown back from Dominican ...
    Jun 4, 2022 · The Dominican funeral home where Liotta's body has been held is said to have made arrangements to transport him back to LA via private plane at ...
  83. [83]
    Ray Liotta's Family Honors Him on What Would've Been His 68th ...
    Dec 19, 2022 · "Today Ray would have been 68. I believe he created a lot for everyone that will live on forever, especially in the hearts of Ray's sister Linda, his daughter ...
  84. [84]
    RAY LIOTTA TO BE HONORED POSTHUMOUSLY WITH A STAR ...
    Award-winning actor Ray Liotta will be honored posthumously by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce on February 24, at 12:30 PM with the 2,749th star on the ...Missing: 2023 | Show results with:2023
  85. [85]
    Ray Liotta to Receive Posthumous Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame
    Feb 17, 2023 · The late Cocaine Bear actor is set to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame next Friday, nine months after he died unexpectedly at age 67.
  86. [86]
    Ray Liotta: Scorsese and De Niro lead tributes to the late Goodfellas ...
    May 27, 2022 · De Niro said: "I was very saddened to learn of Ray's passing." Goodfellas star Ray Liotta dies aged 67. "He is way too young to have left us, ...
  87. [87]
    Ray Liotta Tributes Pour in After Actor Dies Suddenly - Variety
    May 26, 2022 · His “Goodfellas” co-star Robert De Niro shared a statement, writing, “I was very saddened to learn of Ray's passing. He is way too young to have ...
  88. [88]
    Ray Liotta(1954-2022) - IMDb
    He was born in Newark, New Jersey, and was adopted by Mary (Edgar), a township clerk, and Alfred Liotta, an auto parts store owner. He studied acting at the ...Biography · News · Dangerous Waters · No Escape
  89. [89]
    Remembering Ray Liotta, Who Played Men From the Dark Side with ...
    May 26, 2022 · And the brilliance of Liotta's acting is that he put that twinge of middle-class humanity right at the center of the character. The performance ...
  90. [90]
    Ray Liotta Movies & TV Shows List - Rotten Tomatoes
    Liotta played the role of Joey Perrini on the soap from 1978 to 1981. After a few years on "Another World" Liotta began getting the itch to broaden his acting ...
  91. [91]
    Ray Liotta | Television Academy
    One of his earliest roles was as Joey Perrini on the soap opera Another World, on which he appeared from 1978 to 1981. In addition to his film roles, Liotta ...
  92. [92]
    Ray Liotta Dies: 'Another World,' 'ER' & More Memorable TV Roles
    May 26, 2022 · While many may recognize him for his work in Goodfellas and Field of Dreams, he has had some memorable roles on TV as well, including starring ...Missing: early | Show results with:early
  93. [93]
    Ray Liotta - A Career In Pictures - Deadline
    May 26, 2022 · Ray Liotta's career took off like a rocket shot with Something Wild (1986), Field of Dreams (1989) and Goodfellas (1990) accounting for three of his first five ...
  94. [94]
    Crazy Times (TV Movie 1981) - IMDb
    Rating 5.5/10 (81) Crazy Times: Directed by Lee Philips. With Michael Paré, David Caruso, Ray Liotta, Talia Balsam. Follows the exploits of three teenage friends sharing the ...
  95. [95]
  96. [96]
    "Frasier" Frasier Grinch (TV Episode 1995) - IMDb
    Rating 8/10 (1,179) Becky Ann Baker · Marge · Klee Bragger · Ned · Ray Liotta · Bob; (voice). Michael G. Hawkins · Santa; (uncredited). Moose · Eddie; (uncredited).Full cast & crew · Connections · Peri Gilpin as Roz Doyle · Tegan West as Jack
  97. [97]
    'Frasier': 10 Stars Who Were Guest Callers - Collider
    Mar 22, 2023 · Frasier is in the middle of a call with a listener named Bob, voiced by the star of the iconic film Goodfellas', Ray Liotta. At first, it ...
  98. [98]
    Ray Liotta Movies and Shows - ‎Apple TV
    Learn about Ray Liotta on Apple TV. Browse shows and movies that feature Ray Liotta including Hannibal, Goodfellas, and more.Missing: 1982 1983
  99. [99]
    "Just Shoot Me!" Liotta? Liotta! (TV Episode 2002) - IMDb
    Rating 7.2/10 (142) Ray Liotta is back and he's obsessed with Maya. He even vows to give up show business for her, but can't adjust to normal life.
  100. [100]
    Ray Liotta Had A Fantastic Cameo On Just Shoot Me That People ...
    May 26, 2022 · In 2001, Liotta played a parody of himself in two episodes of the sixth season of "Just Shoot Me," an NBC sitcom that ran for seven seasons over five years.
  101. [101]
  102. [102]
    Ray Liotta - Phineas and Ferb (TV Show) - Behind The Voice Actors
    Ray Liotta is the voice of Ray Liotta in Phineas and Ferb. TV Show: Phineas and Ferb Franchise: Phineas and Ferb
  103. [103]
    Black Bird (TV Mini Series 2022) - IMDb
    Rating 8.1/10 (134,969) Jimmy Keene is sentenced to 10 years in a minimum security prison but he cuts a deal with the FBI to befriend a suspected serial killer.Black Bird · Black Bird (2022–2022) · Episode list · Official Trailer
  104. [104]
    All of Ray Liotta's Video Game Performances - Game Rant
    May 30, 2022 · Ray Liotta's first-ever video game voice acting role was for Grand Theft Auto: Vice City's protagonist, the "Harwood Butcher" Tommy Vercetti.
  105. [105]
    Going Hollywood Wasn't Easy for Grand Theft Auto - WIRED
    Mar 28, 2012 · Actor Ray Liotta gave a voice to Tommy Vercetti, the protagonist of Grand Theft Auto: Vice City. Image: Rockstar. Save this story. Save this ...Missing: narrative | Show results with:narrative
  106. [106]
    Grand Theft Auto | Video Game Sales Wiki - Fandom
    As of March 26, 2008, Grand Theft Auto: Vice City has sold 17.5 million units according to Take-Two Interactive and over 6.2 million in the United States alone.Sales · History · Grand Theft Auto: Vice City · Grand Theft Auto IV
  107. [107]
    Ray Liotta Wins Award for GTA Vice City (2003) - YouTube
    Oct 12, 2023 · Ray Liotta wins award for Best Performance By A Human for his role in Grand Theft Auto: Vice City by Take 2 / Rockstar Games at VGA (Spike ...
  108. [108]
    Grand Theft Auto: Vice City (Video Game 2002) - Awards - IMDb
    2004 Winner Golden Satellite Award. Outstanding Character from an Interactive Media. For "Tommy Vercetti" (Ray Liotta). Fairuza Balk, Ray Liotta, ...
  109. [109]
    Ray Liotta - GTA Wiki - Fandom
    He provided the voice of Tommy Vercetti, the protagonist of Grand Theft Auto: Vice City. On October 9th 2014, Ray Liotta posted a Q&A thread on Reddit a day ...Missing: narrative | Show results with:narrative
  110. [110]
    An Interview with UM Alum Ray Liotta about his new film NARC
    Nov 19, 2002 · Liotta, the star of classic American films ranging from Goodfellas to Field of Dreams, was in town to promote his newest film, Narc, and talked ...Missing: BFA 1974-1978
  111. [111]
  112. [112]
    Belber's Match, with Langella, Liotta and Adams, Opens on ... - Playbill
    Apr 8, 2004 · The three-person drama starring Frank Langella, Ray Liotta and Jane Adams began previews at the Plymouth Theatre March 13.
  113. [113]
    Ray Liotta - Hollywood Walk of Fame
    Liotta created notable performances in films like Copland opposite Robert De Niro and Sylvester Stallone for director James Mangold, Hannibal opposite Anthony ...Missing: stage | Show results with:stage
  114. [114]
    David Guetta Feat. Sam Martin: Lovers on the Sun - IMDb
    Rating 7.2/10 (63) David Guetta Feat. Sam Martin: Lovers on the Sun: Directed by Mark Klasfeld. With Jamie Gray Hyder, Andrew Keegan, Ray Liotta. Official music video for "LoversMissing: appearances | Show results with:appearances
  115. [115]
    Lovers On The Sun - VideoStatic
    Aug 12, 2014 · This new David Guetta video sets you up for a Spaghetti Western homage with Ray Liotta as a villain deadset on preventing our hero and heroine from living ...
  116. [116]
    David Guetta 'Lovers On The Sun' by Marc Klasfeld | Videos
    Aug 20, 2014 · Marc Klasfeld heads to the Wild West with this big-budget fun caper for the new David Guetta single Lovers On The Sun - starring movie actor Ray Liotta.
  117. [117]
    Ed Sheeran Feat. Rudimental: Bloodstream (Music Video 2015)
    Rating 6.2/10 (48) Ed Sheeran Feat. Rudimental: Bloodstream: Directed by Emil Nava. With Mikaela Holmes, Ray Liotta, Ed Sheeran, Pandie Suicide. Official music video for ...
  118. [118]
    Ed Sheeran unveils new 'Bloodstream' video starring Ray Liotta - NME
    Mar 24, 2015 · Ed Sheeran has released a new video for the track 'Bloodstream'. Directed by Emil Nava, the piece features actor Ray Liotta as a wealthy but washed-up rock ...Missing: interests | Show results with:interests
  119. [119]
    Outstanding Guest Actor In A Drama Series 2005 - Nominees ...
    Outstanding Guest Actor In A Drama Series ; Red Buttons. as Mr. Rubadoux. ER ; Ray Liotta. as Charlie Metcalf. ER ; Charles Durning. as Ernie Yost. Ncis.
  120. [120]
    'Ray,' 'Housewives' nab Prism honors - Variety
    “Desperate Housewives” was honored in the TV comedy multi-episode storyline category. Ray Liotta got the nod for performance in a drama series episode for ...
  121. [121]
    BSFC Winners: 1980s - Boston Society of Film Critics
    Best Supporting Actor – Tie: Dennis Hopper for Blue Velvet and Ray Liotta for Something Wild; Best Supporting Actress – Dianne Wiest for Hannah and Her ...
  122. [122]
    Here are the Winners of the 35th Film Independent Spirit Awards.
    Feb 8, 2020 · ROBERT ALTMAN AWARD – Marriage Story (DIRECTOR: Noah Baumbach; CASTING DIRECTORS: Douglas Aibel, Francine Maisler; ENSEMBLE CAST: Alan Alda ...