Actor Richard Foronjy Passes Away At 86

Richard Foronjy, the celebrated character actor known for his memorable roles in Serpico and Midnight Run, has passed away at the age of 86. The news of his death was announced by his family on Tuesday, May 21, through a heartfelt statement on Facebook, noting that Richard “passed peacefully” on Sunday, May 19.

Born Richard Edward Salerno on August 3, 1937, in Brooklyn, New York, Richard’s life journey was anything but ordinary. Before his acting career, he worked as a butcher and had a troubled past, having been arrested over 20 times and serving more than eight years in prison for armed robbery. In a 1987 interview with UPI, he candidly recounted his life of crime, mentioning his first bank job that netted him $170,000 and eventually led to his arrest.

After leaving prison at 32, Richard returned to his butcher job but soon sought a different path. He took acting lessons and began his professional acting career with a role in Serpico, a 1973 film starring Al Pacino and directed by Sidney Lumet. This marked the beginning of a prolific career in film and television. Over the next three decades, Richard’s talent shone through in 79 television shows and films, including notable appearances in Repo Man from 1984 and Carlito’s Way from 1993.

His family, in their tribute, described Richard as a vibrant and joyful person whose presence illuminated every room. 

“Richard was a legend in every sense. He has left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him. With a spirit as vibrant as the sun, he embraced life with unparalleled vigor and enthusiasm. Richard’s outgoing nature and infectious joy illuminated every room he entered, leaving a lasting impression on all who crossed his path,” the family wrote.

In 2020, Richard published a memoir titled From the Mob to the Movies under his birth name, reflecting on his extraordinary life and career. His family acknowledged the complexities of his journey, especially as a father. 

“His journey as a father was marked by challenges and complexities. Richard’s life serves as a reminder that we are all imperfect beings, striving to navigate the intricate depths of relationships and, for some, parenthood,” the family added.

“Though his physical presence may have departed, Richard Foronjy’s spirit will live on through the countless lives he touched and the timeless performances that will continue to inspire generations to come,” the family concluded in their statement.

Richard is survived by his significant other Wendy, his children Charles, Susan, Christine, and Richard, along with 17 grandchildren, several great-grandchildren, and his three brothers.