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The Hollywood Godfather Podcast

The Hollywood Godfather Podcast

GRI Entertainment

Society & Culture, True Crime, Tv & Film

4.7 • 811 Ratings

Overview

Welcome to The Hollywood Godfather Podcast. Hosted by The Godfather star Gianni Russo and co-host Jeanie Raymond, this captivating podcast dives deep into Russo’s incredible life, from his history with the mob to his friendships with Hollywood legends, Vatican insiders, U.S. presidents, and iconic figures from around the world. Every Wednesday, Gianni and Jeanie bring listeners behind the scenes of some of the most compelling stories in entertainment and organized crime, often joined by special celebrity guests. Tune in for firsthand accounts of untold stories, candid conversations, and a journey through a life that blends crime, fame, and power.

961 Episodes

S17E313: Mailbag Special "Birthday" Edition

In this episode of the 'Hollywood Godfather' podcast, the hosts celebrate the birthday of their special guest, Patricia, who is also the mother of co-host Jeanie. The lively conversation covers various topics, from the challenges Gianni Russo faced growing up, including his fight with polio and a traumatic hospital incident, to his remarkable career in Hollywood and connections with influential figures like Frank Sinatra and Frank Costello. The discussion also includes humorous and heartwarming anecdotes, reflections on life and perseverance, and ends with a warm birthday serenade to Patricia, inspiring listeners with messages of resilience and positivity. 00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement00:39 Celebrating Patricia's Birthday01:20 Gianni's Childhood and Overcoming Polio02:21 Reflections on Positivity and Resilience07:04 Gianni's Mentors: Frank Sinatra and Marlon Brando07:58 Mailbag Questions and Patricia's First Question19:37 Gianni's Family and Real Estate Ventures22:44 Upcoming Netflix Project and Legacy23:49 Commercial Break and Event Announcement25:27 Mobsters and the Black Panthers26:18 Tropicana Tales and Elvis Presley28:35 Entrepreneurial Journeys30:31 Family and Personal Reflections38:52 Golf and Business Insights41:23 Overcoming Adversity46:20 Final Thoughts and BlessingsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 23 April 2025

S1E20: Episode 02 - Tough Guys

Transcribed - Published: 18 April 2025

S17E4: On The Mark Rebroadcast - Episode 7 - Marlon Brando, The Godfather Mob Secrets with actor author Gianni Russo

Marlon Brando, The Godfather Mob Secrets with actor author Gianni RussoSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 16 April 2025

S1E7: On The Mark Rebroadcast - Episode 7 - Marlon Brando, The Godfather Mob Secrets with actor author Gianni Russo

Marlon Brando, The Godfather Mob Secrets with actor author Gianni RussoSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 16 April 2025

S17E312: Season 17 - Episode 312 - Alto Knights: Creative Differences & True Life Moments

Gianni shares his perspective on what was accurate and what was dramatized for the big screen. We highlight the amazing performances by Debra Messing and Kathrine Narducci, discussing how both actresses brought their characters to life. Don’t miss this fascinating look at fact vs. fiction in Alto Knights!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 13 April 2025

S17E311: Season 17 - Episode 311 - Alto Knights & the Real Mob Bosses: Frank Costello & Vito Genovese

In this episode, we discuss the upcoming film ALTO KNIGHTS and the real history behind the legendary mob bosses it portrays. Frank Costello and Vito Genovese-two of the most powerful figures in organized crime- are both played by Robert De Niro. We explore their rivalry, their impact on the Mafia, and how Hollywood is bringing their story to the big screen.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 13 April 2025

Alto Knights & the Real Mob Bosses: Frank Costello & Vito Genovese

In this episode, we discuss the upcoming film ALTO KNIGHTS and the real history behind the legendary mob bosses it portrays. Frank Costello and Vito Genovese-two of the most powerful figures in organized crime- are both played by Robert De Niro. We explore their rivalry, their impact on the Mafia, and how Hollywood is bringing their story to the big screen.

Transcribed - Published: 2 April 2025

S17E310: Gianni Russo's Show-Stopping Month: David Burke's Red Horse, Capo's So Boston & ScratchNR

In this episode Gianni and Jeanie dive into Gianni's whirlwind month of performances - from Capo's South Boston to David Burke's Red Horse at Bernard's and Scratch Bar & Grill in New Rochelle. They share behind-the-scenes stories, the incredible people Gianni met along the way, and the unexpected opportunities that have come knocking since these events. Tune in for an exciting conversation about how each appearance has opened new doors and what's next on the horizon! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 26 March 2025

Gianni Russo's Show-Stopping Month: David Burke's Red Horse, Capo's So Boston & ScratchNR

In this episode Gianni and Jeanie dive into Gianni's whirlwind month of performances - from Capo's South Boston to David Burke's Red Horse at Bernard's and Scratch Bar & Grill in New Rochelle. They share behind-the-scenes stories, the incredible people Gianni met along the way, and the unexpected opportunities that have come knocking since these events. Tune in for an exciting conversation about how each appearance has opened new doors and what's next on the horizon!

Transcribed - Published: 26 March 2025

Mailbag Edition: Listener's Questions

In this mailbag episode Gianni answers listeners questions about everything from Evel Knievel to surprise pets on the set of The Godfather.

Transcribed - Published: 19 March 2025

S17E309: Mailbag Edition: Listener's Questions

In this mailbag episode Gianni answers listeners questions about everything from Evel Knievel to surprise pets on the set of The Godfather.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 19 March 2025

S17E308: Season 17 - Episode 308 - ERIC SHAWN on FRANK COSTELLO: THE REAL LIFE GODFATHER

We meet with Fox News anchor and reporter, Eric Shawn. to discuss the series Frank Costello-The Real-Life Godfather. We dive into Costello's powerful influence, his connections to the Mafia and politics, and the lasting legacy of the man they called the Prime Minister of the Mafia. Don't miss this fascinating look at one of organized crime's most notorious figures.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 12 March 2025

Season 17 - Episode 308 - ERIC SHAWN on FRANK COSTELLO: THE REAL LIFE GODFATHER

We meet with Fox News anchor and reporter, Eric Shawn. to discuss the series Frank Costello-The Real-Life Godfather. We dive into Costello's powerful influence, his connections to the Mafia and politics, and the lasting legacy of the man they called the Prime Minister of the Mafia. Don't miss this fascinating look at one of organized crime's most notorious figures.

Transcribed - Published: 12 March 2025

In the Spotlight with multitalented Al Sapienza: Latest Roles and Revelations

Join Gianni and Jeanie as they welcome the multi-talented talented Al Sapienza to the show! From his Iconic roles in the Sopranos, NCIS, Reacher and The Tracker, Al opens up about his fast-paced lifestyle, unwavering work ethic, and what truly makes him happy. Don't miss this captivating conversation about the life, career, and the drive behind his success!

Transcribed - Published: 5 March 2025

S17E307: In the Spotlight with multitalented Al Sapienza: Latest Roles and Revelations

Join Gianni and Jeanie as they welcome the multi-talented talented Al Sapienza to the show! From his Iconic roles in the Sopranos, NCIS, Reacher and The Tracker, Al opens up about his fast-paced lifestyle, unwavering work ethic, and what truly makes him happy. Don't miss this captivating conversation about the life, career, and the drive behind his success!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 5 March 2025

S E307: In the Spotlight with multitalented Al Sapienza: Latest Roles and Revelations

Join Gianni and Jeanie as they welcome the multi-talented talented Al Sapienza to the show! From his Iconic roles in the Sopranos, NCIS, Reacher and The Tracker, Al opens up about his fast-paced lifestyle, unwavering work ethic, and what truly makes him happy. Don't miss this captivating conversation about the life, career, and the drive behind his success!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 5 March 2025

S17E306: On the Road with Gianni: Spotlight on Recent Shows & Upcoming Performances

In this exciting episode, Gianni and Jeanie sit down to talk about Gianni's recent shows and the incredible venues he's performed at. From the classic charm of Capo's in South Boston to the elegant atmosphere of David Burke’s Red Horse at Bernard’s, and the vibrant energy of Scratch Bar & Grill in New Rochelle, Gianni shares memorable moments from each performance.But that's not all — they also give listeners a sneak peek at Gianni's upcoming appearances, so fans can mark their calendars and catch him live. Tune in for stories, laughter, and all the details about where Gianni's taking the stage next! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 26 February 2025

S E306: On the Road with Gianni: Spotlight on Recent Shows & Upcoming Performances

In this exciting episode, Gianni and Jeanie sit down to talk about Gianni's recent shows and the incredible venues he's performed at. From the classic charm of Capo's in South Boston to the elegant atmosphere of David Burke’s Red Horse at Bernard’s, and the vibrant energy of Scratch Bar & Grill in New Rochelle, Gianni shares memorable moments from each performance.But that's not all — they also give listeners a sneak peek at Gianni's upcoming appearances, so fans can mark their calendars and catch him live. Tune in for stories, laughter, and all the details about where Gianni's taking the stage next! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 26 February 2025

On the Road with Gianni: Spotlight on Recent Shows & Upcoming Performances

In this exciting episode, Gianni and Jeanie sit down to talk about Gianni's recent shows and the incredible venues he's performed at. From the classic charm of Capo's in South Boston to the elegant atmosphere of David Burke’s Red Horse at Bernard’s, and the vibrant energy of Scratch Bar & Grill in New Rochelle, Gianni shares memorable moments from each performance.But that's not all — they also give listeners a sneak peek at Gianni's upcoming appearances, so fans can mark their calendars and catch him live. Tune in for stories, laughter, and all the details about where Gianni's taking the stage next!

Transcribed - Published: 26 February 2025

S E305: Season 17 - Episode 305 - The Mailbag

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.

Transcribed - Published: 19 February 2025

S17E305: Season 17 - Episode 305 - The Mailbag

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.

Transcribed - Published: 19 February 2025

Season 17 - Episode 305 - The Mailbag

Gianni & Jeanie answer our viewer’s and listener’s questions.

Transcribed - Published: 19 February 2025

S E313: Re-Broadcast - Breaking Bread with Joe Piantedosi 02-02

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.

Transcribed - Published: 12 February 2025

S E3: Re-Broadcast - Breaking Bread with Joe Piantedosi 02-02

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.

Transcribed - Published: 12 February 2025

Re-Broadcast - Breaking Bread with Joe Piantedosi 02-02

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.

Transcribed - Published: 12 February 2025

S E312: Season 17 - Episode 303 - Highlights from Gianni’s DEAD Talk interview with David Ferrugio. Mafia Tales, Hollywood Drama & more. Part 1

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.

Transcribed - Published: 29 January 2025

Season 17 - Episode 303 - Highlights from Gianni’s DEAD Talk interview with David Ferrugio. Mafia Tales, Hollywood Drama & more. Part 1

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.

Transcribed - Published: 29 January 2025

S17E303: Season 17 - Episode 303 - Highlights from Gianni’s DEAD Talk interview with David Ferrugio. Mafia Tales, Hollywood Drama & more. Part 1

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.

Transcribed - Published: 29 January 2025

S E311: Season 17 - Episode 302 - Presidential Beginnings: The Inaugurations of JFK and Donald Trump

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.

Transcribed - Published: 22 January 2025

S17E302: Season 17 - Episode 302 - Presidential Beginnings: The Inaugurations of JFK and Donald Trump

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.

Transcribed - Published: 22 January 2025

Season 17 - Episode 302 - Presidential Beginnings: The Inaugurations of JFK and Donald Trump

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.

Transcribed - Published: 22 January 2025

Season 17 - Episode 301 - Solid Gold Chatter- Demi's Triumph, Carter's Legacy and Elvis's Impact

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.

Transcribed - Published: 15 January 2025

S E310: Season 17 - Episode 301 - Solid Gold Chatter- Demi's Triumph, Carter's Legacy and Elvis's Impact

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.

Transcribed - Published: 15 January 2025

S17E301: Season 17 - Episode 301 - Solid Gold Chatter- Demi's Triumph, Carter's Legacy and Elvis's Impact

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.

Transcribed - Published: 15 January 2025

S E309: Season 17 - Episode 300 - Mailbag

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.

Transcribed - Published: 8 January 2025

S17E300: Season 17 - Episode 300 - Mailbag

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.

Transcribed - Published: 8 January 2025

Season 17 - Episode 300 - Mailbag

Gianni and Jeanie answer our listeners' questions.

Transcribed - Published: 8 January 2025

S16E299: Season 16 - Episode 299 - LIberty's Last Champion Barry Slotnick

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.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 1 January 2025

Season 16 - Episode 299 - LIberty's Last Champion Barry Slotnick

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.

Transcribed - Published: 1 January 2025

S E308: Season 16 - Episode 299 - LIberty's Last Champion Barry Slotnick

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.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 1 January 2025

S16E298: Season 16 - Episode 298 - Generations Apart: Growing Up in the ’50s, ’70s, and Today

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 they are facing.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 25 December 2024

S E307: Season 16 - Episode 298 - Generations Apart: Growing Up in the ’50s, ’70s, and Today

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 they are facing.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 25 December 2024

Season 16 - Episode 298 - Generations Apart: Growing Up in the ’50s, ’70s, and Today

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 they are facing.

Transcribed - Published: 25 December 2024

S E2: All About Al: The Pacino podcast - Episode 34: The Godfather Part II with Gianni Russo

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 Mafia family helped him get the job on the film in the first place.   All About Al: The Pacino Podcast is written, produced and presented by Mark Searby Originally Aired Monday, December 16, 2024See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 18 December 2024

All About Al: The Pacino podcast - Episode 34: The Godfather Part II with Gianni Russo

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 Mafia family helped him get the job on the film in the first place.   All About Al: The Pacino Podcast is written, produced and presented by Mark Searby Originally Aired Monday, December 16, 2024

Transcribed - Published: 18 December 2024

S E306: All About Al: The Pacino podcast - Episode 34: The Godfather Part II with Gianni Russo

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 Mafia family helped him get the job on the film in the first place.   All About Al: The Pacino Podcast is written, produced and presented by Mark Searby Originally Aired Monday, December 16, 2024See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 18 December 2024

S16E297: Season 16 - Episode 297 - Beyond the Godfather-Gianni Russo's Career in Film and TV

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, Jake and the Fatman, Prison Break and many more. Join us as we explore the highlights of Gianni's dynamic career on both the big and the small screens.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 11 December 2024

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