The Hollywood Godfather Podcast
Welcome to The Hollywood Godfather Podcast. Actor, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and Mafia associate Gianni Russo best known for portraying Carlo in ‘The Godfather’ has teamed with an unlikely ally, Patrick Picciarelli, writer, retired NYPD lieutenant, and current private investigator to put together a thought-provoking, tragic, funny, and often shocking view of Gianni’s life in the mob and the movies. His counterpart and co-host, Patrick, gives his insights into the world of crime, and comments on characters both men have known, as well as the current happenings in Hollywood and the mob.
The friendship between Gianni and Patrick did not have the usual beginnings of boyhood camaraderie. Both Gianni and Patrick were born and raised in New York’s Little Italy and lived a scant short block from each other, but that’s where the similarities end. Gianni sought his future with the Mafia, while Patrick became a New York cop. Their paths crossed a few times, and each was on the other’s radar;...
Our Editor's Take
The Hollywood Godfather Podcast invites listeners into the world of organized crime. Its hosts know this world in vivid detail, but their experiences are from opposing sides. Gianni Russo appeared as Carlo Rizzi in The Godfather and had many friends in the Mafia. His cohost may surprise listeners. Patrick Picciarelli is a former NYPD lieutenant and private investigator.
Patrick and Gianni weren't always friends. Although the two grew up in the same area of New York, their careers took them down opposing paths. This podcast showcases their renewed friendship as they discuss the collision of their worlds. Patrick and Gianni share stories of Hollywood stars, such as Marlon Brando, and prominent politicians. Special guests join them throughout, including notorious Chinatown gang member Kenny Wong.
Early podcast episodes explore Gianni's life before his famous role in The Godfather. Listeners may not know that he spent five years of his childhood hospitalized due to polio. A transistor radio was Gianni's only connection to the outside world. He recalls listening to it on his birthday, which he shared with Frank Sinatra. The icon gave Gianni hope that he could one day leave "this morbid place" and make something of his life. Once Gianni had found the strength to recover, it wasn't long before he ran errands for Frank Costello.
Each podcast episode explores a different story of life within and around the mob. One reveals the life of the so-called "Mafia Psycho: Carmine Galante." This figure was in and out of jail but always climbing higher in the ranks of New York gangsters. Patrick and Gianni reveal their connections to Carmine and discuss his astounding life. Another explores "Why Willie Moretti Had to Die." It's a fascinating review of a man the hosts call "illustrious" and why his death was so important.
The Hollywood Godfather Podcast explores real-life true crime with two expert hosts. There are fascinating interviews, unknown stories, and episodes dedicated to answering listeners' emails. New shows premiere every Wednesday.
Episodes
