John Aprea, a seasoned actor celebrated for his memorable roles across television and film, including his endearing portrayal in Full House, has passed away at the age of 83. Fans and colleagues alike mourn the loss of a talent whose career spanned decades and touched numerous iconic productions.
Aprea, who brought to life Nick Katsopolis, father to John Stamos’s Jesse in the beloved sitcom Full House, died of natural causes on August 7th, in his Los Angeles home, surrounded by his family, according to his manager Will Levine, who spoke with TMZ. While his role in Full House introduced him to a generation of viewers, Aprea’s acting journey began much earlier and encompassed a diverse range of characters and genres.
His career took off in 1968 with a part in the Steve McQueen classic Bullitt, where he played a killer, setting the stage for a career filled with compelling performances. He further solidified his presence in cinema with a role in the legendary The Godfather Part II (1974), portraying a young Salvatore Tessio. This role remained a career highlight for Aprea, even though he had initially auditioned for the part of Michael Corleone in The Godfather.
John Aprea in Another World and Full House
” The Godfather Part II just stays with you,” Aprea reflected in a 2020 interview with Digital Journal. “It’s a part of who you are. It is one of the best films ever made.” He confessed to repeatedly being captivated by the film whenever it aired, highlighting the enduring impact of the Francis Ford Coppola masterpiece and Mario Puzo’s screenplay.
For many, John Aprea will be fondly remembered for his recurring role as Nick Katsopolis in Full House. He appeared in the original series in the late 1980s and reprised his role in the Netflix sequel series, Fuller House, nearly thirty years later, demonstrating his enduring connection to the character and the show’s legacy. His portrayal of Jesse Katsopolis’s father added another layer to the family dynamic of the show, contributing to its heartwarming appeal.
Beyond Full House and The Godfather, Aprea’s television credits are extensive and varied. He was a constant presence on the soap opera Another World from 1989 to 1998, where he played both the criminal Luke Castigliano and the wealthy Alexander Nikos, showcasing his range as an actor. His other notable TV roles include Lt. Vince Novelli in Matt Houston, Sheriff Jack North in Falcon Crest, and Manny Vasquez in Knots Landing, further cementing his status as a versatile television actor.
Aprea’s filmography also includes appearances in notable movies such as The Stepford Wives (1975), New Jack City (1991), and The Manchurian Candidate (2004), proving his ability to transition seamlessly between different genres and mediums. His final acting credit was in the web series The Bay, where he played Jack Madison for nine episodes. Gregori J. Martin, the showrunner for The Bay, praised Aprea as “a true class gentleman” and expressed his honor in directing him, as shared with Digital Journal.
News of John Aprea’s passing has prompted heartfelt tributes from those who knew him and admired his work. Knots Landing actor Paul Carafotes shared an Instagram post remembering Aprea as an “old pal” with whom he shared “lots of laughs,” reflecting the warm personal connections Aprea made throughout his career.
John Aprea’s legacy is that of a dedicated and versatile actor who left a lasting impression on television and film. From the crime-ridden streets of Bullitt and the family drama of Full House to the complex narratives of soap operas and acclaimed films, Aprea’s contributions to the entertainment world will be remembered and cherished.
