Movies with Joe Pesci: The Legendary Career of a Hollywood Icon

Introduction

Few actors have ever matched the intensity, range, and distinctive presence of Joe Pesci. Whether he’s delivering sharp-witted one-liners, exploding in unpredictable rages, or quietly stealing scenes with sheer charisma, Pesci has carved out a niche that’s uniquely his own in Hollywood history.

From crime epics like Goodfellas and Casino to comedic classics like Home Alone and My Cousin Vinny, Joe Pesci’s filmography is filled with unforgettable performances that span decades. In this article, we’ll explore Joe Pesci’s life, background, musical roots, education, and of course, a comprehensive journey through his movies — in order — including underrated gems and Oscar-winning milestones.

Who Is Joe Pesci?

Joseph Frank Pesci was born on February 9, 1943, in Newark, New Jersey. Raised in Belleville, a working-class town just outside of New York City, Pesci’s early life was steeped in blue-collar values and Italian-American culture. His parents were both of Italian descent — his mother Mary worked as a barber, while his father Angelo was a forklift driver and bartender.

Pesci began performing at an early age, appearing in stage productions and even as a regular on the television variety show Startime Kids by the time he was 10. He graduated from Belleville High School, but instead of pursuing college, he threw himself into music and acting — two passions that would shape his unique career.

Joe Pesci’s Education and Musical Beginnings

Although Pesci didn’t attend a formal drama school or university, his education came through life experience and entertainment work. In the 1960s, he played guitar in various bands and worked in nightclubs. He was briefly part of Joey Dee and the Starliters, a group famous for the hit “Peppermint Twist.”

In 1968, he released an album under the pseudonym Joe Ritchie called Little Joe Sure Can Sing!, which included covers of pop hits of the era. While this early music career didn’t lead to fame, it set the stage for his later return to music — including a 1998 comedy album Vincent LaGuardia Gambini Sings Just for You (a nod to his character from My Cousin Vinny).

Joe Pesci Movies in Order: A Chronological Look

Joe Pesci’s filmography is as dynamic as his on-screen persona. Here’s a walk through his major films, in mostly chronological order:

The Early Roles (1961–1979)

Hey, Let’s Twist! (1961) – Uncredited dancer role.

The Death Collector (1976) – Low-budget mob film that caught the eye of Robert De Niro and Martin Scorsese.

This obscure movie led to his big break. De Niro saw Pesci’s raw energy and recommended him for a role that would change his life.

Breakthrough and Scorsese Partnership (1980–1995)

Raging Bull (1980) – Joey LaMotta, the loyal but tormented brother of boxer Jake LaMotta (De Niro). Pesci earned his first Academy Award nomination.

Easy Money (1983), Once Upon a Time in America (1984), and Man on Fire (1987) – Supporting but notable roles that built his streetwise persona.

Lethal Weapon 2 (1989) – As fast-talking Leo Getz, Pesci brought comic relief to the action series.

Goodfellas (1990) – Tommy DeVito, an unhinged gangster. Pesci won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for this role. His infamous “Funny how?” scene is legendary.

Home Alone (1990) – As Harry, one half of the bumbling Wet Bandits. Pesci showcased slapstick comedy prowess.

My Cousin Vinny (1992) – A Bronx lawyer navigating Southern courtrooms. A fan favorite, this performance showed Pesci’s comic and dramatic balance.

Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992), Lethal Weapon 3 (1992), A Bronx Tale (1993) – Continuation of iconic roles and collaboration with De Niro.

Casino (1995) – Nicky Santoro, a violent enforcer in Las Vegas. Pesci reunited with Scorsese and De Niro, delivering another unforgettable performance.

Comedy, Retirement, and Return (1996–2010)

8 Heads in a Duffel Bag (1997) and Gone Fishin’ (1997) – Offbeat comedies that didn’t gain critical acclaim but showed Pesci experimenting with genre.

Lethal Weapon 4 (1998) – His final Leo Getz appearance.

Pesci unofficially retired from acting in 1999, appearing in only a few projects over the next decade.

The Good Shepherd (2006) – Small role in De Niro’s directorial effort.

Love Ranch (2010) – A dramatic return, although the film flew under the radar.

The Irishman and Comeback (2019–present)

The Irishman (2019) – After years of retirement, Pesci returned for Scorsese’s crime epic as Russell Bufalino, a quiet but chilling mob boss. The performance earned him his third Oscar nomination.

This role was remarkable for its restraint — unlike the explosive characters of his earlier days, Pesci played Bufalino with cold calculation and subdued menace.

Movies with Joe Pesci Harvard: With Honors (1994)

One standout not always mentioned is With Honors (1994), where Pesci played Simon Wilder, a homeless man living in the boiler room of Harvard University. The film explored themes of friendship, privilege, and redemption. It showcased Pesci’s emotional depth and remains one of his most humanistic roles.

Joe Pesci’s Acting Style and Legacy

Pesci’s acting is often described as electric. He doesn’t just play a character — he embodies them, turning every role into a vivid, living performance. His strength lies in unpredictability — you never quite know what a Joe Pesci character is going to do next.

His height (just 5’4″) never diminished his presence. If anything, it made his intensity more striking. Whether in the streets of New York or a courtroom in Alabama, Pesci commands attention.

He’s also known for his loyalty. Over the years, he frequently collaborated with De Niro, Scorsese, and other directors who respected his instincts. Despite fame, he remains private, living quietly and rarely granting interviews.

Joe Pesci’s Awards and Recognition

Academy Award (Oscar): Best Supporting Actor – Goodfellas (1991)

BAFTA Award: Best Newcomer – Raging Bull (1981)

Various Nominations: The Irishman (2019), Raging Bull (1980), and more.

He’s not the type to chase awards, but when he wins, he does it memorably. His Goodfellas Oscar acceptance speech is one of the shortest in history: just six words — “It’s my privilege. Thank you.”

Joe Pesci Music: A Return to His First Love

In 1998, he released a quirky comedy album titled Vincent LaGuardia Gambini Sings Just for You, blending jazz, swing, and humor. Songs like “Wise Guy” drew from gangster themes with a tongue-in-cheek tone.

In 2019, he released a surprise jazz album Still Singing featuring Maroon 5’s Adam Levine — a testament to his lifelong musical passion.

Is Joe Pesci Alive Today?

Yes, Joe Pesci is alive and well in 2025. Now 82 years old, he leads a private life, mostly away from Hollywood’s spotlight. While not often seen in public, he occasionally resurfaces through music, select film appearances, or tributes.

Joe Pesci Net Worth

Pesci’s estimated net worth is around $50 million. Though he took long breaks from acting, his enduring film legacy, real estate investments, and music ventures have kept him financially comfortable.

Why Joe Pesci Matters

Joe Pesci is more than just an actor; he’s a cultural icon. His influence stretches from mafia dramas to slapstick comedies. He’s part of an elite class of performers who leave a lasting impact with relatively few films.

From the alleyways of Goodfellas to the dorm rooms of With Honors, Pesci has captured the American psyche in a way few others have.

Final Thoughts: A Legacy that Lives On

Joe Pesci’s journey from a kid in New Jersey to a Hollywood legend is nothing short of extraordinary. His ability to flip from terrifying to hilarious — often in the same scene — is a gift few possess.

At Chopmagazine.com, we celebrate artists like Joe Pesci not just for their fame, but for their fearless commitment to craft. Whether he’s breaking noses or breaking into song, Joe Pesci reminds us that talent, when paired with passion, creates timeless art.