One of the more legendary Hollywood figures of our time has sadly passed away.
News broke on Thursday that Wednesday evening, actor James Caan had died.
His family announced his death via Twitter on Thursday afternoon.
It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Jimmy on the evening of July 6.
The family appreciates the outpouring of love and heartfelt condolences and asks that you continue to respect their privacy during this difficult time.
End of tweet
— James Caan (@James_Caan) July 7, 2022
Caan was 82 years old and still one of the hardest working men in Hollywood.
A True Legend
Everyone knows about Caan’s role in “The Godfather.”
It is a rather ironic role in that the producers of the movie did not want Caan for the role, yet it was the only role for which Caan received an Academy Award nomination.
Me… I remember him for other movies and TV shows where I thought he was far better.
Caan’s first acting credit was in 1961, notching 137 acting credits in total at the time of his death (with one project in post-production and two more that had been announced).
My all-time favorite of Caan’s is “Rollerball,” which was made in 1975. If you have seen the remake, do yourself a favor and watch the original because there is no comparison.
Behind that, “The Gambler,” shot in 1974, with a remake done by Mark Wahlberg. Again, the remake does not touch Caan’s version.
“Brian’s Song,” “1941,” “A Bridge Too Far,” and “The Program” were also great movies that I have watched time and again.
If you want to see Caan try out his pipes, give “For the Boys” a watch, where he co-starred with Bette Middler.
When it comes to TV shows, “Las Vegas” was an epic show, with Caan playing a no-nonsense casino boss.
His wheelhouse was always military and cop movies, regardless of which side of the law he was on, and playing the eternal wise-ass tough guy.
Caan could also do comedy, at least on occasion, knocking it out of the park in “Elf,” where he co-starred with Will Farrell.
You will be missed, Mr. Caan… rest in peace.
