James Caan’s Most Memorable Roles Through the Years: From ‘The Godfather’ to ‘Get Smart’

usmagazine.com:

Hollywood history. James Caan made a name for himself in both dramatic and comedic roles before his death at age 82.The actor got his start in off-Broadway plays before breaking into the film industry in the mid-1960s.

After collaborating with famed director Francis Ford Coppola on 1969’s The Rain People, Caan appeared opposite Billy Dee Williams in the 1971 TV movie Brian’s Song.However, the late star is most widely recognized for his work in 1972’s The Godfather.

While he was initially cast as Michael Corleone, that role ultimately went to Al Pacino, with Caan instead portraying Michael’s brother Sonny.“I knew Francis so well and … I came in to New York and there must have been 400, 500 guys lining the walls of this big studio on 59th and 7th with every stupid accent you ever heard in your life,” the Funny Lady star recalled of the audition process during a March 2022 radio interview. “I mean, what are they doing here?”Over the years, Caan found himself starring in several crime movies, but he never wanted to be pigeon-holed. “I fought always never to be the same person,” he told CBS Sunday Morning in 2021. “I mean, the fun of being an actor is being somebody else for three months, you know?”The Sicilian Vampire star’s family announced his death in June 2022. “It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Jimmy on the evening of July 6,” a statement shared via Twitter read. “The family appreciates the outpouring of love and heartfelt condolences and asks that you continue to respect their privacy during this difficult time.”At the time, an official cause of death was not revealed.Before he passed away, Caan still had a steady career. “I can’t take it easy,” he told CBS Sunday Morning. “I enjoy working.