John Capodice, Actor Known for Roles in Seinfeld and Ace Ventura, Dies at 83
Actor John Capodice, widely recognized for his roles in the Jim Carrey film Ace Ventura: Pet Detective and the iconic TV series Seinfeld, has passed away at the age of 83.
The news was first reported by the New York Post and confirmed by an obituary from New Jersey’s Pizzi Funeral Home. The tribute described Capodice as a “devoted husband, father, and grandfather” who will be “missed by all who had the pleasure to meet him.” The cause of death has not been disclosed.
Born on Christmas Day in 1941 in Blauvelt, New York, Capodice began his acting career in the 1970s with a role in the ABC soap opera Ryan’s Hope. His talent for portraying reliable, memorable characters earned him repeat appearances on popular shows such as Spenser: For Hire, Kate & Allie, Murder, She Wrote, Murphy Brown, Knots Landing, Hunter, and Law & Order.
Before pursuing acting, Capodice served in the U.S. Army from 1964 to 1966, including at least one tour in Korea.
Capodice’s film career included his standout performance as Sergeant Aguado, a skeptical police officer, in the 1994 comedy Ace Ventura: Pet Detective, a box office hit during the height of Jim Carrey’s career. In Seinfeld, he portrayed a laundromat owner in the show’s second season, in a storyline where Kramer tries to seek justice after Jerry accuses the owner of stealing money.
Capodice’s legacy as a versatile character actor has left an indelible mark on television and film, and he will be remembered fondly by fans and colleagues alike.
John Capodice Remembered for Roles in General Hospital, Boy Meets World, and More
In the mid-1990s, John Capodice made notable appearances on the drama General Hospital, portraying Carmine Cerullo from 1994 to 1996. His extensive television credits also include roles on popular shows such as Boy Meets World, Ellen, CSI, Kate & Allie, Mad About You, Diagnosis Murder, Blossom, Moonlighting, NYPD Blue, Angel, Six Feet Under, Wizards of Waverly Place, and Monk.
Capodice’s film portfolio featured roles in The Doors, Honeymoon in Vegas, and the 1996 blockbuster Independence Day.
Fans paid tribute to Capodice on social media, sharing memories of the beloved actor. One fan wrote on X, “Rest in Peace, John Capodice. @GeneralHospital fans will remember him as Lois’ dad, Carmine Cerullo, but I’ll remember the years when he lived near me, doted on his grandchildren, and loved to eat out at local restaurants.” Another fan simply added, “He’s just a great guy! RIP,” while a third wrote, “RIP John Capodice.”
Capodice’s enduring legacy as a versatile actor and a cherished member of his community continues to resonate with fans and colleagues alike.
John Capodice Reflects on His Career and Legacy in Final Interview
In an interview with Networking Magazine conducted shortly before his passing, John Capodice spoke about the persistence and passion that fueled his career in a competitive industry.
“One doesn’t choose acting; it chooses you,” Capodice said. “I wish I could be more specific, but after half a century of living this life, I’m still pursuing it. All my friends thought I was nuts, but it didn’t stop me. On the contrary, my mother encouraged me the most, despite not knowing much about the acting profession.”
He offered words of wisdom for aspiring actors: “Never ever accept no. Remember, it’s not about rejection. The casting people are just going a different way, and you’ll get the next one.”
Family and Legacy
Capodice is survived by his wife, Jane, his daughters, Tessa De Pierro and Cassandra Hansen, and his grandchildren, David, Jake, Frankie, and Giuliana. He is also survived by his sisters, Kathy and Patti.
In lieu of flowers, the Capodice family has requested that fans honor his memory by making donations to Rockland Homes for Heroes, a charity supporting veterans.
Capodice’s enduring determination and heartfelt advice leave a legacy that will inspire generations of actors and fans alike.