John Capodice, the beloved character actor best known for his roles alongside Jim Carrey and on soap operas, has passed away at the age of 83. His death was confirmed on December 30, 2024, by the Pizzi Funeral Home.
The actor, whose career spanned several decades, is renowned for his memorable performances as the abrasive Aguado in Ace Ventura: Pet Detective and as Carmine Cerullo on General Hospital. His passing marks the end of an era for many fans who grew up watching him on screen.
“John was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather and will be missed by all who had the pleasure to meet him,” the Pizzi Funeral Home stated.
Born on Christmas Day, 1941, Capodice began his acting career after serving two years with the US Army during the Vietnam War. He first broke onto the scene with a role on the daytime drama Ryan's Hope in 1978 and quickly became recognized as a talented character actor.
Capodice gained widespread attention with his role as Aguado, playing opposite Jim Carrey in the 1994 comedy Ace Ventura. Despite some harsh critiques of the film, it became a box office success, grossing over $107 million worldwide and solidifying Carrey's career. The moustachioed detective Aguado frequently found himself at the mercy of Ace's antics, much to audience delight.
His contributions to General Hospital are equally significant, where he portrayed Carmine Cerullo from 1994 to 1996, leaving behind many fans who cherished his work on the long-running show.
Throughout his almost 50-year career, Capodice appeared in over 150 films and television series, showcasing his talent across various acting mediums. He had guest spots on popular shows like Seinfeld, Will & Grace, and CSI: Crime Scene Investigation. His extensive television credits established him as one of Hollywood's reliable character actors.
Outside of sitcoms and dramas, Capodice also made his mark in film, with roles in notable movies such as Wall Street, Independence Day, and Speed. His versatility allowed him to play everything from sinister mobsters to relatable everyday characters.
Just last year, he lent his voice to the character of a cab driver in the animated hit Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem, showcasing his enduring popularity even as he aged.
Friends and colleagues have begun to share tributes online, with one fan reminiscing, “Rest in peace, John Capodice. General Hospital fans will always hold dear the character of Carmine Cerullo.”
Capodice is survived by his wife, Jane, and their two daughters, Tessa De Pierro and Cassandra Hansen. Fans and family alike are left heartbroken by the news of his passing. His talent, warmth, and humor will be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him or watching him on screen.
Reflecting on his life, Capodice once stated, “One doesn’t choose acting; it chooses you.” This sentiment encapsulates his commitment and passion for the craft he dedicated his life to.
Though the reason for his passing remains undisclosed, John Capodice leaves behind a legacy filled with memorable characters and heartfelt performances. His impact on both film and television will be felt for generations to come.