‘Godfather’ and ‘Elf’ actor James Caan dies at 82, family announces with ‘great sadness’
James Caan, an iconic actor whose career spanned more than 50 years, has died, his family announced. He was 82.
“It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Jimmy on the evening of July 6,” the family said on his personal Twitter account. “The family appreciates the outpouring of love and heartfelt condolences and asks that you continue to respect their privacy during this difficult time.”
Caan starred in “The Godfather” in 1972 as Santino “Sonny” Corleone, a role that earned him an Academy Award nomination. He’s also known for his role in Stephen King’s “Misery” in 1990, as well as playing Will Ferrell’s estranged father in the 2003 Christmas comedy “Elf.”
Caan also starred alongside Billy Dee Williams in the made-for-TV 1971 tear-jerker “Brian’s Song,” which was based on a true story.
A cause of death was not announced.
Caan is the father of actor Scott Caan, known for his roles in “Hawaii Five-0” and the “Ocean’s” film trilogy. The elder Caan has four additional adult children from separate marriages — James Arthur Caan, Jacob Caan, Alexander Caan and Tara Caan.
Rob Reiner, who directed “Misery,” commented on the family’s post and said he was “so sorry to hear the news.”
“I loved working with him,” said Reiner.
Other condolences also poured in Thursday after his death was announced.
“Rest in Peace James Caan,” Hollywood director James Gunn said. “There are so many movies of his I love, ‘The Godfather’ films of course being at the very top.”
“Ugh. I just saw him speak at the ‘Godfather 50’ with Francis and Talia and he was as spirited and fiery as ever,” said actor Alex Winter. “What a giant.”
RIP James Caan. One of my all time favorite actors pic.twitter.com/HwH0F3I6R4
— Brian Bonner (@Indy92) July 7, 2022
"You're marking time is what you are. You're backing off. You're hiding out. You're waiting for a bus that you hope never comes because you don't wanna get on it anyway because you don't wanna go anywhere." Rest in peace, James Caan. pic.twitter.com/j2J0FD7kWG
— Bilge Ebiri (@BilgeEbiri) July 7, 2022
R.I.P. to the truly GREAT James Caan. Here was a man who could sit in a chair and mutter his line and still demand your entire attention and wonder how he made it look so damn easy.
End of tweet. pic.twitter.com/uJmfFkCf9Z— Joe Friday (@Head_Haunter_) July 7, 2022
This is a breaking news story and will be updated.
