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Actor

1959-03-27 · New York City, New York, USA · Male

28 series in the catalog

Brian Tarantina (March 27, 1959 – November 2, 2019) was an American stage, screen, and television character actor. He was known for his roles on such shows as One Life to Live, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and Gilmore Girls.

Early life

Tarantina was born in New York City on March 27, 1959, to father Frank William Tarantina and an unknown mother. He attended what is now the Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts, where he then began to pursue an acting career.

Death

Shortly after midnight on November 2, 2019, Tarantina was found unresponsive at his home in Hell's Kitchen, Manhattan, and was subsequently pronounced dead at the age of 60. At the time of his death, his publicist attributed the cause to "complications from a severe health crisis he experienced a few months [prior]." However, New York City Chief Medical Examiner report released in December 2019, stated that he died from an accidental overdose of fentanyl, heroin, cocaine and diazepam.

Off-Broadway

Innocent Thoughts, Harmless Intentions (March 6, 1980 – March 30, 1980) - "Enzio 'Spats' Spadanti"

Angels Fall (October 17, 1982 – November 28, 1982) – "Salvatore (Zappy) Zappala"

Young Playwrights Festival (April 13, 1983 – May 1, 1983) – "Frank" (Third Street) / "TV Host" (The Birthday Present)

Balm in Gilead (May 31, 1984 – January 6, 1985) - "David"

V & V Only (May 25, 1988 – July 3, 1988) – "Donny"

Broadway

Angels Fall (January 22, 1983 – March 13, 1983) – "Salvatore (Zappy) Zappala"

Biloxi Blues (March 28, 1985 – June 28, 1986) – "Roy Selridge"

The Boys of Winter (December 1, 1985 – December 8, 1985) – "Prick"

Sacrilege (November 2, 1995 – November 19, 1995) – "Crackerjack"

Brian Tarantina at the Internet Broadway Database

Brian Tarantina at the Internet Off-Broadway Database (archived)