Are Any of the Gangsters Portrayed in Goodfellas Still Alive?

Based on the latest data available as of 2023, none of the major gangsters portrayed in Goodfellas are still alive. However, some cameos and minor roles played by figures still active in real life can add a unique layer of authenticity to the film. This article delves into the real-life status of the characters from Goodfellas, focusing on Mikey Franzese, Jimmy Burke, and Henry Hill.

Jimmy Burke and Jimmy Conway

James Burke, the real-life figure behind Jimmy Conway, is portrayed in the film by Robert De Niro. Jimmy Burke, born Salvatore "Jimmy" Burke, was a notorious hoodlum and was indeed sent to jail. Unfortunately, he passed away in 1996, marking the end of one of the most significant figures in the history of New York organized crime.

Tommy DeSimone and Joe Pesci

Tommy DeSimone, portrayed by Joe Pesci, was a member of the Luchese family and was killed in 1979. This tragic event led to his portrayal in the film and further cemented his place in the annals of New York crime history. Despite the widespread recognition of his character, Tommie DeSimone passed away prematurely.

Henry Hill and Ray Liotta

Henry Hill, the main character in the film, was played by Ray Liotta. Henry Hill passed away in 2012, just a few years after the release of the Goodfellas documentary, where he narrated the story of his life. The film provided a vivid portrayal of his rise and fall in organized crime.

James Burke: An Indelible Influence

Jimmy Burke, the real figure behind Jimmy Conway, played by Robert De Niro, remains an influential symbol in the world of organized crime. His life and actions heavily influenced the narrative and character development in Goodfellas. Although he passed away in 1996, the impact of his involvement in the film continues to resonate.

Mikey Franzese: A Cameo with an Impact

One significant cameo in Goodfellas is Mikey Franzese. The film only briefly mentions him by name during a steady-cam walkthrough scene in the Bamboo Lounge. Mikey Franzese is an actual former mafioso who was never accused of any crimes in the movie, making him a real-life figure still alive today.

Bio of Mikey Franzese

Michael Franzese, born in 1947, served as a soldier in the Colombo Family and later rose to the rank of capo. He knew Henry Hill, who was a member of the Jimmy Burke crew during the 1970s. Franzese's name was used in the film for a scene in the prison kitchen, and he was not publicly accused of any crimes, making him a unique figure in the story.

Despite his short appearance in the film and literal mention in a single scene, Mikey Franzese's story is far more complex. During the mid-1980s, Franzese became a whiz-kid in a hugely profitable gasoline bootlegging scheme. By the late 1980s, he controlled approximately 25% of all gasoline sales in the New York metropolitan area, making around $100,000 a week from gang-related gasoline bootlegging and money laundering alone.

Unfortunately, Mikey Franzese's criminal activities caught up with him. He was arrested in the mid-1980s and sentenced to prison for tax evasion and racketeering. After a brief stint in prison, he violated parole again and spent several years back in custody. However, Franzese eventually chose to go straight voluntarily, which has contributed to his survival to this day.

Life After Prison

After serving his time and going straight, Michael Franzese focused on a more productive path. He became a motivational speaker and even created a YouTube channel where he shares stories about his experiences in the mafia and discusses mafia films with a unique perspective. His channel is highly informative and engaging, making him a valuable resource for those interested in the history of organized crime in New York.

Conclusion

While the majority of the gangsters portrayed in Goodfellas are no longer with us, there are still a few real-life figures connected to the film who continue to make an impact. Mikey Franzese, in particular, stands out as a unique and fascinating character from the film who has managed to live a productive life after his incarceration.