The Hollywood Godfather Podcast
Welcome to The Hollywood Godfather Podcast. Hosted by The Godfather star Gianni Russo and co-host Jeanie Raymond, this captivating podcast dives deep into Russo’s incredible life, from his history with the mob to his friendships with Hollywood legends, Vatican insiders, U.S. presidents, and iconic figures from around the world. Every Wednesday, Gianni and Jeanie bring listeners behind the scenes of some of the most compelling stories in entertainment and organized crime, often joined by special celebrity guests. Tune in for firsthand accounts of untold stories, candid conversations, and a journey through a life that blends crime, fame, and po...
Episodes
S18 EP335 - The Mailbag: Secrets of Hollywood's Past
In this episode of the Hollywood Godfather, hosts Gianni and Jeanie dives into their favorite segment, the mailbag, where they answer listener questions about Frank Costello's mob involvement, Gianni’s interactions with various Hollywood le…
S18 E334 - A Night with Engelbert & The Power of Resilience
In this episode of the Hollywood Godfather podcast, Gianni and Jeanie discuss Jeanie's recent attendance at an Engelbert Humperdinck concert, highlighting his remarkable performance and interaction with fans. They delve into personal storie…
S18E334: S18 E334 - A Night with Engelbert & The Power of Resilience
In this episode of the Hollywood Godfather podcast, Gianni and Jeanie discuss Jeanie's recent attendance at an Engelbert Humperdinck concert, highlighting his remarkable performance and interaction with fans. They delve into personal storie…
S1E235: Rebroadcast - Inside the Godfather: Gianni Russo’s Untold Stories from The Middle Ground
On today’s episode of Middle Ground Radio, Tom and Russell Letizia sit down with Gianni Russo, the man the world knows as Carlo Rizzi from The Godfather. Russo opens up about life before Hollywood, surviving polio, his unexpected path to la…
S15E285: Rebroadcast - S15 - E285 - Were We Were: Personal Reflections on 9/11
In this episode, we take a moment to reflect on one of the most significant events in modern history – September 11, 2001. Join us as we share personal stories of where we were and what we experienced on that fateful day. From shock and dis…
S18E233: S18|EP333 - Iconic Moments: Reflecting on Hollywood's Golden Age
In this episode of the Hollywood Godfather podcast, Gianni reflects on his personal connection with director Brett Ratner and their experiences working on the movie 'The Family Man.' He recalls meeting Ratner as a child, dating his mother, …
S18E232: S18|EP332 - Silver Screen Stories: A Peek into Hollywood and Horse Racing
In this episode of the Hollywood Godfather podcast, hosts Gianni and Jeanie cover a multitude of topics ranging from personal anecdotes to detailed recollections of the movie 'Seabiscuit'. They discuss the film's significance, its setting d…
S18E331: MAILBAG: �Hollywood Memories and Secret Stories
In this episode, Gianni and Jeanie read and respond to listener questions. Topics include memorable meetings with The Beatles, Gianni's ventures in the jewelry and wig businesses, and his experiences with famous personalities like Engelbert…
S18E330: Hollywood Chronicles: Remembering Dan Tana & Any Given Sunday
In this episode, Gianni and Jeanie discuss various Hollywood anecdotes, including the recent passing of Dan Tana, owner of a renowned Beverly Hills restaurant. Gianni shares personal memories of Dan Tana's, recounting illustrious dinners an…
S18E239: Engelbert Humperdinck: Still Going Strong
In this episode of the Hollywood Godfather podcast, hosts Gianni Russo and Jeanie introduce their guest, legendary singer Engelbert Humperdinck. The episode includes discussions about Humperdinck’s extraordinary career, his energetic and po…
S18E238: Al Sapienza: Hollywood's Hardest Working Actor
In this episode of the Hollywood Godfather podcast, hosts Gianni and Jeanie catch up with actor Al Sapienza and discuss various updates. They address a listener's request to feature Paul Anka, who is currently working on a new album and HBO…
S18E237: Mailbag Moments and Hollywood Secrets Revealed
This episode of the Hollywood Godfather Podcast, hosted by Gianni and Jeannie, discusses a variety of topics ranging from upcoming appearances at the Fanboy Expo in Orlando, Florida, to sharing personal stories and upcoming releases. Gianni…
S18E235: Reunion at Fanboy: From Dallas to Hollywood
In this episode of the Hollywood Godfather podcast, hosts Gianni Russo and Jeannie Raymond are joined by actress Sheree Wilson. Sheree discusses her extensive career in Hollywood, spanning roles in 'Dallas' and 'Walker, Texas Ranger.' They …
S18E235: Gianni Russo's Hidden Tracks: A Night with Sinatra’s Orchestra
In the latest episode, Gianni shares exclusive, unreleased tracks from his album ‘Reflections 2', featuring Frank Sinatra's full orchestra and saxophonist Jimmy Mulligan. Gianni highlights the unique opportunity for listeners to purchase an…
S18E324: Star-Struck Stories: From Sinatra to the Godfather
Gianni and Jeannie discusses a variety of topics including the heat of July, upcoming events where fans can interact with Gianni such as Resorts World Catskills and Fanboy Expo in Knoxville, and numerous anecdotes about Hollywood legends. …
S18E323: Hollywood Stories: The Untold Tales of Gianni Russo
In this Hollywood Godfather podcast episode, hosts Gianni Russo and Jeannie Raymond discuss the show's new segment where they will highlight and expand upon Gianni's extensive film and TV career, featuring viewer-requested movies and shows.…
S18E322: Life Imitates Art-Sometimes Hollywood gets frighteningly close to reality.
In this episode we talk about the intense and unforgettable scenes from Monster's Ball, focusing on P. Diddy's haunting execution. The conversation takes a turn and dives into the crime drama BILLY BATHGATE, starring Dustin Hoffman as Dutch…
S18E321: From Godfather to Mentor: Brando Behind Closed Doors
In this episode, Gianni and Jeannie discuss the show's rising popularity and delve into Gianni's personal and turbulent relationship with the legendary actor Marlon Brando. The conversation covers Brando's reclusive nature, his numerous chi…
S17E320: The Godfather of Doo-Wop: Vito PICONE's Legacy Unplugged
In this episode , Gianni and JEANIE welcome the legendary Vito Picone, a doo-wop singer renowned for his song 'Little Star' with The Elegants. As old friends, Gianni and Vito reminisce about their early years growing up in Staten Island, di…
S17E319: The Mailbag
In this episode of the Hollywood Godfather Podcast, hosts Gianni Russo and Jeanie Raymond discuss listener mailbag requests and upcoming events. They emphasize the importance of audience participation for generating show ideas and invite li…
S17E318: The Colorful Life of Gianni Russo
In this episode of the 'Hollywood Godfather' podcast, Gianni Russo shares his personal journey from overcoming polio as a child to becoming a notable figure, known for his role in 'The Godfather' and his connections in Hollywood. Co-host Je…
S17E317: Gianni Journey, Polio Battle, and Reflections on the Catholic Church
In this episode, Gianni shares personal anecdotes, including his battle with polio and tragicexperiences within the Catholic Church. Gianni discusses his personal connections with past Popes and his thoughts on the new Pope, Leo the 14th, w…
S17E316: Remembering Frank Sinatra: Timeless Memories and Heartfelt Tributes
In this emotionally charged episode of the Hollywood Godfather podcast, Gianni Russo and co-host delve into personal anecdotes and memories of influential figures, particularly focusing on Frank Sinatra. They discuss Sinatra’s immense impac…
S17E315: A Tribute to Elaine Wynn: The Queen of Las Vegas
In this episode of the Hollywood Godfather Podcast, the hosts pay tribute to the late Elaine Wynn, a notable figure in Las Vegas history, who passed away at the age of 82. The discussion covers her significant contributions to the arts, wom…
S17E314: From Broadway Dreams to Political Discussions: A Night with Al Sapienza
In this episode of the Hollywood Godfather Podcast, hosts Gianni Russo and Jeanie Raymond welcome their guest, actor Al Sapienza. They celebrate recording over 320 hours of the podcast and discuss upcoming events and appearances, including …
S17E313: Mailbag Special "Birthday" Edition
In this episode of the 'Hollywood Godfather' podcast, the hosts celebrate the birthday of their special guest, Patricia, who is also the mother of co-host Jeanie. The lively conversation covers various topics, from the challenges Gianni Rus…
S1E2: Episode 02 - Tough Guys
Episode 02 - Tough GuysSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.c…
S1E7: On The Mark Rebroadcast - Episode 7 - Marlon Brando, The Godfather Mob Secrets with actor author Gianni Russo
Marlon Brando, The Godfather Mob Secrets with actor author Gianni RussoSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.…
S17E312: Season 17 - Episode 312 - Alto Knights: Creative Differences & True Life Moments
Gianni shares his perspective on what was accurate and what was dramatized for the big screen. We highlight the amazing performances by Debra Messing and Kathrine Narducci, discussing how both actresses brought their characters to life. Don…
S17E311: Season 17 - Episode 311 - Alto Knights & the Real Mob Bosses: Frank Costello & Vito Genovese
In this episode, we discuss the upcoming film ALTO KNIGHTS and the real history behind the legendary mob bosses it portrays. Frank Costello and Vito Genovese-two of the most powerful figures in organized crime- are both played by Robert De …
Alto Knights & the Real Mob Bosses: Frank Costello & Vito Genovese
In this episode, we discuss the upcoming film ALTO KNIGHTS and the real history behind the legendary mob bosses it portrays. Frank Costello and Vito Genovese-two of the most powerful figures in organized crime- are both played by Robert De …
S17E310: Gianni Russo's Show-Stopping Month: David Burke's Red Horse, Capo's So Boston & ScratchNR
In this episode Gianni and Jeanie dive into Gianni's whirlwind month of performances - from Capo's South Boston to David Burke's Red Horse at Bernard's and Scratch Bar & Grill in New Rochelle. They share behind-the-scenes stories, the incre…
S17E309: Mailbag Edition: Listener's Questions
In this mailbag episode Gianni answers listeners questions about everything from Evel Knievel to surprise pets on the set of The Godfather.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/pr…
S17E308: Season 17 - Episode 308 - ERIC SHAWN on FRANK COSTELLO: THE REAL LIFE GODFATHER
We meet with Fox News anchor and reporter, Eric Shawn. to discuss the series Frank Costello-The Real-Life Godfather. We dive into Costello's powerful influence, his connections to the Mafia and politics, and the lasting legacy of the man th…
S17E307: In the Spotlight with multitalented Al Sapienza: Latest Roles and Revelations
Join Gianni and Jeanie as they welcome the multi-talented talented Al Sapienza to the show! From his Iconic roles in the Sopranos, NCIS, Reacher and The Tracker, Al opens up about his fast-paced lifestyle, unwavering work ethic, and what tr…
S17E306: On the Road with Gianni: Spotlight on Recent Shows & Upcoming Performances
In this exciting episode, Gianni and Jeanie sit down to talk about Gianni's recent shows and the incredible venues he's performed at. From the classic charm of Capo's in South Boston to the elegant atmosphere of David Burke’s Red Horse at …
S17E305: Season 17 - Episode 305 - The Mailbag
Gianni & Jeanie answer our viewer’s and listener’s questions.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands…
S E3: Re-Broadcast - Breaking Bread with Joe Piantedosi 02-02
Joe’s guests this week are Actor, Entertainer and Author “The Hollywood Godfather” Gianni Russo as well as the former Executive Chef of The Hilltop Steakhouse and Author Donny Doward.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and Calif…
S17E303: Season 17 - Episode 303 - Highlights from Gianni’s DEAD Talk interview with David Ferrugio. Mafia Tales, Hollywood Drama & more. Part 1
Gianni discusses his interviews with David Ferrugio, host of the podcast DEAD Talks. He shares stories about Death in the Polio Ward, A life lost at Gianni Russo’s State Street, and how Joe Kennedy’s plans fall apart.See Privacy Policy at h…
S17E302: Season 17 - Episode 302 - Presidential Beginnings: The Inaugurations of JFK and Donald Trump
We explore JFK's 1961 inaugural address that inspired a generation and Donald Trumps second inauguration in 2025 . Join us as we compare and contrast these historic moments and examine their lasting impact on American politics and society.S…