Paul Sorvino

Father of actress Mira Sorvino , Amanda Sorvino and Michael Sorvino.

Has severe asthma. Started the Sorvino Asthma Foundation

Is an enthusiastic opera singer, painter, sculptor and cook.

Italian-American, of Neapolitan descent (Naples, Italy).

His budding career was threatened when asthma compromised his ability to talk and sing. But the breathing exercises he learned thirty years ago have allowed him to breathe normally ever since.

Was named as "King of Brooklyn" at the "Welcome Back to Brooklyn" festival in 1993.

Speaks fluent Italian.

In July 2004, he was awarded the "Premio per gli Italiani nel Mondo" at a ceremony in Rome. The prize is distributed by the Marzio Tremaglia Foundation and the Italian government to Italian emigrants and their descendants who have distinguished themselves abroad. At the ceremony, he performed the Neapolitan song "Torna a Surriento" with tenor Andrea Bocelli.

Was nominated for Broadways 1973 Tony Award as Best Actor for Jason Miller s "That Championship Season."

Shares birthday with Ron Perlman.

Ranked #10 on Tropopkins Top 25 Most Intriguing People [Issue #100]

Founded the Dogfellas Dog Adoption organization in February of 2002 with his family. It is based in Manhattan and Pennsylvania.

Has appeared in movies with former "Law & Order" castmates on two occasions: with Steven Hill in The Firm and with Chris Noth in Mr 3000 .

Is a graduate of The American Musical and Dramatic Academy.

Father-in-law of Christopher Backus.

In 1993, he founded the Paul Sorvino Asthma Foundation, with the goal of building asthma centers for children and adults across the United States.

Uncle of Bill Sorvino.

Founder of Paul Sorvino Foods an International Food Company.

Recovering with only minor bruises, after being hit by a car in Manhattan on October 7, 2011, while hailing a cab.

(March 2006) Currently resides in Gilbert, Pennsylvania.

As of 2016. has appeared in three films that were nominated for the Best Picture Oscar: A Touch of Class , Reds and Goodfellas .