Al Martino, singer who played role of Sinatra character in ‘Godfather’

Updated: October 15, 2009, 6:36 am /
Published: October 15, 2009, 12:30 am

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Oct. 7, 1927—Oct. 13, 2009

SPRINGFIELD, Pa. (AP)— Singer Al Martino, who played the Frank Sinatra-type role of Johnny Fontane in “The Godfather,” died Tuesday in his childhood home. He was 82.

A publicist confirmed Martino’s death in the Philadelphia suburb of Springfield, in Delaware County, but didn’t cite a cause.

Starting in 1952, Martino was known for hit songs including “Here in My Heart,” “Spanish Eyes,” “Can’t Help Falling in Love” and “Volare.”

Besides acting in “The Godfather,” Martino sang “I Have but One Heart (O Marenariello)” in the 1972 film. His Fontane character is a singer and occasional actor and is the godson of Marlon Brando’s Mafia boss character, Don Vito Corleone.

Martino was born in South Philadelphia as Alfred Cini and was a longtime resident of Beverly Hills, Calif.

Philadelphia radio and television personality Jerry Blavat dined with Martino and his wife Monday night. Blavat told the Philadelphia Daily News that Martino appeared to be in good shape and that he was shocked when he learned of the singer’s death.

“He was the last of the show business legends,” said Blavat, who has played Martino’s songs on the radio for years. “There’s nobody else. The last of the performers. A magnificent voice.”