JOE MANTEGNA

Name, Age & Place of Birth

Joseph Anthony Mantegna was born on November 13, 1947, in Chicago, Illinois, USA. As of 2025, he is 77 years old. He was raised in an Italian-American family—his mother, Mary Ann, worked as a typist, and his father, Joseph Henry Mantegna, sold insurance.

Early Life & Stage Career

Joe’s acting roots trace back to the theater. He studied at the Goodman School of Drama (now at DePaul University) and launched his professional career on stage. His breakout moment came in 1984 when he won a Tony Award for his performance in David Mamet’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play Glengarry Glen Ross. Mantegna’s collaboration with Mamet continued in multiple acclaimed films and stage productions, solidifying his reputation as a compelling dramatic actor.

Television Stardom – “Criminal Minds”

Although Joe had been active in film and TV since the 1980s, he became a household name in 2007 when he joined the hit CBS series Criminal Minds as Special Agent David Rossi. His portrayal of Rossi—a seasoned FBI profiler with depth and conviction—won over millions of fans. He remained a main cast member for more than 15 seasons, making him one of the most recognizable figures in American crime drama television.

Film Career & Notable Roles

Joe Mantegna’s filmography is extensive. He portrayed mobster Joey Zasa in The Godfather Part III (1990), starred in Searching for Bobby Fischer (1993), and delivered comedic performances in Airheads (1994) and Baby's Day Out (1994). His frequent work with David Mamet in films such as House of Games, Things Change, and Homicide showcased his ability to shift seamlessly between gritty drama and dry humor.

Voice Work & Hosting

Joe has voiced the character of Fat Tony, the charismatic Springfield mob boss in The Simpsons, since 1991—bringing charm and menace to the long-running animated series. He also served as the host of the National Memorial Day Concert on PBS for over a decade, showing strong support for American veterans and military families.

Personal Life & Legacy

Joe Mantegna has been married to Arlene Vrhel since 1975, and they have two daughters—one of whom, Gia Mantegna, is also an actress. His younger daughter was diagnosed with autism, and Joe has since been an advocate for autism awareness. In 2011, he received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and he was later honored with the Ellis Island Medal of Honor for his contributions to arts and society.

Joe Mantegna’s legacy spans Broadway, Hollywood, television, and voice acting. He is admired not only for his performances but also for his integrity, family values, and dedication to service and inclusion. A true veteran of the screen and stage, Joe continues to inspire generations of actors and fans alike.