Deadline is reporting today that character actor Val Bisoglio, who is best known for his role as John Travolta’s father in Saturday Night Fever and played Uncle June’s former capo, Murphy “Murf” Lupo, for three episodes in The Sopranos, has passed away. Bisolgio died of Lewy body dementia back on October 18, according to his wife Bonnie Bisoglio. He was 95 years of age when he passed away in his home near San Olivos, California.
Val Bisoglio’s Life
Born in New York City, New York on May 7, 1926, Italo Valentino Bisoglio got his start in the 1964 drama mystery television show, The Edge of Night, and would go on to have small roles in television shows through the rest of the 1960s until he got his first recurring role on The Doctors in 1969. From there, his career would take off as he would garner roles in television shows such as The Mary Tyler Moore Show, The Partridge Family, All in the Family; and in films like Serpico and St. Ives.
Then in 1977, Bisoglio would get the role of John Travolta’s father, Frank Sr., in Saturday Night Fever. Bisoglio would get another recurring role in the 1979 comedy, Working Stiffs, which stars Jim Belushi and Michael Keaton. The show ran for one season with Bisoglio being in all 8 episodes as Al Steckler. From there he would go on to be in other television shows like MAS*H, Quincy M.E., Miami Vice, and The Sopranos in 2002.
Murf Lupo
Bisolgio was in three episodes of The Sopranos, Murf was brought in by Uncle June to replace Philly Parisi after Parisi was murdered. Although Murf would later be replaced by fan-favorite Bobby Bacala, who was played by Steve R. Schirripa. Uncle June never liked Murf, always complaining about his driving and how he moved like a slug. Despite that, it seems Bisoglio thoroughly enjoyed his time on The Sopranos.
Val Bisoglio is survived by his wife, Bonnie, his sons Joseph Bisoglio and Scott Chapman.
