Frank Pesce, a character actor who appeared in both “Beverly Hills Cop” films, as well as “Top Gun,” “Midnight Run,” and “Miami Vice,” has passed away at the age of 75.
Tammy Scher, the actor’s fiancée, told Deadline that Frank died in Burbank on February 6, 2022, from dementia-related issues.
Pesce was born in New York City in 1946, and among his pals were Sylvester Stallone, Tony Danza, and Robert Forster.
Pesce first appeared on film in 1976 as a guest star on “Police Story,” where he was known for his huge smile and colorful demeanor.
He also appeared on shows including “Kojak,” “Knight Rider,” “Blue Thunder,” “The Greatest American Hero,” “Matlock,” “Who’s the Boss?” and “The Master” throughout his career.
” Pesce landed small roles in Stallone films “Rocky” and “Paradise Alley,” as well as Don Simpson and Jerry Bruckheimer’s smash hits “Flashdance” and “Top Gun.” In a statement to Variety, Pesce’s girlfriend Tammy Scher said, “I met Frank at a very low point in my life. He always said he saved me and he was right.
I’d never met anyone like him. Frank was a force larger than life or any fictional character, always entertaining, intriguing and fascinating.
Unafraid to approach anyone and immediately make an acquaintance. Celebrities flocked to be near him as he had an encyclopedia of knowledge about music and movies.
” Pesce is survived by his brother, Vito Pesce, sister-in-law Catherine Pesce and nieces Vanessa and Danielle Pesce. He will be buried on Feb. 18 at Saint Raymond’s Cemetery in the Bronx, according to Deadline.
