In all the long his story of movie tough guys, nobody could get angry quite like Dennis Farina. His delivery of colourfully written lines won him legions of fans even when he was playing supporting roles. He died yesterday at the age of 69.
Farina was best known in thee film world for his work in Midnight Run, Get Shorty and Saving Private Ryan, but had recently acquired new fans with his role in popular TV series Law And Order. He had previous played cops in Crime Story and Miami Vice.
Born to a working class Chicago family, Farina served as a real life police officer for 18 years. He went on to work his way up through the theatre, acquiring a reputation for strong performances before he broke through into the film world. Both police officers and acting colleagues were quick to pay tribute to him, praising his commitment, character and kindness.
Farina is believed to have died as a result of a blood clot that formed in his lung. He is survived by his partner Marianne, their three children and six grandchildren.
