Italian-American actor Antonio Sabato Sr has died, aged 77.
The news of his passing was confirmed by his son, Antonio Sabato Jr, 48, who revealed his death was caused by complications after contracting the coronavirus.
Antonio Jr, who also worked as an actor updated fans on social media throughout his father’s battle with the virus before sadly confirming his death.
In a post, he penned: “Ciao Papa,” alongside a family photo before sharing a follow-up tweet, stating that he would love and miss his dad “always and forever”.
Just days before his dad’s passing, Antonio Jr tweeted: “My papa/dad is in intensive care with covid in California, Lord keep him surrounded by angels and pure God’s love and strength within.”
Antonio Sabato Sr has died aged 77
A day later he added: “My papa/dad is fighting for his life and not doing good and we can’t even see him or be next to him, Dear Lord, You are the God of the Impossible! There is nothing You cannot do. I come to You now, desperate for a healing miracle for my papa. Thank you, Jesus.”
Antonio Sr is perhaps best known for his role in the film Grand Prix which saw the cast bag a staggering three Academy Awards.
His death was confirmed by his son Antonio Sabato Jr
He also starred in films such as the 1966 Italian classic, Lo Scandalo.
After finding mainstream success, Antonio went on to star in films such as One Dollar Too Many and War of the Robots.
He later moved with his family to America and bagged a role in the 1997 classic High Voltage.
His last acting role was in 2006, appearing in seven episodes of The Bold and the Beautiful.”
Antonio rose to fame following his role in the 1966 film, Grand Prix (Image: Getty Images)
Antonio is survived by his wife Yvonne, son Antonio Jr and daughter Simone, as well as grandchildren Mina, Jack and Antonio Sabato III.
Since the news of his death, fans have taken to social media to share their condolences.
“Rip Antonio Sabato. The Sicilian actor passed away last night. Huge actor of genre films, he went through the spaghetti western, the Giallo, the poliziesco and even the apocalyptic post! An impressive film for a discreet and charming actor. And then what a moustache,” said one.
A second tweeted: “RIP to the great Antonio Sabàto.”
“Goodbye, António Sabato. Another victim of Covid-19. RIP,” added a third.
Another said: “It is with sadness that we learn of the passing of the Italian actor Antonio Sabàto Sr, who died a few days ago at the age of 77. Rip.”
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
