Dominic Chianese Quotes

Powerful Dominic Chianese for Daily Growth

About Dominic Chianese

Dominic Chianese, a versatile actor with Italian-American roots, was born on July 20, 1931, in The Bronx, New York City. Raised in a close-knit family, his love for acting emerged early, inspired by his father's passion for storytelling and his mother's love for music. Chianese began his professional career on Broadway in the 1950s, appearing in productions like "The Rose Tattoo" and "A Streetcar Named Desire." He later moved to Off-Broadway, where he co-founded the Circle Repertory Company with Marshall W. Mason. This association marked a significant turning point, as it provided him opportunities to direct and act in various productions, including the critically acclaimed "The Gathering" and "A Lie of the Mind." Chianese's television debut came in 1974 with an episode of "Kojak," but his breakthrough role was as Uncle Junior in the HBO series "The Sopranos" (1999-2007). His portrayal of a ruthless, complex character earned him widespread acclaim and multiple Emmy nominations. In addition to his work on screen, Chianese has continued to thrive in theatre, with notable performances in "A View from the Bridge" and "The Godfather of Broadway." He also ventured into music, releasing an album titled "Dominic Chianese Sings Sinatra" in 2016. Throughout his illustrious career, Dominic Chianese has demonstrated a remarkable ability to breathe life into complex characters, leaving indelible marks on audiences with his powerful performances. His contributions to the world of acting remain significant, and he continues to inspire new generations of artists.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"I think it's important for us as artists and human beings to give back."

This quote emphasizes that artists, in addition to their creative roles, have a responsibility towards society. They are not just creators; they should also engage in philanthropy or acts of kindness. By giving back, they can contribute positively to the community and make a difference in people's lives. In essence, Dominic Chianese underscores the importance of using one's talents for both artistic expression and social betterment.


"Being a part of a show like The Sopranos is a once in a lifetime opportunity."

This quote signifies that being cast in "The Sopranos," a critically acclaimed and culturally impactful television series, is a unique and extraordinary experience for an actor. It suggests that such a role comes with a rare level of recognition and prestige, often not repeated throughout an artist's career. It highlights the significance of being part of a production that resonates deeply with audiences and leaves a lasting imprint on popular culture.


"As an actor, you have to be flexible, because the director may change something that affects your performance."

This quote emphasizes the adaptability required in acting. It suggests that actors must be ready to adjust their performances based on a director's vision or changes in the production. This flexibility allows for collaboration, ensuring the best possible end result by blending individual interpretations with the collective creative vision of the team.


"I've always believed that acting is about truth."

Dominic Chianese, in this quote, emphasizes the importance of authenticity and honesty in the art of acting. He suggests that the essence of acting lies in portraying characters with an unwavering commitment to truth, rather than merely imitating or performing for the sake of entertainment. This perspective underscores the idea that successful acting stems from a deep understanding of the human condition and the ability to bring those complexities to life on stage or screen.


"There are no small parts, only small actors." (This quote is often attributed to Dominic Chianese, though it was originally said by Jonathan Winters.)

This quote emphasizes that the significance of a role in a performance or production does not depend on its size or prominence in the script, but rather on the actor's ability to make it impactful. A great actor can breathe life into even the smallest roles, making them memorable and significant. It encourages actors to approach every part they play with dedication and enthusiasm, regardless of its size or visibility, as each opportunity offers a chance to grow and improve their craft.


I've always wanted to play Don Quixote in some way. It's a great role. I think the idealism of the man shows that hope that we have in the human breast to achieve something.

- Dominic Chianese

Play, Some, Always, Quixote

My father was an American who could cuss in Italian and make an aria out of it. It was wonderful to watch. But then again, he was a Gemini. I believe in that stuff.

- Dominic Chianese

Father, Could, Aria, Gemini

The radio was my big influence. Comedy came from the instinctual feel I had for language.

- Dominic Chianese

Comedy, Big, Feel, Big Influence

I went to Brooklyn College and met this beautiful Jewish girl named Merle, with dark hair, exotic looking and brilliant. So we got married and had three children.

- Dominic Chianese

College, Brilliant, Named, Exotic

Uncle Junior is a criminal, which makes him a villain, so it makes people want to watch him. My whole life as an actor has been preparing for something like this.

- Dominic Chianese

Villain, Been, Which, Criminal

They would wake me up when I was sleeping, and say sing a song for our friends. I had a sweet voice, I had a nice little tenor voice. God knows what I sang, but my whole family would admire me.

- Dominic Chianese

Voice, Admire, Had, Tenor

The anger that Uncle Junior has comes from my background. My father was the son of an Italian immigrant, and I've seen the fire of the Italian temperament. It can be explosive sometimes in ways that are both funny and tragic.

- Dominic Chianese

Father, Uncle, Explosive, Tragic

For TV I don't think I could have gotten a better part than Uncle Junior because of the intimacy of the character based on David Chase's brilliant writing.

- Dominic Chianese

Think, TV, Based, Junior

I don't like the way Uncle Junior dresses. He loves it.

- Dominic Chianese

Uncle, Like, Loves, Junior

I went on tour in the play H.M.S. Pinafore.

- Dominic Chianese

Play, Tour

I tried to become a family man. I got married, but it didn't work out. After 22 months we got an annulment. Then I married an Italian girl, which resulted in an immediate annulment. I had two annulments by the time I was 23.

- Dominic Chianese

Had, Resulted, By The Time, Work Out

I enjoyed my grandparents very much. My mother and father would always allow me to stay with them.

- Dominic Chianese

Always, Very, Allow, Enjoyed

I had to audition for the part of Jnior, and I wanted the role terribly because I knew it was a great character. This guy is a wonderful, funny, mean old guy.

- Dominic Chianese

Old, Role, Part, Audition

When I started really singing I was 17, 18 years old. I used to go around trying to be a singer in the Bronx. My knees would shake but I learned by doing.

- Dominic Chianese

Singing, Doing, Shake, Knees

If you're searching for quotes on a different topic, feel free to browse our Topics page or explore a diverse collection of quotes from various Authors to find inspiration.