Playbill

Richard Bright (Performer) Obituary
Richard Bright, a character actor who appeared in all three "Godfather" films, and as the First Murderer in Al Pacino's Richard III on Broadway, died Feb. 18, 2006, after being struck by a bus in Manhattan. He was 68, according to The New York Times, and lived in Manhattan.

Mostly known as a film actor, he also acted on the stage. His Off-Broadway credits included Short Eyes and The Beard.

Mr. Bright's movie and TV work includes "The Sopranos," "Odds Against Tomorrow," "The Panic in Needle Park" with Al Pacino, Sam Peckinpah's "Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid," "Marathon Man," Sergio Leone's "Once Upon a Time in America," "Red Heat," "Beautiful Girls," "Brighton Beach Memoirs," "The Ref," "Looking for Mr. Goodbar" and "The Getaway."

In the series of "Godfather" movies, Mr. Bright played Al Neri, a henchman to Michael Corleone. He whacked Michael's brother, Fredo, in "The Godfather: Part II."

Friends and loved ones will celebrate his life 2 PM Feb. 25 at the Chas. Peter Nagel Funeral Home, 352 E. 87th Street near First Avenue. For more information, contact (212) 420-1063.

Mr. Bright is survived by his wife, actress Rutanya Alda; son Jeremy Bright, of Manhattan; and brother, Charles, of Rowland, PA.

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