‘Godfather’ actor James Caan has died at age 82

Actor James Caan, best known for his role as Sonny in “The Godfather,” has died at the age of 82, his family tweeted.

“It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Jimmy on the evening of July 6,” the tweet said. “The family appreciates the outpouring of love and heartfelt condolences and asks that you continue to respect their privacy during this difficult time.”

He earned an Academy Award nomination for his work in “The Godfather.” He was also nominated for a Golden Globe for the role.

He also appeared in dozens of other feature films after landing his first major role in the 1965 film “The Glory Guys.” His appearance in the 1971 made-for-TV film “Brian’s Song” exposed him to a larger audience ahead of his role in “The Godfather” — and earned him an Emmy nomination for best actor.

In the 1990s and early 2000s, Caan took roles in hit movies from “Misery” to “Honeymoon in Vegas” and “Elf” that endeared him to a new generation of fans.

His last feature film came a year ago, when he starred opposite Ellen Burstyn in “Queen Bees.”

By Justin Boggs, Scripps National.