What was Michael DeLano’s debut film? Career highlights explored as Ocean's Eleven actor dies at 84

Michael DeLano dies at 84 (Image via X/@MikeBarnes4)
Michael DeLano dies at 84 (Image via X/@MikeBarnes4)

Michael DeLano made his film debut in 1971 with the western Catlow. The film featured Yul Brynner and Leonard Nimoy. This appearance marked the transition from his early years in music, when he played under the name Key Larson, to acting.

Following Catlow, DeLano began playing steady roles in film and TV. The work expanded in the 1970s when he was featured in various popular programs. He became a household name on television and eventually in movies in the 1980s and 1990s.

DeLano passed away at age 84. Throughout his long career, his work was evident in many genres, including westerns, action films, and well-known TV dramas. He started with Catlow, which led to other jobs over the following 40 years.


Michael DeLano's early career and television work

Michael DeLano first gained attention on television during the 1970s. People who watched Rhoda will never forget him as Johnny Venture. He featured in 11 episodes as a lounge singer and love interest. This was the role that allowed him to develop his TV presence in the decade.

He also played Sonny Caputo in Firehouse, which aired in 1974. The program was a series about a group of firefighters and provided DeLano with a stable job at the beginning of his career. His appearance in the series contributes to his exposure on network TV.

It was during this time that DeLano appeared on many other shows. He has been a guest and recurring star in Supertrain, Kojak, Charlie's Angels, The Rockford Files, Starsky and Hutch, Wonder Woman, and Magnum, P.I.

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Film roles and later recognition

Along with television, Michael DeLano continued to build his film work. His early movies included The New Centurions (1972). He later appeared in 9 to 5 in 1980 and the action film Commando in 1985. These roles showed he could work in both comedy and action films.

During the 1990s, he appeared in several action and comedy projects. DeLano often played supporting roles that added to the story. His steady work kept him active in Hollywood through the decade.

His most recognized film role came later. Many fans know him as Walsh, the Las Vegas casino manager in Ocean’s Eleven (2001) and Ocean’s Twelve (2004). He played the character who worked under Andy Garcia’s casino owner. These films brought him new attention from younger viewers.

Read More: Who is Michael DeLano’s wife? What we know about Rhoda star's family and personal life following his death at 84

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Edited by Yesha Srivastava