Michael DeLano, Actor on ‘Rhoda’ and ‘Firehouse,’ Dies at 84

Actor and singer Michael DeLano has died. He was 84 years old. DeLano passed away on October 20 in a Las Vegas hospital.

His death was confirmed by his wife, Jean Delano. She told The Hollywood Reporter the cause was a heart attack. DeLano was a recognizable face on 1970s television.

A Career Spanning Decades and Genres

DeLano’s career included notable roles on popular TV shows. He played firefighter Sonny Caputo on the 1974 ABC drama Firehouse. The series starred James Drury but was canceled after 13 episodes.

He is perhaps best remembered as lounge singer Johnny Venture on Rhoda. The character dated Valerie Harper’s Rhoda Morgenstern in the show’s later seasons. DeLano appeared in 11 episodes of the CBS sitcom between 1976 and 1978.

From Philadelphia Dancer to Hollywood Actor

Born in 1940, DeLano was raised in Philadelphia. He first found fame as a regular dancer on American Bandstand. He later served as a U.S. Army paratrooper before pursuing entertainment.

He initially recorded music under the name Key Larson. His stage surname, DeLano, was inspired by a blinking neon sign on a hotel. After a stage run in Hair in Chicago, he moved to Hollywood.

His film credits include roles in The New Centurions and Commando. In the latter, he played a car salesman confronted by Arnold Schwarzenegger. He also appeared in both Ocean’s Eleven and Ocean’s Twelve.

Thought you’d like to know-

What was Michael DeLano’s most famous role?

He is best known for playing Johnny Venture on the sitcom *Rhoda*. The character was a lounge singer who dated the title character. He appeared on the show for multiple seasons.

Did Michael DeLano serve in the military?

Yes, DeLano served as a paratrooper in the U.S. Army. This was before he began his career in music and television. His early life also included dancing on *American Bandstand*.

What other TV shows did he appear on?

His television career was extensive. He had roles on *Supertrain*, *Kojak*, and *The Rockford Files*. He also guest-starred on *Charlie’s Angels*, *Taxi*, and *Hill Street Blues*.

Was he involved in music later in life?

Yes, he performed regularly in Las Vegas. He was a staple at the Dispensary Lounge, singing classic standards. He continued performing until recently.

What was his role in the Ocean’s films?

DeLano played a casino manager in *Ocean’s Eleven* (2001) and *Ocean’s Twelve* (2004). The films featured an ensemble cast led by George Clooney. His character was part of the Las Vegas casino setting.