Ray Liotta Discusses Earlier Career, Martin Scorsese's Genius & Actors Today

Hollywood veteran Ray Liotta - whose career has spanned nearly four decades - talks shop with Larry about landing his first role at 31, Martin Scorsese's genius, and the trouble with actors today. Plus, a Goodfellas sequel? Ray weighs in.
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[@000_x9]

Makes me cry. He seemed like such a cool guy and dad. We already know he was a brilliant actor. 68 was too young.

[@dwightshaver9468]

RIP Ray. Such sad news to hear about his passing today. Prayers for his daughter and family.

[@dunbardunelm3924]

Omfg. That's really sad. Beautiful guy. Made some great movies. So young though. What happened omfg.

[@joemckim1183]

There was only one Ray Liotta. Goodfellas would've been such a different movie if someone other than Ray played Henry Hill.

[@stevenweishaupt8591]

He was a incredible actor and regular guy without ego . He will be missed on this earth . May he RIP God bless his soul .

[@harryfrezza1931]

Union High (NJ)!

[@anonb4632]

A very underrated actor with a great screen presence.

[@anonb4632]

@@marythomas1198 Most of the public round here wouldn't know him from Adam.

[@CarlosHernandez-kd2vb]

@@anonb4632 Nothing underrated about him top notch actor!

[@leegilmour8090]

@@anonb4632 what cave do you live in?

[@Yourballix]

@@leegilmour8090 most people couldn’t name 5 films he was in

[@vickibarrett3960]

Biggest fear 'death' If he was going to go out in anyway, in his sleep is probably best. He never knew. Such a loss. RIP Ray

[@LolaS3389]

Both are gone 💔💔

[@ludwigfan3013]

Great actor. One of the few in Hollywood that isn't a phony

[@cellis3045]

True what Larry says...when Ray is on screen you cannot take your eyes off him...a very compelling, intensive actor...underrated at times...he should be in the super league not just a good character actor...

[@leematheson3887]

I think his down to earth nature shone through in his characters and gave them believability. Great guy, great commitment to his roles...legend.

[@melaniemiles2783]

He evidently needed a better manager. I wonder if he stayed with the first one he hooked up with? He needed one from Hollywood that knew more about show business and making movies.

[@colin7225]

Doesn't get the credit the likes of pesci, de Niro, kietel, walken get, and maybe he's not the same caliber for some. But for me he always lights up the screen every movie i have seen him, deserves his place in every role iv seen.

[@noname-jh3bd]

R.I.P., Ray Liotta. You will never be forgotten!

[@stevenicol1]

He looks great for 60 and I love his openness, I admire that in a person.

[@ratiug75]

Ray is very cool, down to earth, and always has been a great actor.

[@elinorhawke-szady1198]

The first movie I ever saw Ray Liotta in was Something Wild with Melanie Griffith and Jeff Daniels. Ray stole the movie and I've watched almost everything he's ever been in since then. Phenomenal talent and definitely in my list of favorite actors.

[@edp3202]

He hadn't worked for five years before SW and after soap operas. Can you imagine? How wasn't he hired before SW?

[@joemckim1183]

@@edp3202 Apparently De Niro saw him in SW and suggested him to Scorsese for Goodfellas.

[@debbiemullen2574]

I remember him in Another World and was so excited to see him on Broadway a few years ago. I waited outside after and got his autograph. Sweet guy.

[@Underhills]

In my book one of the top actors in the world. He's up there with Sean Penn, Al Pacino, Robert De Niro...

[@Mr_Justy]

Not sure why everyone always says he never hit superstar status or that he was underrated. As a kid of the 80s and 90s, he was our Deniro. John Cusack and Ray Liota, the best

[@midnightdriver6609]

R.I.P Ray. What a legend you've truly been !

[@michaeld.williamsiii9026]

What initially and originally drew me to Ray Liotta was that he like me, was adopted. Which inspired me, because I too and still at times wear the label and heaviness on my sleeve. That I’m adopted and was abandoned by my mom, which has left me with scars even, Mr. Liotta’s beautiful piercing eyes often attracted me to him. May he always Rest In Peace.💐💫💐

[@dafcorleone]

he has an amazing voice, as a narrator he is great!

[@evanshear5378]

It's sad these two legends are gone.

[@tonyanastasio6959]

Ray is just great. Always been a fan of his acting. Great, genuine guy. He should get bigger leading roles in movies with big directors because he's fantastic. Love and peace, Ray.

[@josephconsoli4128]

Ray has one of the most unique and recognizable voices of all the Hollywood great. If you didn't see him, and just heard his voice, you'd know it's him. The Henry Hill role is legendary.

[@Lic.en.derecho]

I could see this man on screen all day...such a delight. So underrated. RIP

[@Coolwater48]

He is alive ..it was needed to be told that dead for personal reasons

[@evelynverdejo6926]

Ray and Larry now reunited 🥲

[@darlenelavelle6206]

Love this guy. Rip. You will be truly missed.

[@veronicaroodt4328]

Ray is my favourite actor. I love that he does not want to get political. He is right about being a bit mysterious ..much better.

[@decadentia84]

He really does totally capture your attention any time he's on the screen. Intense intense actor. I honestly couldn't picture anyone else playing Henry Hill, it wouldn't be Goodfellas.

[@benjamindufresne331]

I really love the fact that Ray still remember's all of his projects and the people he has work with. Too many famous people act like they don't remember their first parts 'cause they're big stars now

[@markoragnos6757]

He is one of my acting gods. His performances in Goodfellas and in Narc give me the chills. Top top actor.

[@Jordan-mq4wj]

it's a shame he never got more big roles after goodfellas

[@Crystal3lf]

He was in Vice City. Can't get bigger than a Rockstar game. Literally.

[@fendi-bull8167]

Not a movie roll but his voice always stay into Gamer's heart on GTA Vice City.

[@jennifersman7990]

I think it goes back to the idea of doing varied roles and not being typecast, he’s done lots of film roles some you’ve seen some you haven’t, it’s not like he totally disappeared after GoodFellas

[@emiliospowerballer1441]

His scene with pesci laughing should have been handed him an oscar, he was phenomenal in that movie

[@morten1]

I hope you've seen Cop Land. Maybe not a "staring" role but still very important for the film, and Ray was great as usual

[@marishavanyan7308]

May You Rest in Magnificence, Ray😢😥... You were exceptionally gifted, beautiful, unique and rare. I feel utterly sad as many do I believe. 💔💔💔💔

[@blancaestrada396]

I am a Ray Liotta fan, we share the same age , I am so so sad my hero actor. is gone...he looked a little like my dad my dad was very down to earth like. Mr. Liotta.....that's why love 💕 him so so much ....he was incredible .....

[@LindaAnnReynoldsEdS]

Love Ray Liota!♥️. You will be missed!

[@anag8185]

Yes same! greatest fear is death.. cannot afford to leave this earth nor leave my growing children behind.. felt that part totally 🙌 RIP Ray! You were an amazing actor! Watched most of your movies & hopefully will see them all soon! ❤️

[@davidadams2395]

Yeah, my biggest fear too, but not my own as much as the deaths of those I love. As for my own death, I hope it is as peaceful as Ray's―whenever it comes.

[@WOODBINEMAN99]

One of the greatest actors ever-RIP Ray-we'll miss you

[@EagleEyeAlphax]

Just one of the greatest actors !!

[@charlychips]

He was fantastic. He is fantastic. You can tell he was a lovely man. rip Ray. Thanks so much for your art.

[@mercster]

"I'm partial to Miss Piggy." Words you never thought would come out of Ray Liota's mouth.

[@annetteathanasatos1229]

I remember Ray on the soap, Another World. He was great, & dreamy. He is one of my favorite actors. He's a natural. Wishing you all the best in your career. Keep making movies, you are great.

[@mikeangelle1406]

rest well ray. you were great.

[@diggerpete9334]

An amazing personality and will be so sorrowfully missed. Thank you Ray for giving us your talent and time.

[@MaineOffGrid.]

Legend. His characters are so real. One of the best.

[@komoleeray687]

Love Ray’s honesty and straightforwardness. No BS kind of guy but nice guy too

[@chrismale9976]

Great great actor his portrayal of Henry Hill is possibly the greatest performance ever

[@donnadizucchero]

I can see it in his face how vicious, uncomfortable, outrageous he CAN be, and also how beautiful and strong and passionate his personality is... Wish we saw him more and in more versatile parts...

[@maggieb369]

he has such a distinctive voice!

[@bobsteel6916]

Ray was one of those people who when you heard the news of his death, you just can't believe it of all people. RIP Mr. Buddy Ray. 💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐

[@Underhills]

I'm not from the Americas but I watch a great deal of US movies. Mr. Ray Liotta is easily one of the greatest male actors I've ever seen. It's actually quite amazing he's not in more movies but I guess his exclusivity is one of his great assets. Great to see an honest close up interview with him. I love Larry King, he's not caught up in the celebrity side of things but always chases the authenticity. Great stuff! Thanks.

[@Lekha84]

I love Ray Liotta!!! I’ve been a fan of his since I was little. In my opinion he is a legend. I agree with Larry King when he talks about Ray Liotta’s presence in film/tv. I’m always drawn to him when I watch him. I remember watching Wild Hogs and even though he had a smaller part in the whole movie, he and his character was the best out of all of it! He is an incredible actor who deserves all the success that life has to offer.

[@lionessmummy4418]

I always thought he seemed to be a very mean, sorry, but a very spiteful actor. After really listening to him in interviews he seems very honest, outspoken and passionate. I’m surprised how funny he is, in an unassuming way. Now, I think he’s genuine. I’d love to sit and listen to his stories.

[@jasonphillips7491]

Ray liotta in goodfellas was my favorite

[@Tabish29]

Ray had these captivating eyes that did a lot of the acting. Since his death I've been thinking what films of his I've seen. John Q. Narc. Unlawful Entry. The Iceman. Copland. I've yet to see Field of Dreams. I still think Goodfellas is his best film. I'll miss Ray Liotta that's for sure.

[@TonyVega123]

This guy plays bad guys better than anyone I've ever seen.

[@kensteely3118]

Tony Vega and he really is a good fella

[@morten1]

In Cop Land he played a bad guy with a growing conscience. Awesome

[@LibraPoet99]

Unlawful Entry comes to mind. Definitely gave me the chills! Amazing actor!

[@TonyVega123]

@@LibraPoet99 Unlawful Entry is such an underrated piece and a great example of Liotta's genius. I had totally forgotten about my original comment from 7 years ago, but I still stand by it. I was very sad to learn about his passing.

[@beverleyreid563]

Came here just to get some more of Ray (and Larry). Miss you both.

[@peteroehl673]

What a down to earth just regular guy! I don’t think he even realized the extent of his own talent and popularity because of his humility. He is so greatly missed! Definitely one of the greatest ever!!! RIP

[@WuManGroup]

One of the best of that generation

[@realfubz]

I cannot find a single interview where Ray Liotta is asked about Vice City. I just wanna see him discuss it.

[@Icebears4ever]

Same, but I want to see him discuss Revolver (2005). Not even in text-form despite playing a main role.

[@samamber6699]

There’s no one like Ray Liotta. No one can be as sweet and at the same time menacing as this man. What a gem.

[@n23817]

A great versatile actor. Loved his wonderful talent ❣️

[@lesliewyatt4188]

Epic Interview!! Ray is one of the Best Actors ever, & so talented. By all means, Ray is a SuperStar. A Legend. He nails every role. Also, I am adopted & I can relate to what he says about the emotional ambiguity 100%

[@pjj9491]

Miss you Ray...one of the best actors ever and sooooo gorgeous 😍

[@kevino3881]

Two legends who are flying high with the Angels #Greats

[@init2winit53]

started the video and loved every minute of it, a true actor that can have you laughing one minute and crying the next.. my favorite is Blow, he plays a great part.

[@jaclynmormile4102]

Two Icons in their own right!,Ray Liotta, great guy and so down to earth, Larry King best interviewer of all time...May they rest in peace!God Bless...

[@jeffjones1056]

Seems like a honest down to earth man would love to meet him not because of fame but he seems sincere like a true friend

[@mr.smithgnrsmith7808]

I was at a Giant grocery store in Md years ago and was right behind Liotta in line. Really nice man. Great actor

[@nicecutie]

i really miss these guys.

[@yeetboi9817]

Ray has got one of the most badass voices in the business.

[@islandstrong2oh9]

Both of these men are gone. Rest In Peace two absolute legends in the film and show industry

[@Lawrence_619]

it just hit me.....they're both gone. Wow. You observe people like them, and you see them prosper in their respective occupations. But when you get attached to their 'aura', you never think about their departure until they 'look the part' or it just flat out, happens. I liked King's old show, obviously. You checked into his show, out of habit. Thats how good he was with the one on one. And Liotta, believe it or not, was that guy that a lot of us guys wanted to be like. Talented out the back door...but he could walk down the street without being mobbed. Two legends, honestly.

[@stevenpatrickstone766]

My mom remembers him as Joey Perinni on a soap called Another World and says she had a huge crush on him all the girls loved him then.

[@johnd9664]

I saw Ray on Another World also. I had no idea that the young man from 'Bay City' would hit it big in the movies. There are several of his AW eps posted online, and a Joey Perrini background page at www.anotherworldhomepage.com/1joey.html I think it's great that he still talks about his time then and doesn't hide it or pooh-pooh it like some actors with soap pasts do.

[@jennifersman7990]

Nice that he doesn’t downplay his soap opera days, lots of great actors got their start there

[@ZeroTolerance92]

Tommy Vercetti

[@zayddepaor5182]

Doesn't look 60 to me... and he is right about maintaining the mystique and anonymity on real life views etc...being better for an actor's ability to convincingly portray different roles in the eyes of the viewer

[@cindyerickson339]

RIP Both Legends🙏😔 Ray Liotta and Larry King

[@number-ok9wg]

Nice interview by Larry King. So nice to listen to. And Ray makes it special.

[@babycakes1402]

I liked him in Field of Dreams & Goodfellas but I LOVED him in Charlie St. Cloud! Such a shock... Wow... At least it sounds like it was peaceful but still, too young.

[@masulliv55]

Just saw good fellas again. He’s the star of the movie

[@wilhelmiina3046]

Actor that captures the viewer's films and series with strong acting performances. Ray's eyes would want to watch for as long as they are beautiful and captivating

[@DarkSkies72]

Wilhelmiina Corona Ray IN NOT AN ACTRESS. That’s Bruce Jenner

[@javiervalverde2374]

@@DarkSkies72 lol 😂😂😂. Good one 😂😂😂

[@goatvoicestwin1859]

You know...Ray was underrated as an actor which was a shame cause he was incredible..this guys was also incredible and as a human being as well....not too mention a true badass!! RIP Ray!!! We all love you and sorely miss you my brother

[@marygraham9338]

Ray Liotta is JUST THE BEST actor of all time.

[@robertroberto2487]

Ray A Generous Actor Giving And Intelligent ❤️ Loved People Enjoyed Life.Great Loving Father. RIP.

[@LenHummelChannel]

Makes for a very interesting interview. the guy looks and feels so authentic. and he probably does very little in terms of in depth interviews.

[@sarac.3568]

I love Ray Liotta and I always thought he was a superstar :D He is very well known considering he had just one very famous role. And I thought he was the handsomest actor alive for a long while.

[@selmahare]

What a man! Rest in peace Ray and my condolences to your dear daughter, may she fid the strength and many blessings in this life.

[@FriendlyNeighborhoodSnyderMan]

I love Ray!

[@danlivni2097]

Both Ray and Larry sadly have passed away

[@joycebaker9282]

May Ray Liotta R.I.P. he was one of my favorite actor, truly a fan of his.💯✝️☮

[@LaurenMiddleton28]

R.I.P. Both these people. Ray and Larry

[@carolkerfeld1764]

his career and authenticity is remarkable. I have watched many of his movies and love them

[@mercelo6882]

Two kings. R.I.P to both. Love them. Really like both their laughters too.

[@johnhenrymcmahon6878]

So biottersweet to see this. Great guy. God bless and RIP to my big brother Ray...JV Johnny

[@5dkauhanespiritualarts775]

He’s a super star to me

[@matthewbaysa4789]

Idk what it is but I can listen to him talk all day

[@benjaminflores3332]

I'm hooked on these broadcasts

[@jennifersman7990]

Benjamin Flores Me too, I lost my Roku setup so I’m glad I can see these on KZbin

[@jakeet999]

Such a great actor

[@tonyrizzo615]

Liotta, Forsythe, Walken Assante, all legends who didn’t have to Rub elbows with the industry and Academy.

[@canadianvehicleshippinginfo]

Wonderful actor, and great personality...

[@michelledavi0001]

To a Humble Man, Beautiful Eyes, Great Smile and a contagious Laugh.

[@johnnyjeastbelfast8795]

R.i.p Ray.... great actor n down to earth guy.. safe journey !!

[@thejunky17]

A Legend!

[@CuriouslyChris1]

As Another World fan, you will be missed❤️❤️❤️

[@sergiogentile7680]

Have so much love for this man Rip Ray