Fictional Mob Boss
Vito Corleone
About
Vito Corleone is the patriarch of the Corleone crime family and the central figure of The Godfather, portrayed by Marlon Brando and Robert De Niro. Known as ‘The Don’ and ‘The Godfather,’ Vito built his criminal empire through a combination of ruthless efficiency and a strict code of honor. Marlon Brando’s legendary performance created one of the most iconic characters in cinema history.
Before Fame
Born Vito Andolini in Corleone, Sicily, young Vito fled to America after a local Mafia don killed his family. He arrived at Ellis Island as an orphan and was given the surname Corleone after his hometown.
Trivia
- He was portrayed by Marlon Brando, who won the Academy Award for Best Actor
- Robert De Niro played the young Vito and also won an Oscar
- The Godfather is consistently ranked among the greatest films ever made
- His quote 'I'm gonna make him an offer he can't refuse' is iconic
- The character was created by Mario Puzo in his 1969 novel
Family Life
He married Carmela and had four children: Sonny, Fredo, Michael, and Connie. He also informally adopted Tom Hagen, who became the family's consigliere.
Associated With
Michael Corleone
Tom Hagen
Sonny Corleone
Fredo Corleone
Don Barzini