Vincent Schiavelli — American Actor born on November 10, 1948, died on December 26, 2005

Vincent Andrew Schiavelli was an American character actor noted for his work on stage, screen, and television, often described as "the man with the sad eyes." He was notable for his numerous and often critically acclaimed supporting roles. Schiavelli was also well known for his height, standing 6 ft 6 in... (wikipedia)

What makes cookbooks interesting is to find out about the people and the culture that invented the food.
My grandfather was a chef for a Baron in Sicily before he came to America. I grew up with him. I used to do my homework at one end of the kitchen table while he cooked at the other end.
I had a wonderful time playing Dr. Kaufman in Tomorrow Never Dies. It was a real Bond villain, over the top, almost laughable but dangerous.
You grow up in a Sicilian household, becoming an actor is not a big leap.
Your face is your calling card, but you're not so famous that you can't go out.