HBO’s Boardwalk Empire heads into its final season beginning in September, but before the show fades to black, The Levity Ball caught up with one of its leading stars, Tonino Sandrelli aka actor Chris Caldovino!
Chris, who is also known for his role in the recent award-winning film The Wolf of Wall Street as well as playing Billy Leotardo in the hit television series The Sopranos, sat down with us and opened fire about his life, advice, charity and career in the entertainment business.
What first attracted you to pursue a career in acting and what was your first paid job?
Scorsese films first attracted me to the world of entertainment & acting, and my first paid job was Femalians 2! LOL!
How has your experience been working on HBO’s hit series, Boardwalk Empire?
Absolutely the best experience I’ve ever had working. The cast and crew are amazing. The level of work is such that forces you to bring your A-game.
Are you upset that it’s the final season?
Yes, of course I am! As an actor on the show and a viewer.
Who are your role models: both now and when you were growing up?
My acting role model would have to be Robert De Niro. And he still is!
What is the craziest request you have ever gotten from a fan? 
Back when I shooting The Sopranos a guy asked me for an autograph for his daughter. I asked what his daughters name was, he said “Fred”.
What advice would you give others who want to move to Hollywood and be a star / purse acting?
My advice would be to be mentally prepared and well trained in your craft. Be prepared to work hard. Be prepared for rejection on a daily basis. Also very important: have a way to support yourself while pursuing your career. Above all, have faith in yourself!
If you weren’t in the entertainment industry, what would you be doing?
A few things that I can’t talk about! Kidding! Honestly, I don’t even think about that.
What would your “dream role” be, besides Boardwalk Empire of course?!
Starring in a movie written by Terry Winter and directed by Marty Scorsese.
What charity is close to your heart?
St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital (http://www.stjude.org) is a charity I support.
If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be?
That’s a tough question since there are so many ills in the world. I think we have to start with the suffering of children in any form. I know it sounds like a cliché, but they really are the future.
