# Dom DeLuise > American actor (1933–2009) **Wikidata**: [Q348209](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q348209) **Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dom_DeLuise) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/dom-deluise ## Summary Dom DeLuise (1933–2009) was an American actor, voice actor, writer, and film director known for his comedic roles and contributions to film and television. He gained widespread recognition for his work in movies such as *The Cannonball Run* series and *All Dogs Go to Heaven*, as well as for his collaborations with Burt Reynolds. ## Biography - Born: August 1, 1933, New York City, United States - Nationality: American - Education: Attended Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts; studied at Tufts University and the American Musical and Dramatic Academy - Known for: Comedy acting, voice acting, directing, and writing - Employer(s): Worked in Hollywood film and television industries; affiliated with major studios and independent productions - Field(s): Acting, directing, voice acting, writing, radio, and television ## Contributions Dom DeLuise made significant contributions across multiple entertainment sectors: - **Film Career**: Starred in over 100 films, including *The Cannonball Run* (1981), *Cannonball Run II* (1984), *The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas* (1982), and *All Dogs Go to Heaven* (1989), where he also provided voice work. - **Voice Acting**: Lended his voice to animated characters in films like *An American Tail* (1986) and *The Secret of NIMH* (1982), contributing to the emotional depth and appeal of animated storytelling. - **Writing and Directing**: Authored several cookbooks, including *Dom DeLuise’s Cookbook* (1988) and *Take My Cats... Please!* (1992); directed films such as *The Lady in Red* (1979). - **Television and Radio**: Made appearances on variety shows and talk shows, establishing himself as a versatile performer; also worked as a radio personality. - **Legacy Projects**: His work in voice acting and comedy influenced a generation of performers and contributed to the evolution of family-friendly animated films in the late 20th century. ## FAQs ### What is Dom DeLuise best known for? Dom DeLuise is best known for his comedic film roles, particularly in the *Cannonball Run* series and his collaborations with Burt Reynolds. He also gained fame for his voice work in animated films like *An American Tail* and *All Dogs Go to Heaven*. ### Where did Dom DeLuise receive his education? He attended Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts in New York. He later studied at Tufts University and the American Musical and Dramatic Academy. ### Did Dom DeLuise work in other media besides film? Yes, he was also a television actor, voice actor, radio personality, and author. He wrote cookbooks and contributed to various television programs and radio shows. ### What awards or recognitions did Dom DeLuise receive? He received a Golden Raspberry Award for Worst Supporting Actress (a satirical award) and was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. ## Why They Matter Dom DeLuise’s influence spans decades of American entertainment. His comedic timing and distinctive voice made him a household name, particularly in the 1980s and 1990s. He helped shape the landscape of family-friendly animated films and brought humor to a wide range of genres. His collaborations with Burt Reynolds defined a comedic era, and his voice work left a lasting impact on animation. His books and radio appearances further solidified his status as a multi-talented entertainer whose work transcended traditional boundaries. ## Notable For - Starring in over 100 films, including *The Cannonball Run* and *All Dogs Go to Heaven* - Providing voice work in animated classics like *An American Tail* and *The Secret of NIMH* - Writing multiple cookbooks, including *Dom DeLuise’s Cookbook* - Directing films such as *The Lady in Red* - Receiving a Golden Raspberry Award and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame - Being a versatile entertainer across film, television, radio, and voice acting - Collaborating with Burt Reynolds in several iconic comedies - Educated at prestigious institutions including Tufts University and LaGuardia Arts High School ## Body ### Early Life Dom DeLuise was born Dominick DeLuise on August 1, 1933, in Manhattan, New York City, to Italian-American parents. He showed an early interest in the arts and attended Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts, a school known for training future performers. He later pursued studies at Tufts University and the American Musical and Dramatic Academy, honing his skills in performance and comedy. ### Career DeLuise began his career in live television, appearing on variety shows and early talk shows. His transition to film began in the 1960s, and by the 1970s, he had become a recognizable face in comedy. He frequently collaborated with Burt Reynolds, starring in *The Cannonball Run* (1981), *Cannonball Run II* (1984), and *The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas* (1982). These films solidified his reputation as a comedic actor with broad appeal. In addition to live-action roles, DeLuise became a prominent voice actor. He voiced characters in *An American Tail* (1986), *The Secret of NIMH* (1982), and *All Dogs Go to Heaven* (1989), where he also served as a producer. His deep, expressive voice brought animated characters to life and contributed to the emotional resonance of these films. ### Writing and Directing DeLuise was also a published author, writing cookbooks such as *Dom DeLuise’s Cookbook* (1988) and *Take My Cats... Please!* (1992). These works showcased his humor and passion for cooking. He also directed films, including *The Lady in Red* (1979), demonstrating his versatility behind the camera. ### Television and Radio He made frequent appearances on television shows, including variety programs and talk shows, and worked as a radio personality. His presence in multiple media formats made him a well-rounded entertainer with a broad audience reach. ### Awards and Recognition DeLuise received both acclaim and satire in the form of a Golden Raspberry Award for Worst Supporting Actress, a tongue-in-cheek honor. He also earned a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, recognizing his contributions to the entertainment industry. ### Legacy Dom DeLuise passed away on May 4, 2009, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and creativity. His influence on comedy, voice acting, and family entertainment continues to resonate. His work in animation helped define the tone and style of 1980s and 1990s children’s films, and his collaborations with major stars like Burt Reynolds remain iconic. His multifaceted career as an actor, writer, director, and voice artist underscores his enduring impact on American entertainment. ## References 1. BnF authorities 2. Integrated Authority File 3. [Source](http://razzies.com/asp/content/XcNewsPlus.asp?cmd=view&articleid=25) 4. [Hollywood Walk of Fame](https://walkoffame.com/dom-deluise/) 5. International Standard Name Identifier 6. Virtual International Authority File 7. CiNii Research 8. MusicBrainz 9. SNAC 10. Internet Broadway Database 11. Find a Grave 12. [Source](http://www.boston.com/ae/celebrity/articles/2009/05/05/dom_deluise_actor_comedian_and_chef_dies/) 13. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013 14. CONOR.SI 15. Dom DeLuise (37 Character Images) - Behind The Voice Actors. Behind The Voice Actors 16. Cinemathèque québécoise Linked Open Data 17. The Movie Database