Frank DiLeo facts for kids

Frank Michael DiLeo (born October 23, 1947 – died August 24, 2011) was an American music executive and actor. He was well-known for playing the character Tuddy Cicero in the movie Goodfellas. Frank DiLeo also managed the famous singer Michael Jackson from 1984 to 1989, and again in 2009.

Frank DiLeo's Music Career

Frank DiLeo started his career in the music world in the late 1960s. After high school, he began by distributing records to stores in Pittsburgh. Soon, he got a job at Epic Records in 1968. This company was part of CBS Records.

Working at Epic Records

At Epic Records, Frank helped promote albums by artists like The Hollies and Sly and the Family Stone. He worked to get their music played on local radio stations. Later, he moved to the company's regional office in Chicago. He also worked for other record companies like RCA Records and Bell Records.

In 1979, Frank DiLeo returned to Epic Records in New York City. He became the Vice President of National Promotion. He led a team of 65 people and managed a large budget. Frank helped Epic Records grow from a small company to a very successful one.

Helping Artists Succeed

During his time at Epic, Frank DiLeo helped many artists become popular. Some of these artists included Quiet Riot, REO Speedwagon, Ozzy Osbourne, Gloria Estefan, Cyndi Lauper, and Culture Club. He received over 80 gold and platinum awards for his work. He was even named "executive of the year" for Epic Records.

Managing Michael Jackson

In 1984, after his huge album Thriller became a hit, Michael Jackson asked Frank DiLeo to be his manager. Frank helped produce the movie Moonwalker. He also worked on three commercials for Pepsi-Cola and eight music videos. One of these videos, "Leave Me Alone", won a Grammy Award.

Frank DiLeo also managed Michael Jackson's Bad World Tour. He also managed the Victory Tour for the Jackson family. He managed Michael Jackson until 1989. They worked together again in 2009 for Michael Jackson's This Is It concert series. Frank DiLeo saw Michael Jackson for the last time on June 25, 2009, shortly after the singer had passed away.

Other Artists and Businesses

Frank DiLeo also managed the careers of other musicians. These included Taylor Dayne, Jodeci, Laura Branigan, and Richie Sambora, who was a guitarist for Bon Jovi. He also worked with Prince on some projects.

DiLeo later started his own company called Dileo Entertainment Group. This company was located in Nashville, Tennessee. It focused on helping new artists and creating a music publishing company. Frank DiLeo also wrote a book about his years in the music industry.

Frank DiLeo's Acting Roles

Besides his work in music, Frank DiLeo also acted in several movies. He appeared in six major films.

Film Appearances

• Moonwalker (1988) – Jack – Dancer
• Goodfellas (1990) – Tuddy Cicero
• Wayne's World (1992) – Frankie "Mr. Big" Sharp
• Wayne's World 2 (1993) – Frankie "Mr. Big" Sharp
• Kiss of Death (1995) – Big Junior's Friend

Later Life and Death

In 2011, Frank DiLeo had a heart attack and received treatment in Los Angeles. He passed away on August 24, 2011, at the age of 63. He died in a care facility near Youngstown, Ohio, after having complications from heart surgery.