Tony Danza, an American actor, teacher, dancer, and former boxer, boasts a net worth of $40 million. Best known for his roles in the television series “Taxi” and “Who’s the Boss?,” Danza has had a long and varied career. He has received numerous accolades, including an Emmy Award nomination and four Golden Globe nominations. He also won a People’s Choice Award. Outside of TV, Danza has appeared in several films and continues to engage in various projects.
What Was Tony Danza’s Early Life Like?
Antonio Salvatore Iadanza was born on April 21, 1951, in Brooklyn, New York City. Raised in a working-class Italian household, he grew up with a younger brother. The family lived in East New York before relocating to Long Island when Tony was 14. Despite describing himself as a “bad student,” he managed to graduate from high school in 1968. His athletic prowess earned him a wrestling scholarship to the University of Dubuque, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in history in 1972.
How Did Danza Transition from Boxing to Acting?
Before his acting career took off, Danza was a professional boxer. His record was impressive, boasting nine wins and only three losses. Out of these wins, nine were knockouts, three of which were technical knockouts. Interestingly, all but one of his matches ended in a knockout. While training in a boxing gym, a producer noticed him and offered him an audition for the TV show “Taxi.” Danza’s audition was successful, landing him the role of a cab driver and part-time boxer, which became his breakthrough role.
Which Roles Made Tony Danza a Household Name?
Tony Danza’s role in “Taxi” from 1978 to 1983 was his first major acting gig. He starred alongside comedy legends like Danny DeVito, Judd Hirsch, Carol Kane, Marilu Henner, and Andy Kaufman. This role catapulted him into stardom. His next major role in “Who’s the Boss?” further cemented his fame. The series, which ran from 1984 to 1992, saw Danza portraying Tony Micelli, a former baseball player turned housekeeper. The show consistently ranked in the top 10 in ratings, and Danza’s performance earned him a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1988.
How Did Danza Expand His Career Beyond Television?
After “Who’s the Boss?” ended, Danza continued to diversify his career. In 1994, he played a baseball player in the film “Angels in the Outfield.” Other notable films include “The Hollywood Knights” and “Going Ape!” Although his subsequent sitcoms “Hudson Street” and “The Tony Danza Show” were short-lived, he continued to find roles in television. By 2000, he landed a role in the legal drama “Family Law” and later appeared in “The Practice,” which earned him an Emmy nomination.
Danza also received critical acclaim for his Broadway performances, including his 1999 role in “The Iceman Cometh.” He continued to shine on stage, starring in “The Producers” in 2007 and “Honeymoon in Vegas” in 2013. In 2018, he starred in the Netflix series “The Good Cop,” although it was canceled after one season. In 2020, Sony announced a reboot of “Who’s the Boss?” with Danza and Alyssa Milano reprising their original roles.
What Surprised Fans About Danza’s Career Choices?
In an unexpected career move, Danza taught 10th-grade English at a high school in Philadelphia for a year. His experiences were documented in the reality TV show “Teach: Tony Danza” on A&E. He later wrote a book about this experience titled “I’d Like to Apologize to Every Teacher I Ever Had: My Year as a Rookie Teacher at Northeast High.” This venture showcased his commitment to education and his ability to connect with people outside of the entertainment industry.
What Is Known About Danza’s Personal Life and Relationships?
Tony Danza’s personal life has seen its share of ups and downs. He married his first wife, Rhonda Yeoman, in 1970, and they had a son, Marc, before divorcing in 1974. The couple reunited in 1983 and had a daughter, Gina, but separated again shortly after. In 1986, Danza married Tracy Robinson. They had two daughters, Katherine and Emily, before separating in 2006 and finalizing their divorce in 2011.
How Does Danza Maintain His Health and Fitness at 73?
At 73, Tony Danza remains dedicated to his health and fitness. He maintains an active lifestyle and continues to train regularly. Despite being diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, he follows a balanced diet and exercise regimen to manage his condition effectively. Danza’s commitment to fitness is part of his daily routine, and he credits it for his continued vitality and confidence.
What Lies Ahead for Tony Danza?
Tony Danza’s journey from boxer to beloved TV star and beyond showcases his versatility and resilience. His continued passion for acting, teaching, and personal fitness inspires many. As he looks forward to new opportunities, Danza’s legacy in the entertainment industry remains strong. His story is a testament to the power of dedication, adaptability, and staying true to one’s passions.