Michael Imperioli Says He Stayed in Character the First Time He Met Robert DeNiro on the Set of “Goodfellas”

Michael Imperioli recently shared his memorable experience of working with Robert De Niro while filming the iconic movie Goodfellas. The actor, now 60 years old, was just 23 when he stepped onto the set of the 1990 crime classic, and his recollections of this time offer a unique insight into the filming process and the relationships fostered among the cast.

In a recent event hosted at New York City’s Cherry Lane Theatre alongside Sofia Coppola, Imperioli reflected on the influential style of director Martin Scorsese. He revealed that Scorsese encouraged actors to maintain their characters both on and off camera, significantly affecting the atmosphere of the set. “He said, ‘My trailer’s over here. If you have any questions, come and see me,'” Imperioli recalled. What stood out to him was Scorsese’s insistence that the actors should treat each other as their characters outside of the filming context. This approach helped to ease the nerves of budding actors like Imperioli, who were daunted by the presence of seasoned stars.

Imperioli’s first encounter with De Niro was a defining moment in his career. He described the nervousness he felt when he found himself in the same vicinity as the legendary actor. On this occasion, though, he made a calculated decision to engage De Niro in character, which he believed would alleviate any intimidating feelings. “I walked up to him and I just said, ‘Jimmy, what are you drinking?'” Imperioli recalled, referring to De Niro’s character in the film. The actor’s initial confusion quickly turned to recognition, leading to a more natural interaction.

The anecdote highlights an important aspect of film-making—immersing oneself in the character to create authentic performances. “I brought him a shot of scotch which I poured at the bar and a glass of water,” Imperioli continued. His decision to serve De Niro in character rather than approach him as a fan proved effective, allowing the two to connect over their shared roles rather than breaking the immersive experience with typical admiration. “The last thing he wants is, like, some young actor going, ‘I loved you in Raging Bull,'” he noted. This sentiment underscores the often unacknowledged pressures that come with working alongside legendary figures in cinema.

Goodfellas itself, an adaptation of Nicholas Pileggi’s book Wiseguy: Life in a Mafia Family, showcases a narrative that follows Henry Hill, played by Ray Liotta. Hill, a young man enamoured by the Mafia lifestyle, navigates his way through organised crime before ultimately turning state witness. The film’s layered storytelling and rich character development are at the heart of its enduring success, and much of that is attributed to the compelling performances delivered by its ensemble cast.

The film achieved critical acclaim, garnering six Academy Award nominations, a testament to the powerful portrayals that resonated with audiences and critics alike. Among its star-studded cast were familiar faces such as Joe Pesci, who won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for his role, and Lorraine Bracco, contributing to the film’s legacy.

Reflecting on the collaborative spirit fostered by Scorsese, Imperioli’s insights shed light on the immersive environment that characterised the making of Goodfellas. His interactions with De Niro, framed within the larger context of the film’s production, illustrate how the dynamics between actors can influence performances and enhance the storytelling experience.

As Imperioli and Coppola reminisced about their experiences in the industry, it became clear that the connections forged on set extend beyond the camera. Their reflections demonstrate the profound impact of collaboration, particularly in a high-stakes environment like that of a Scorsese film, where creativity and professionalism intertwine to produce cinematic masterpieces.

The effects of these interactions linger long after filming has concluded, as actors carry the memories and lessons into future projects. For Imperioli, the opportunity to work alongside De Niro and other talented individuals remains a highlight of his career. Such experiences undoubtedly shape an actor’s craft and leave lasting impressions on their professional journey.