The entertainment world is mourning the passing of Anthony Guidera, the actor best known for his role in The Godfather Part III, who died on Saturday, June 6, 2026. He was 65.
Guidera's wife, Valarie, confirmed that on May 11, the couple was at home in Southern California when Anthony suddenly collapsed and his heart stopped beating. He was rushed to the hospital, where he was placed on life support for three weeks. Doctors ultimately removed him from life support in accordance with his prior directive, so he could be brought home for a natural passing.
Despite extensive medical care, the cause of his cardiac arrest remains unknown - doctors have been unable to determine what caused his heart to stop.
His wife Valarie shared a heartfelt statement: "It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of our beloved Anthony. We are devastated and trying to breathe through the impossible, taking each moment as it comes. Please hold this eternal light in your hearts and our family in your prayers."
His passing was also confirmed by Astara, a spiritual foundation organization where Guidera had volunteered. Friends remembered him for what they described as his depth of faith and the spiritual warmth he brought to those around him.
Guidera launched his film career in 1990 with a role in Francis Ford Coppola's The Godfather Part III, playing Anthony the Bodyguard. He went on to appear in Species (1995), The Rock (1996), The Postman (1997), and Armageddon (1998), among others. For his role in Species, he earned the MTV Movie Award for Best On-Screen Kiss alongside Natasha Henstridge.
He is survived by his wife Valarie and their son Nick. Anthony and Valarie were married for 20 years.
The family asks for prayers as they navigate this loss. May Anthony Guidera rest in the peace he carried with him throughout his life.
