Danny Aiello, ‘Do the Right Thing,’ ‘Moonstruck’ actor dead at 86

Danny Aiello dies at 86

Danny Aiello, a character actor known for his portrayal of a pizza shop owner in Spike Lee's "Do the Right Thing" has died. He was 86.

His literary agent confirmed his death Friday but had no other details, The New York Times reported.

Aiello made his movie debut at 40.

He was nominated for an Academy Award for his role for his depiction of a white business owner in a predominantly black neighborhood.

Cher, his co-star in "Moonstruck," shared her condolences Friday on social media.

"Danny was a Great Actor, but a genius comedic actor," she wrote. "We Laughed so much making 'Moonstruck.'"

Aiello also had roles in three Woody Allen films including “The Purple Rose of Cairo,” and “Radio Days.”

He also was in “Harlem Nights,” “The Godfather Part II,” and “Once Upon A Time in America.”