Peter Onorati is a face instantly recognizable to audiences across both film and television. With an impressive career spanning over 25 years and boasting well over 100 screen and television acting credits, Peter Onorati has solidified his place as a respected figure in Hollywood. Beyond his acting prowess, Peter Onorati has also contributed to the industry by serving on the board of SAG (Screen Actors Guild). From memorable roles in iconic films like Goodfellas, Postcards from the Edge, and Rocketman, to starring roles in television series such as Cop Rock, Civil Wars alongside Mariel Hemingway, and recurring roles in hit shows like CSI, NCIS, and How to Get Away with Murder, Peter Onorati’s versatility and talent are undeniable. Explore Peter Onorati’s extensive filmography to appreciate the breadth of his work.
This profile delves into the life and career of Peter Onorati, drawing insights from a conversation with a long-time friend, Bert Woodson. It also touches upon the experiences of his wife, Jeanette Collins, an Emmy Award-nominated screenwriter and producer who has worked with major studios like HBO, Warner Brothers, Disney, and Sony Pictures. Jeanette Collins’ credits include writing for groundbreaking shows like In Living Color and producing for series such as Suddenly Susan, Big Love, Dirt, and Drop Dead Diva. Together, Peter Onorati and Jeanette Collins represent a remarkable Hollywood success story, navigating demanding careers while raising a family and nurturing a lasting marriage – a feat that seems both admirable and insightful.
From Marketing to Center Stage: The Accidental Actor
Peter Onorati’s path to Hollywood was not a typical one. His journey began far from the glitz and glamour of the entertainment industry, revealing a fascinating transition from the corporate world to the unpredictable life of an actor.
Early Career and the Call of Comedy
Before becoming the acclaimed actor Peter Onorati we know today, he was immersed in the world of business and marketing. Peter Onorati earned his MBA from Farleigh Dickinson University while working at Ford Motor Company. This business acumen led him to a position at McCall’s magazine as Director of Marketing and Research. However, even amidst his corporate responsibilities, the lure of performance was present. Peter Onorati channeled his creative energy into improvisation and stand-up comedy, initially as a hobby. This passion for comedy wasn’t just a fleeting interest; it was a genuine expression of his personality and a hint at his future direction. As recounted by Bert Woodson, “At the time, Peter was the Director of Marketing and Research for McCalls magazine and doing Improvisation and stand-up comedy for fun on the side.” This period highlights Peter Onorati’s inherent comedic talent and his early forays into performance, setting the stage for his eventual career shift.
Transition to Acting and Hollywood
The transition from marketing executive to actor was sparked by Peter Onorati’s innate comedic talent and a touch of serendipity. His stand-up comedy act, a “Hasidic Siamese twin” routine, showcased his “twisted sense of humor and a love of the absurd,” as Woodson describes it. This comedic foundation proved to be a springboard into acting. Leaving McCall’s in 1986, Peter Onorati embarked on his acting career in New York City, starting with commercials. His first significant television role came in the final season of Kate and Allie. Shortly before relocating to Los Angeles with Jeanette Collins to pursue his acting career more seriously, Peter Onorati landed a small role in Martin Scorsese’s masterpiece, Goodfellas. This early film credit was a significant stepping stone and symbolized his commitment to acting. With Jeanette Collins’ support, Peter Onorati decided to pursue acting full-time in Los Angeles. This move marked the beginning of his prolific and enduring Hollywood career.
Balancing Hollywood Hustle with Family Values: Peter Onorati and Jeanette Collins’ Story
What sets Peter Onorati and Jeanette Collins apart in the often-unpredictable world of Hollywood is their ability to maintain a grounded and “normal” family life amidst demanding careers. Their enduring marriage and the way they raised their three sons – Sebastiano (Sonny), Francesco (Frankie), and Giancarlo (Charlie) – offer a refreshing perspective on navigating Hollywood pressures.
A Grounded Hollywood Couple
Peter Onorati and Jeanette Collins are described as remarkably “normal” and “warm and gracious,” devoid of typical Hollywood affectations. Their Spanish-influenced home, built in the 1920s, is described as a “real family home. Nothing ostentatious or over the top. It’s lived in and comfortable.” This down-to-earth lifestyle is a conscious choice. Peter Onorati emphasizes the importance of Jeanette Collins’ perspective as a writer and producer in keeping him grounded. He jokes, “I think since Jeanette is a writer/producer that she has been able to point out when I’m acting like an Actor Asshole.” This self-awareness and mutual check on Hollywood tendencies is a key element of their grounded approach. They consciously avoided the “Hollywood thing with assistants, etc.,” valuing time, money, and their relationship over superficial displays of industry status.
The Role of Family in Staying Grounded
For Peter Onorati and Jeanette Collins, family has been the anchor that keeps them grounded amidst the Hollywood whirlwind. Peter Onorati recounts prioritizing family over industry events early in his career, even when advised by agents to be more visible. “I remember when I started with one of the BIG agencies, they kept telling me you have to show up here or there. You have to show yourself … but I had young kids whose Mom was working, and I just needed to be around.” This dedication to family reflects a conscious decision to prioritize personal values over industry pressures. Jeanette Collins echoes this sentiment, stating, “Children always give you the greatest perspective in your life.” The intersection of work and family has been a “blessing” throughout their careers, allowing them to maintain perspective and balance. Their sons have played a crucial role in keeping their lives “real,” reinforcing the importance of family values in navigating the often-unrealistic expectations of Hollywood.
Peter Onorati’s Career Highlights: Memorable Roles and Collaborations
Peter Onorati’s career is marked by a diverse range of roles across film and television, showcasing his versatility and ability to connect with audiences. From dramatic roles to comedic turns, Peter Onorati has consistently delivered memorable performances.
Early Breakthroughs: Goodfellas and TV Roles
While Goodfellas marked an early film credit, Peter Onorati’s television work has been equally significant. His early TV roles, including Kate and Allie and Cop Rock, provided crucial experience and exposure. Cop Rock, in particular, created by the acclaimed Steven Bochco, was a unique and groundbreaking series that blended police drama with musical elements. Although short-lived, it was a memorable project in Peter Onorati’s career. Later, his role in Civil Wars alongside Mariel Hemingway further elevated his profile, showcasing his ability to portray complex and engaging characters in dramatic series. These early roles laid the foundation for his continued success in television.
The Playgirl Cover Story: A Humorous Detour
A particularly memorable and humorous episode in Peter Onorati’s career was his appearance on the cover of Playgirl magazine. Initially approached for a centerfold, Peter Onorati declined, joking, “I don’t want to lose the small fan base I already have.” However, he agreed to a cover shoot, orchestrated by his publicist as a “dessert” after attending a party at the Playboy Mansion. The photoshoot itself was a notable experience, conducted by renowned photographer Bob Gruen. The Playgirl cover became a funny anecdote in Peter Onorati’s career, highlighting his willingness to embrace unconventional opportunities and his self-deprecating humor. As Jeanette Collins playfully remarks, “He’s a bit of an exhibitionist, so of course it was FANTASTIC.”
“Sexiest TV Lawyer” and Beyond
Another accolade that added to Peter Onorati’s public persona was being named one of the “Sexiest TV Lawyers in 20 Years” by People Magazine. Reflecting on this recognition, Peter Onorati humorously attributes it to the actresses he worked with, stating, “In TV and film as in life, you’re only as sexy as the women who are attracted to you.” He recounts roles where he was paired with Susan St. James in Kate and Allie, Terry Austin in Cop Rock, and Mariel Hemingway in Civil Wars, suggesting these pairings contributed to his “sexy” image. However, Jeanette Collins offers a more grounded perspective, describing Peter Onorati as “one of the most available, sweet and engaging people I’ve ever met,” suggesting his appeal goes beyond just on-screen portrayals.
Reunion with Steven Bochco
Peter Onorati’s career came full circle when he reunited with Steven Bochco, the creator of Cop Rock, for the series Murder in the First. Joining the show as a regular character was a significant moment, marking a return to working with a mentor and a creator he deeply respected. Peter Onorati speaks fondly of his time working with Bochco, recalling both the creative environment and the intense practical jokes played on set. This collaboration highlights the enduring relationships and cyclical nature of a long career in Hollywood.
Insights on Success, Sexiness, and Life Lessons from Peter Onorati
Beyond his career milestones, Peter Onorati shares valuable insights gleaned from his experiences in Hollywood and life in general. His reflections on “sexiness,” marriage, and personal growth offer practical wisdom.
Defining “Sexy”: A Lesson in Self-Improvement
Peter Onorati’s perspective on “sexiness” is surprisingly insightful and moves beyond superficial definitions. He recounts a personal epiphany after a broken engagement in his 20s. Instead of focusing on “getting laid” on dates, he shifted his approach to genuinely connecting with people and learning from them. “So I set out NOT TO GET LAID. Yup, that’s right. I went on dates and through conversation tried to find the best parts of the person I was dating, while trying to show them the best parts of me, so that I could take from their best and hopefully add that to my personality and basically LEARN SOMETHING.” This approach, focused on self-improvement and genuine connection, ironically led to more romantic interest. His realization was that true “sexy” is not about superficial attributes but about genuine engagement and personal growth.
Advice on Marriage and Parenthood
When asked about advice on marriage and parenthood, Peter Onorati emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and mutual respect. “Realize that you can learn from everybody …Your wife … Your kids … Your kids friends.” He suggests that a successful marriage is not necessarily about finding the “Love of your Life” in a romanticized sense, but about choosing someone you can “LOVE for the rest of your life.” This pragmatic and growth-oriented perspective on relationships aligns with his grounded approach to life and career. Jeanette Collins simply and wholeheartedly agrees, “Ditto,” underscoring their shared values and partnership.
Conclusion
Peter Onorati’s journey from marketing executive to established Hollywood actor is a testament to his talent, adaptability, and grounded personality. His career, spanning iconic films and popular television series, showcases his versatility and enduring appeal. Alongside his wife, Jeanette Collins, Peter Onorati represents a refreshing example of a successful Hollywood couple who have managed to balance demanding careers with strong family values. His insights on career, relationships, and personal growth offer valuable lessons, proving that even in the often-unrealistic world of Hollywood, authenticity and a grounded approach can lead to lasting success and fulfillment.
