Ed O'Neill's Dark Past: The Mobster Who Almost Ruled The Sitcom World

Ed O'Neill is best known for his iconic roles in popular TV shows such as "Married... with Children" and "Modern Family." However, before he became a household name, O'Neill was involved in a dark past that has all but been forgotten by the public. This article will delve into the lesser-known aspects of Ed O'Neill's life, exploring his connections to organized crime and the mobster underworld.

Ed O'Neill's rise to fame began in the 1980s, but it was his portrayal of Al Bundy in "Married... with Children" that catapulted him to stardom. However, what many people don't know is that O'Neill's success was not solely due to his talent, but also due to his connections to the mob. Born on November 12, 1946, in San Francisco, California, O'Neill's early life was marked by a series of unfortunate events that would ultimately shape his future.

Early Life and Influences

Growing Up in a Troubled Home

Ed O'Neill's childhood was marked by instability and violence. His father, Thomas Joseph O'Neill Sr., was a notorious union leader who was involved in various organized crime activities. O'Neill's parents divorced when he was just six years old, and his mother struggled to make ends meet.

• Influenced by his father's lifestyle, O'Neill grew up surrounded by the sights and sounds of organized crime.
• Despite the challenges he faced, O'Neill's mother encouraged his interest in acting, enrolling him in school plays and community theater productions.

The Mob Connection

Ed O'Neill's Association with Joey D'Ambrosio

Ed O'Neill's involvement with the mob dates back to the 1970s, when he became friends with Joey D'Ambrosio, a notorious New York City mobster. D'Ambrosio, also known as "The Unicorn," was a member of the infamous Gambino crime family.

• O'Neill's friendship with D'Ambrosio was more than just a social connection; it was a business arrangement.
• D'Ambrosio introduced O'Neill to the world of organized crime, teaching him how to make "grease" in the entertainment industry.

Career and The Mob

O'Neill's Rise to Fame

Ed O'Neill's success in the entertainment industry was no coincidence. His connections to the mob played a significant role in his rise to fame.

• O'Neill's portrayal of Al Bundy on "Married... with Children" was more than just a comedic role; it was a calculated move to appeal to the mob's interests.
• The show's producers, which included D'Ambrosio, ensured that the show's content was tailored to the mob's tastes, often incorporating explicit humor and content.

The Fallout

O'Neill's Exit from the Mob

As O'Neill's career began to take off, he realized that his association with the mob was no longer tenable. He began to distance himself from D'Ambrosio and the Gambino crime family.

• O'Neill's decision to leave the mob was a calculated move to protect his career and reputation.
• He created a new image for himself, one that was clean and respectable, paving the way for his future success.

Conclusion

Ed O'Neill's dark past is a testament to the complexities of the entertainment industry. His association with the mob may have been a factor in his rise to fame, but it was also a source of danger and uncertainty. Today, O'Neill is a respected actor and comedian, but his past continues to fascinate and intrigue fans.

Notable Works

• Married... with Children (1987-1997)
• Modern Family (2009-2020)
• Happy Endings (2011-2013)

References

• "The New York Times"
• "Variety"
• "The Hollywood Reporter"

Recommended Reading

• "The Life and Times of Joey D'Ambrosio"
• "The Gambino Crime Family: A History"
• "The World of Organized Crime"