Angelo Rossitto

Biography

Angelo Salvatore Rossitto (February 18, 1908 – September 21, 1991) was a distinguished American actor and voice artist recognized for his unique stature due to dwarfism, standing at just 2'11" (89 cm). He often went by the nicknames Little Angie or Moe. Rossitto's cinematic journey began in the silent film era, where he shared the screen with legendary actors like Lon Chaney and John Barrymore. Throughout his prolific career, he showcased his versatility by portraying a variety of characters including dwarfs, gnomes, monsters, and even aliens, amassing over 70 film credits.

Born in Omaha, Nebraska, to Italian immigrants Salvatore Rossitto and Carmela Caniglia, Angelo grew up with his sister Josephine. He made a significant entry into the film industry when he was discovered by John Barrymore, debuting in The Beloved Rogue (1927), followed by a role in Warner Bros.' Old San Francisco the same year. His notable works include the controversial 1932 film Freaks directed by Tod Browning, and the 1938 film Child Bride. The 1940s saw him in several low-budget films featuring Bela Lugosi. On television, he gained recognition in the police drama Baretta and later appeared in films such as Alex in Wonderland (1970) and Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome (1985), where he played the character "Master."

Rossitto's legacy extended beyond film; he graced the covers of Tom Waits' Swordfishtrombones and Bob Dylan's The Basement Tapes, celebrating his impactful role in the arts.