Giovanni Ribisi Bio
Antonino Giovanni Ribisi (born December 17, 1974) is an American actor and cinematographer. He has appeared in the films That Thing You Do! (1996), Saving Private Ryan (1998), Gone in 60 Seconds (2000), and Avatar (2009). He is also recognized for his recurring roles on television series such as Friends and My Name Is Earl.
Early Life and Background
Giovanni Ribisi was born in Los Angeles, California, on December 17, 1974. He comes from a family with a rich artistic background; his father, Al Ribisi, was a musician, and his mother, Gay, managed actors and writers. Giovanni has a twin sister, Marissa Ribisi, who is also an actress, and an older sister, Gina Ribisi, who is a voice actress. Growing up in this environment, Ribisi was exposed to the entertainment industry from a young age, which likely influenced his decision to pursue acting as a career.
Path to Hollywood
Ribisi began acting at a young age, landing roles in television and film during the 1980s and 1990s. His early work included appearances in the sitcom My Two Dads and various films. He gained significant recognition for his role as the half-brother of Phoebe Buffay in the popular sitcom Friends, which aired from 1995 to 1998 and had a brief return in 2003. This role helped him transition into more substantial film roles and established him as a recognizable face in Hollywood.
Giovanni Ribisi Career
Early Career (1985–1995)
Giovanni Ribisi’s career began in 1985, and he quickly made a name for himself in the entertainment industry. His notable early works include appearances in television series and films that showcased his talent. Ribisi’s breakthrough came with his role in Friends, which opened doors for him in both television and film. He was nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series for his performance in My Name Is Earl, further solidifying his reputation as a talented actor.
Breakthrough (1996–2009)
Ribisi’s breakthrough film role came in 1996 with the release of That Thing You Do!, a musical comedy directed by Tom Hanks. This film marked the beginning of his successful film career. He followed this with a significant role in the critically acclaimed film Saving Private Ryan (1998), directed by Steven Spielberg. Ribisi continued to build his filmography with roles in Gone in 60 Seconds (2000) and Avatar (2009), which became one of the highest-grossing films of all time.
Notable Works and Milestones
Giovanni Ribisi is known for his signature roles in films such as Avatar and Saving Private Ryan. His performances have garnered attention and praise, contributing to his status as a respected actor in the industry. He has also starred in various television series, including Dads and Sneaky Pete, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Giovanni Ribisi Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Giovanni Ribisi has received several nominations for his performances, including a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for his guest role in My Name Is Earl.
Giovanni Ribisi Awards Won
While specific awards won are not detailed, Ribisi’s contributions to film and television have been recognized by audiences and critics alike, affirming his place in the entertainment industry.
Giovanni Ribisi Family
Giovanni Ribisi was married to actress Mariah O’Brien from 1997 to 2001, and they have one daughter, Lucia Santina Ribisi, born in 1997. He later married English model Agyness Deyn in 2012, but they divorced in 2015. Ribisi has two children, fraternal twins, born in 2018, with his current partner, Emily Ward.
Personal Life
Giovanni Ribisi has been in several high-profile relationships throughout his life. He was in a long-term relationship with indie rock singer-songwriter Cat Power from 2007 to 2012. He is currently in a relationship with Emily Ward, with whom he shares his fraternal twins. Ribisi is also known to be an active member of the Church of Scientology, participating in various events related to the organization.
