Always searching for tidbits on Virginia City, this popped up on the news wire, and it looked like fun to write about as a vague footnote in the Comstock town’s lengthy history.
Henry Hill, who, in the wake of Martin Scorsese’s mob drama Goodfellas, had another life beyond the silver screen. Based on the book “Wiseguy” by Nicholas Pileggi, the movie was released on Monday, September 17, 1990.
When Hill’s mob days ended in 1980, the film shows Hill’s character, played by Ray Liotta, entering the Witness Protection Program. After seven years, the federal agency forced Hill to leave the program following a Seattle drug arrest.
Separating from his first wife Karen in 1989, he entered into an affair with Sherry Anders, culminating in a marriage in Virginia City while still legally married. Post-divorce from Karen and Sherry, Hill wed Kelly Alor and then became engaged to Lisa Caserta, whom he remained with until his 2012 demise.
Embracing the moniker Martin Lewis, Hill entered the culinary arena.
“The Wiseguy Cookbook” emerged, blending family recipes and anecdotes. Radio and TV appearances, including The Howard Stern Show and 60 Minutes, showcase Hill’s insights into mob life and Scorsese’s films.
Henry Hill’s tumultuous journey concluded with his Tuesday, June 12, 2012, death at 69. Complications from long-term heart disease, intensified by chronic smoking, lead to a peaceful passing.
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