Michael Bernardi, his son with Teri, is also an actor.
As a child, acted in Yiddish theatre with his parents Berel and Laina Bernardi.
Blacklisted by Hollywood in the early '50s for alleged communist ties.
He was the "Ho-Ho-Ho" voice of the "Jolly Green Giant" in commercials.
He was the voice of "Charley" the Starkist Tuna in the commercials.
His brother Jack Bernardi was also an actor.
Was twice nominated for Broadway's Tony Award as Best Actor (Musical): in 1969 for "Zorba: and in 1982 for a revival of "Fiddler on the Roof."