Mira Sorvino’s Son Experiences Grandpa Paul’s Iconic Role in Goodfellas
Mira Sorvino’s son recently experienced one of her father’s classic performances in Goodfellas. Sorvino, 57, and her husband, actor Christopher Backus, 43, shared this exciting news during an exclusive interview with PEOPLE while promoting their latest project, Daft State.
Backus noted that their 18-year-old son, Johnny, is now old enough to watch this film, stating, "He’s playing baseball at Michigan, so he’s adult enough." Johnny viewed the film alongside one of his teammates. After watching, he expressed disbelief about seeing his grandfather on screen, saying, "I can't believe that's my grandpa."
Paul Sorvino, who passed away in 2022 at 83, portrayed mobster Paul "Paulie" Cicero in the 1990 classic directed by Martin Scorsese. He starred alongside notable actors like Robert DeNiro, Joe Pesci, and Ray Liotta.
Past Films Featuring Paul Sorvino
Interestingly, Goodfellas wasn't the first film Johnny had seen starring his grandfather. Backus shared one film the family enjoyed together before Paul Sorvino's passing: Santa Baby 2: Christmas Maybe. "My kids used to love his movie, in which he plays Santa Claus," he mentioned. This made-for-TV film featured Jenna McCarthy as Santa’s daughter, deciding whether to carry on with the family tradition.
Mira Sorvino contributed to this family tradition as well. She referred to her role in Finding Mrs. Claus, noting how Paul Sorvino created a legacy as Santa. Sorvino explained she chose this project after noticing how much joy the kids experienced watching their grandpa portray Santa. "They couldn’t watch my other films because they were rated R," she added, solidifying her reason for participation in this more family-friendly film. "I love it. It's a very sweet Christmas movie, and it's on Lifetime every year," she noted.
Maintaining Relationship Dynamics Amid Parenting
During the interview, the couple also discussed how they preserve their relationship while keeping up with their professional lives and parenting. "As working actors, we try and have the three-week rule," Sorvino stated. This guideline ensures they remain together or visit during work obligations lasting longer than three weeks.
Backus emphasized how significant date nights are in their routine. He mentioned that especially when the children are younger, it can be challenging to maintain these special evenings. "We make an effort to prioritize our nights together," he explained. These moments allow the couple to reconnect as "young, fun, happy, free people" before returning to their family life.
Their latest collaborative work, Daft State, showcases serious themes centered around destruction impacting one's sanity. The film's synopsis hints at the emotional trials faced by the characters, particularly Easton, played by Backus, as he navigates the effects of his struggles on those he loves most, including his wife and daughter.