The Canadian entertainment industry is mourning the loss of Toronto-born actor Spencer Lofranco, who passed away at the age of 33. The news was confirmed by his brother Santino through an emotional Instagram tribute posted on November 21, 2025.
Rising Star from Toronto
Lofranco was best known for his role as John Gotti Jr. opposite John Travolta in the 2018 biopic Gotti, where he played the crime boss's son. His performance showcased his ability to handle complex characters alongside Hollywood heavyweights.
Before his breakthrough in Gotti, Lofranco made his mark in Angelina Jolie's 2014 Second World War drama Unbroken. The Toronto native had expressed excitement about working with Jolie, telling Interview magazine that "Angelina Jolie was my dream girl" and that the opportunity felt surreal.
Early Success and Career Beginnings
Lofranco's acting career began remarkably when he landed his first-ever audition for the lead role in the 2014 prison drama Jamesy Boy. The film featured an impressive cast including James Woods, Mary-Louise Parker, Ving Rhames, and Taissa Farmiga.
In his interview with the magazine, Lofranco explained why he connected so deeply with the character: "I was playing a character that I understood. James and I have similar pasts, and we've gone through similar experiences growing up."
The young actor revealed that he decided to pursue acting at 17, describing himself as naturally funny and always trying to make people laugh. He took summer acting classes and spent a year studying at the New York Film Academy before his big break.
Family Tribute and Investigation
Lofranco's brother Santino shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, calling his sibling "a legend" who "lived a life only some could dream of." The emotional post continued: "You changed people's lives, and now you are with God. I will always love you and miss you Bear. RIP. October 18, 1992 – November 18, 2025."
According to reports from TMZ, Lofranco's death is currently under investigation in British Columbia. The circumstances surrounding his passing have not been officially disclosed.
In his final Instagram post earlier this month, Lofranco told his more than 4,500 followers that "the best is yet to come," leaving fans and colleagues shocked by his sudden passing.
Legacy and Unfulfilled Dreams
Lofranco's filmography includes several notable projects beyond his most famous roles. He appeared in 2013's At Middleton, 2015's Dixieland and Home, as well as 2016's King Cobra. Gotti marked his final onscreen role.
The actor had clear aspirations for his career, telling Interview magazine that he wanted to "do real-life, candid films" and be wise about his project choices. He cited Sean Penn, Leonardo DiCaprio, and River Phoenix as actors whose career paths he admired.
Interestingly, Lofranco revealed that if he hadn't pursued acting, he would have devoted his life to humanitarian work. "If I weren't an actor, I would probably move to Africa and help support the effort over there; help the kids that are in need and do my best to give my love to the unfortunate," he said.
Fans and colleagues have been sharing their condolences on social media, with one person writing: "Rest in peace sweet boy. I'll forever cherish our hours of talks about how important art is to this world and the things you were gonna do with your creations." Another described him as "a true performer/entertainer" who "really loved life."
The Canadian film industry has lost one of its promising talents, and Spencer Lofranco's contributions to cinema will be remembered by colleagues and fans alike.
