Developed rhuematic fever when he was 14 which left him with a weakened heart

Performed in cabarets as part of comedy trio La Smorfia

First feature as actor and director "Ricomincio da Tre"

Formed production company Esterno Mediterraneo with Gaetano Daniele

Had heart surgery in Houston, TX; doctors had recommended a heart transplant

Made final film "The Postman (Il Postino)"; died in his sleep twelve hours after completing the film

Received posthumous Oscar nomination for Best Actor for "The Postman (Il Postino)"