The film industry is mourning the loss of Spencer Lofranco, the Canadian actor recognised for his roles in Jamesy Boy and Gotti, who has died at the age of 33.
A Brother's Heartfelt Tribute
Lofranco's brother, Santino, confirmed the tragic news on Instagram, revealing that the actor passed away on Tuesday, November 18, 2025. In an emotional post, Santino remembered his younger brother as a 'legend' who 'changed people's lives'. Sharing childhood photos, he wrote: 'To the legend @roccowinning. My brother. You lived a life only some could dream of. You changed people's lives, and now you are with God. I will always love you and miss you Bear. RIP.'
According to reports from TMZ, his death is currently under investigation in British Columbia. A cause of death has not yet been determined by authorities.
From Class Clown to Silver Screen
Lofranco's path to acting seemed a natural fit for the self-described funny teenager who loved cracking jokes and being the 'centre of attention'. Born in Toronto, Ontario, on October 18, 1992, he was the son of lawyer Rocco Lofranco and opera singer Amy Lofranco.
Despite his father's hopes for him to pursue a career in law or hockey, Lofranco followed his own passion. He attended summer acting classes and later spent a year at the New York Film Academy. It was during this time that he landed his breakthrough role in the 2014 indie film Jamesy Boy.
In a 2014 interview, Lofranco reflected on his connection to the character of James Burns, a working-class youth who spent his formative years in and out of detention centres, noting that he 'understood' the complex character he was portraying.
A Promising Career Cut Short
Over the course of his career, Spencer Lofranco appeared in a total of seven films. His filmography includes the romantic comedy At Middleton (2013), Angelina Jolie's war drama Unbroken (2014), the short film Home (2015), and the crime biopic Gotti (2018), where he played the on-screen son of John Travolta's character.
Gotti in 2018 marked his final film appearance. He had not starred in a project since.
Reflecting on his childhood, Lofranco had previously spoken fondly of accompanying his mother to auditions. He also credited his father for 'sort of saving' him during his younger years. His parents divorced during his childhood, and he grew up in Thornhill, Ontario, with his older brother Santino.
The investigation into his untimely death continues as friends, family, and fans remember a talent gone too soon.
