Joseph Francis Mazzello III

Joseph Mazzello

Joseph Mazzello is an American actor, recognized for his diverse European and Jewish heritage. He started his acting journey from a young age, venturing into directing and writing scripts, and also took on the role of executive producer for a couple of projects. His most notable performances include his work in the films “Jurassic Park,” “The Cure,” “Simon Birch,” “Bohemian Rhapsody,” and in the television series “The Pacific.”

What we know about this person

Full name:

Joseph Francis Mazzello III

Date of birth:

September 21, 1983

Zodiac sign:

Virgo

Birthplace:

Rhinebeck, New York, USA

Age:

41

Citizenship:

USA

Marital status:

Unmarried

Height:

5' 9" (1.75 m)

Occupation:

actor, director, film producer, screenwriter

Early life

Born on September 21, 1983, in the quaint town of Rhinebeck in Dutchess County, New York, Joseph Francis Mazzello III was raised in the town of Hyde Park. The Mazzello household, run by Virginia Strong and Joseph Mazzello Jr., was a nurturing environment for creativity, thanks to their dance studio business. Joseph spent his childhood alongside his elder sister Maria and younger brother John, cultivating a keen interest in the performing arts early on.

Joseph’s foray into the world of acting began during his educational years, making his first appearance in the cinematic world with a minor role in “Presumed Innocent.” This 1990 film featured heavyweights like Harrison Ford, Raul Julia, and Brian Dennehy. His acting caught the eye of none other than Steven Spielberg, who played a pivotal role in setting the trajectory for Joseph’s future career in the entertainment industry.

The Mazzello siblings were educated at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School for their high school education. Joseph later pursued higher education at the University of Southern California, studying at the prestigious USC School of Cinematic Arts, a feat made possible through a recommendation from Spielberg himself. Post-graduation, Joseph continued to make significant strides in his acting career, solidifying his presence in Hollywood.

joseph-mazzello-in-jurassic-park

Joseph Mazzello in Jurassic Park

Career

Joseph Mazzello embarked on his acting journey on television at the dawn of the 1990s, quickly establishing himself as a formidable talent in “Presumed Innocent.” His performances were mature beyond his years, captivating the industry’s veterans and holding his own among well-established stars. His subsequent role in “Radio Flyer,” alongside notable actors such as John Heard, Lorraine Bracco, and Adam Baldwin, further solidified his place in the acting world.

By 1992, Mazzello made his mark in the comedic drama “Jersey Girl,” acting alongside Sheryl Lee, Dylan McDermott, and Jami Gertz. He also took part in the poignant TV drama “Desperate Choices: To Save My Child,” featuring Joanna Kerns and Bruce Davison. Throughout his school years, Joseph balanced his education with auditions, gradually attracting more significant attention and more roles.

A pivotal moment in Mazzello’s career came with his introduction to Steven Spielberg, who was deeply impressed by the young actor’s talent. Although Mazzello was considered too young for a role in “Hook,” Spielberg kept him in mind and later crafted a role specifically for him in “Jurassic Park,” the 1993 blockbuster that turned Mazzello into a household name for his portrayal of Tim.

Working on Spielberg’s blockbuster offered Mazzello the invaluable opportunity to share the set with Sam Neill, Laura Dern, and Jeff Goldblum. Following the film’s release, Mazzello found himself in the spotlight, flooded with acting opportunities. He had the luxury of choosing projects that interested him, eventually reprising his role as Tim in a brief appearance in “The Lost World: Jurassic Park.”

Mazzello’s career trajectory continued upward as he featured in a series of successful projects. Audiences saw him in “The Cure” with Brad Renfro and Annabella Sciorra and “Simon Birch” alongside Ashley Judd and Oliver Platt. Transitioning into adulthood, Mazzello worked under the direction of David Fincher in “The Social Network,” sharing the screen with Jesse Eisenberg, Justin Timberlake, and Andrew Garfield, demonstrating his versatility and continued appeal in Hollywood.

joseph-mazzello-in-the-pacific

Joseph Mazzello in The Pacific

Joseph Francis Mazzello III Movies and TV Shows

  • 2018

    Bohemian Rhapsody

    John Deacon

  • 2016–2021

    Impeachment: American Crime Story

    Paul Begala

  • 2013

    G.I. Joe: Retaliation

    Mouse

  • 2012–2019

    Elementary (episode “A Study in Charlotte”)

    Griffin

  • 2011–2016

    Person of Interest

    Daniel Casey

  • 2010

    The Pacific

    Eugene Sledge

  • 2010

    The Social Network

    Dustin Moskovitz

  • 2000–2015

    CSI: Crime Scene Investigation (episode “One Hit Wonder”)

    Justin Lamond

  • 1997

    The Lost World: Jurassic Park

    Tim Murphy

  • 1993

    Jurassic Park

    Tim Murphy

Joseph Mazzello’s personal life and family

Joseph Mazzello’s personal life remains largely out of the spotlight, as he is not involved in any romantic relationships at present. He has yet to tie the knot or start a family. While there have been speculations about his connections with fellow celebrities, Mazzello maintains a discreet stance on matters of the heart. At this stage in his life, Mazzello is deeply engrossed in his acting pursuits, dedicating the majority of his energy to his craft. Nevertheless, he harbors aspirations for a future filled with family warmth and a sprawling home in the countryside.

joseph-mazzello-as-john-deacon-in-bohemian-rapsody

Joseph Mazzello as John Deacon in Bohemian Rapsody

Joseph Mazzello now

As for his current endeavors, Joseph Mazzello continues to forge ahead in his career without dwelling on past achievements. He’s showcased his talent in “Bohemian Rhapsody,” sharing the screen with Rami Malek, and has participated in “Impeachment: American Crime Story.” Mazzello has also explored the realms of directing and scriptwriting, contributing as a producer to a couple of short films. In the year 2023, he graced the silver screen in “Unexpected,” performing alongside Anna Camp and Neal Flynn.

Published: April 16, 2024
Updated: December 9, 2024
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