Danny Pintauro, American actor

Danny Pintauro, born on January 6, 1976, is an accomplished American actor and a noted film producer whose career has spanned several decades, moving from a prominent child star to an adult performer and advocate. He is widely recognized for his significant roles in two distinct yet equally impactful productions from the 1980s: the hugely popular family sitcom Who's the Boss? and the chilling horror classic Cujo.

Notable Career Highlights and Iconic Roles

Pintauro began his acting career at a young age, quickly establishing himself as a recognizable face in American households. His early success showcased his versatility across different genres.

Breakout Role in Who's the Boss?

One of Pintauro's most enduring contributions to television was his role as Jonathan Bower in the beloved ABC sitcom Who's the Boss?. Premiering in 1984, the series captivated audiences for eight highly successful seasons, concluding in 1992. As Jonathan, the youngest child of Judith Light's character Angela Bower, Pintauro's character evolved from a precocious boy to a thoughtful teenager, often serving as a foil or confidante to the show's lead, Tony Micelli (played by Tony Danza). The show was a cultural phenomenon of the 1980s, exploring gender roles and family dynamics with humor and warmth, and solidifying Pintauro's status as a household name.

Chilling Performance in Cujo

Prior to his sitcom fame, Pintauro delivered a memorable and intense performance in the 1983 horror film Cujo, based on Stephen King's terrifying novel of the same name. In the film, he portrayed Tad Trenton, a young boy trapped with his mother (Dee Wallace) inside a car by a rabid St. Bernard dog. Pintauro's portrayal of fear and vulnerability under extreme duress was critically acclaimed, demonstrating a remarkable emotional range for a child actor and cementing the film's reputation as a harrowing psychological thriller. The movie remains a significant entry in the horror genre and a testament to King's mastery of suspense.

Early Career and Other Appearances

Before and during his tenure on Who's the Boss?, Pintauro also appeared in other notable projects. From 1983 to 1984, he had a recurring role as Paul Ryan in the long-running CBS soap opera As the World Turns, further showcasing his early talent and work ethic in the demanding world of daytime television. These diverse roles highlight his early versatility and foundational impact on both film and television.

Beyond the Screen: Education, Advocacy, and Personal Journey

After his highly visible childhood acting career, Danny Pintauro intentionally stepped back from the limelight to pursue higher education, attending Stanford University where he graduated in 1998. This period allowed him to explore interests beyond acting and develop personally.

In more recent years, Pintauro has become a prominent voice for advocacy. In 2015, he publicly disclosed his HIV-positive status, choosing to share his journey as a means of reducing stigma and promoting awareness around HIV/AIDS. He has since been an outspoken advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and for greater understanding and education regarding the virus, utilizing his platform to foster dialogue and support. While his earlier career was defined by his acting, his later life has seen him embrace roles as a producer and, significantly, as a compassionate and impactful public health advocate.

Frequently Asked Questions About Danny Pintauro

When was Danny Pintauro born?

Danny Pintauro was born on January 6, 1976.

What was Danny Pintauro's role in Who's the Boss?

He played Jonathan Bower, the youngest child of Angela Bower, throughout the show's entire eight-season run from 1984 to 1992.

What character did Danny Pintauro portray in the film Cujo?

In the 1983 horror film Cujo, Danny Pintauro starred as Tad Trenton, the young boy trapped in a car with his mother by a rabid dog.

Has Danny Pintauro been involved in advocacy?

Yes, since publicly revealing his HIV-positive status in 2015, he has become a vocal advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness and reducing stigma, as well as a supporter of the LGBTQ+ community.