Joe Pantoliano

Biography

Joseph Peter Pantoliano, affectionately known as "Joey Pants," is an American character actor who has portrayed some of the most memorable cynical, fast-talking figures in modern cinema. An Emmy winner for his role as Ralph Cifaretto in The Sopranos, he is also iconic for playing Cypher in The Matrix and Captain Conrad Howard in the Bad Boys franchise. In 2026, Pantoliano is experiencing a major career resurgence with back-to-back projects in high-profile franchises. He began the year with a role in the Marvel Spotlight series "Wonder Man" (premiered January 27, 2026, on Disney+). Starring alongside Yahya Abdul-Mateen II and Ben Kingsley, Pantoliano joins the MCU in a satirical look at Hollywood and superheroes, a fitting space for an actor with his deep industry roots. Later in the year, he is set to co-star in the holiday action sequel "Violent Night 2" (scheduled for December 4, 2026). Joining an ensemble that includes David Harbour, Kristen Bell, and Jared Harris, Pantoliano's casting was celebrated as a perfect addition to the film’s unique blend of grit and dark comedy. This follows his successful return in "Bad Boys: Ride or Die" (2024). Despite his character being killed off in the previous installment, he played a central role in the 2024 hit through video logs and dream sequences, driving the plot as the protagonists fought to clear his name. Off-screen, he remains a dedicated activist for mental health awareness through his non-profit organization, No Kidding, Me Too!.