Don Calfa, a seasoned actor with a career spanning over 40 years, is most notably recognized for his portrayal of "Ernie Kaltenbrunner" in the 1985 comedy horror film, The Return of the Living Dead.
Born in Brooklyn, New York, and raised in Ozone Park, Queens, and later West Hempstead, Long Island, Calfa's initial interest lay in the fine arts. However, after being inspired by films such as Rebel Without a Cause (1955) and Vertigo (1958),he developed a passion for acting.
After dropping out of high school to study at Erwin Piscator's "The Dramatic Workshop," Calfa completed his degree in night school and spent two years in summer stock, which enabled him to join Actors Equity and obtain his SAG card.
Throughout his illustrious career, Calfa has shared the screen with some of cinema's most iconic stars, including Warren Beatty in Bugsy (1991),Michael Douglas in The Star Chamber (1983),and Jack Nicholson in The Postman Always Rings Twice (1981),among many others.
Some of his most memorable roles include 'Mr. Pitts' on the TV series Beverly Hills, 90210 (1990),'Ralph Wilum' in Chopper Chicks in Zombietown (1989),'Paulie' in Weekend at Bernie's (1989),and 'Scarface' in Foul Play (1978).
Calfa's stage work is equally impressive, with extensive off-off-Broadway credits and a Broadway appearance in "Lenny."
In addition to his work in the film industry, Calfa can often be found attending conventions in the USA, where he meets and greets fans alongside his friend, Beverly Randolph, whom he met on the set of The Return of the Living Dead (1985).
Furthermore, Calfa, along with the rest of the cast, recorded a cast commentary for a new special edition release of The Return of the Living Dead, a testament to his enduring connection with the film and its fans.
