Born in the charming town of Savignano Irpino, situated in the picturesque region of Avellino, Carpentieri embarked on a journey of self-discovery, enrolling in the prestigious architecture program at the University of Naples. For a period of nine years, from 1965 to 1974, he was deeply involved in the organization and promotion of various cultural events, collaborating with the esteemed group Nuova Cultura.
In 1975, Carpentieri co-founded the renowned stage company Teatro dei Mutamenti, where he honed his skills as a director, actor, and playwright, making a lasting impact on the company until his departure in 1980.
After a hiatus of nearly two decades, Carpentieri made his film debut in 1990, at the ripe age of almost fifty, in Gianni Amelio's critically acclaimed "Porte aperte".
In 1993, his remarkable performance in Gabriele Salvatores' "Puerto Escondido" earned him a prestigious Nastro d'Argento award for best supporting actor.
Since 1995, Carpentieri has been the visionary artistic director of the esteemed Neapolitan stage company Libera Scena Ensemble, leaving an indelible mark on the world of theater.