The real "Goodfellas guy" is Henry Hill, an American mob associate whose life story formed the basis for Nicholas Pileggi's non-fiction book Wiseguy: Life in a Mafia Family and subsequently, Martin Scorsese's iconic 1990 film Goodfellas.
Henry Hill's Life and Criminal Background
Henry Hill's early life in New York saw him drawn into the world of organized crime. He became closely associated with the Lucchese crime family, participating in various illicit activities over several decades. His involvement spanned from minor rackets to significant heists, painting a vivid picture of the day-to-day operations and brutal realities of the Mafia.
Here's a summary of key details regarding his criminal life:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Allegiance | Lucchese crime family |
| Conviction(s) | Extortion (1972), Attempted methamphetamine possession (2005) |
| Criminal Penalty | 10 years' imprisonment, 180 days' imprisonment |
| Accomplice(s) | Lisa Caserta (2006–2012; engaged) |
Hill's eventual downfall came when he was arrested on drug charges. Faced with a lengthy prison sentence and fearing for his life from his former associates, he turned informant for the FBI in 1980. His testimony led to more than 50 convictions, including those of high-ranking mob figures Paul Vario (known as "Paulie Cicero" in the film) and James Burke ("Jimmy Conway").
From Wiseguy to Goodfellas
Hill's detailed accounts of his life within the Mafia were chronicled by journalist Nicholas Pileggi in the 1985 book Wiseguy. This book provided an unparalleled inside look into the mob's operations, its intricate hierarchy, brutal violence, and the bizarre humor that often accompanied its members' lives.
Director Martin Scorsese, captivated by the raw authenticity of Wiseguy, adapted it into Goodfellas. The film starred Ray Liotta as Henry Hill, Robert De Niro as Jimmy Conway (James Burke), and Joe Pesci as Tommy DeVito (Thomas DeSimone), all delivering memorable and critically acclaimed performances. The movie vividly depicted Hill's rise and fall, his relationships with mobsters, and the stark reality of life under the Lucchese crime family's influence, cementing its place as one of the greatest gangster films ever made.
Life After the Mob
After becoming an informant, Henry Hill and his family entered the Witness Protection Program. However, his struggle to adapt to a normal life, coupled with his continued involvement in various small-time crimes and drug use, led to his expulsion from the program multiple times. Despite his tumultuous post-mob life, Hill often capitalized on his notoriety, appearing in documentaries, giving interviews, and even having a brief career in the food industry. He passed away in 2012 at the age of 69.
For more information on Henry Hill, you can visit his Wikipedia page.
