Who Is Nehemiah Persoff? Age, Biography and Wiki
As of 2025, Nehemiah Persoff would have celebrated his 106th birthday if he were still with us. Born into a Jewish family in Jerusalem, he immigrated to the United States in 1920. His illustrious acting career began in the 1940s, and he quickly became known for his versatile roles, from intense drama to comedic performances. Persoff's work in classics like "The Twilight Zone," "The Wild Bunch," and "Yentl" showcased his depth as an actor. In addition to acting, he was a talented painter, pursuing his passion for visual arts throughout his life.
| Occupation | Voice Actors |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | August 2, 1919 |
| Age | 102 Years |
| Birth Place | Jerusalem, Israel |
| Horoscope | Leo |
| Country | Israel |
| Date of death | 5 April, 2022 |
| Died Place | San Luis Obispo, California, United States |
Popularity
Nehemiah Persoff's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Nehemiah Persoff stood at approximately 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm) tall. His weight fluctuated throughout his career, averaging around 160 pounds (73 kg) during his prime. Although exact measurements are not widely available, his strong presence and commanding stage demeanor contributed significantly to his on-screen persona.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Throughout his life, Persoff maintained a strong focus on family. He was married to his beloved wife, Thia Persoff, for over 60 years until her passing. The couple’s enduring love story is often highlighted in discussions about his life. While there are no public records of any significant romantic relationships post-Thia, it is clear that his family, including his children and grandchildren, remained central to his life.
His father, Shmuel, was a silversmith, jeweler, and art teacher born in Chernihiv, Russian Empire (now Ukraine). His mother, Puah, was a Palestinian Jew. His father decided that there were better prospects for him and his family in the United States and in 1923 immigrated on his own.
By 1929, he had become financially secure in New York City and sponsored the immigration of his wife and three sons (Boaz, Avraham, and Nehemiah himself) and two daughters (Tamar and Geula). At first, the family lived in an apartment in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, before eventually moving to The Bronx. The family spoke Yiddish and Hebrew at home.
Persoff's parents later returned to Israel.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing in 2022, Nehemiah Persoff's net worth was estimated to be around $4 million. His earnings came not only from his prolific acting career but also from his ventures in painting and various investments. Known for his frugality and wise financial decisions, Persoff accumulated wealth while also giving back to his community through art and charitable endeavors.
Career, Business and Investments
Persoff's career began on stage, later transitioning to film and television, where he gained prominence through a diverse range of characters. In addition to acting, he pursued a career in painting, often depicting landscapes and portraits that showcased his artistic talent. Nehemiah also explored investments in real estate, which further contributed to his financial success. With roles in successful productions and his endeavors in the arts, Persoff left a multifaceted legacy behind.
Nehemiah Persoff (August 2, 1919 – April 5, 2022) was an American actor and painter. He appeared in more than 200 television series, films, and theatre productions, and also performed as a voice artist in a career spanning 55 years.
Social Network
Though known for keeping a low profile, Persoff engaged with fans and art lovers through various platforms. Prior to his passing, he occasionally shared insights about his life and career through interviews and public appearances. While he did not have active social media accounts, loyal fans often celebrated his legacy online, keeping the conversation alive about his significant contributions to the performing arts.
His first acting role was as an extra in The Naked City (1948).
Persoff is best known for roles as Leo in The Harder They Fall (1956), as Little Bonaparte in Some Like It Hot (1959), as Jake "Greasy Thumb" Guzik in The Untouchables (1959–1963), as Rebbe Mendel in Yentl (1983), and as the voice of Papa Mousekewitz in the animated film An American Tail (1986) and its sequels.
He also made appearances on episodes of The Twilight Zone, Gilligan's Island, Hawaii Five-O, Adam-12, and Law & Order.
Education
Nehemiah Persoff's education began in traditional schools, where he developed a love for the arts. He later attended the City College of New York and honed his craft at various acting workshops over the years. The skills he acquired through formal education and real-world experience greatly influenced his performances across different roles.
In summary, Nehemiah Persoff’s life encapsulated the journey of an immigrant who rose to prominence through talent, hard work, and perseverance. His legacy as an actor, painter, and loving family man endures, leaving an inspiring narrative for future generations.
