**Gaetano "Tommy" DeVito (1928-2020)** was an American musician and actor, best known as a founding member, vocalist, and lead guitarist of the iconic rock band the Four Seasons. Born on June 19, 1928, in Belleville, New Jersey, to an Italian-American family, DeVito taught himself to play the guitar at a young age and began performing in local taverns by the time he was 12[2].
DeVito's musical career with the Four Seasons was marked by significant success, including hits like "Sherry," "Big Girls Don't Cry," and "Walk Like a Man." He also pursued an acting career, appearing in films such as *Casino* (1995), *Gone Fishin'* (1997), and *The Good Shepherd* (2006)[1][2]. His acting career was amateur and intermittent, with these roles being notable for their novelty rather than his professional pursuit of acting.
Tommy DeVito passed away on September 21, 2020, in Henderson, Nevada, due to complications from COVID-19[2]. His legacy continues to be celebrated through the enduring popularity of the Four Seasons and the musical *Jersey Boys*, which tells the story of the band's rise to fame[6].
In recent years, the name "Tommy DeVito" has also become associated with a different individual — a young NFL quarterback playing for the New York Giants. This Tommy DeVito, often referred to as "Passing Paisano," has gained popularity for his performances and connection to the Italian-American community[5]. Despite sharing the same name, the two Tommy DeVitos are unrelated.
The musical legacy of the original Tommy DeVito remains significant, with ongoing productions of *Jersey Boys* continuing to entertain audiences worldwide[6]. His contributions to the music industry and his brief forays into acting have left a lasting impact on popular culture.