Ralph Foody

Ralph Wesley Foody was an iconic American character actor celebrated for his memorable roles in film and television. Born on September 15, 1928, he became a familiar face in the 1980s, but his most enduring legacy stems from his roles in the beloved holiday classic Home Alone (1990) and its sequel, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992). In these films, Foody portrayed "Johnny," a quintessential 1930s mobster, in the cleverly crafted black-and-white gangster spoofs, Angels with Filthy Souls and its follow-up, Angels with Even Filthier Souls. His notorious catchphrases, “Keep the change, ya filthy animal!” and “Merry Christmas, ya filthy animal, and a Happy New Year!” have since become pop culture staples.

Beyond his work in the Home Alone series, Foody showcased his talents as "Detective Cragie," a hard-drinking, negligent cop in Code of Silence, and featured as a police dispatcher in the classic comedy The Blues Brothers. Renowned for his sharp wit, he was affectionately nicknamed “The Witster” by his colleagues on set. Sadly, Ralph Foody passed away from cancer in 1999, leaving behind a legacy of unforgettable performances and a lasting impact on the world of film. He was 71 years old at the time of his passing.