- Dorothy Ann Puzo, one of five children, was the only director/writer daughter of Mario Puzo. Born in New York, she moved to San Francisco to train with Method instructor Jean Shelton. Shelton's school has had an array of talent through the years. Actors: i.e. Danny Glover, Joe Spano, Wendy Phillips, Charles Bouvier, Eva-Marie Fredric, Scott Paulin & blacklisted actor Wendell K. Phillips.
Puzo's directorial debut was an AFI funded feature, "Cold Steel" that help kick off Sharon Stone's career. Other notables in the film were Brad Davis (Midnight Express), Anthony LaPaglia & Adam Ant.
Dorothy was incredibly close to her father, Mario and grew up visiting sets with Al Pacino, DeNiro, Brando and the rest of the "Godfather" cast. Her writing and directing skills were guided by her loving father's eyes and ears. Although her career was hampered by her size and gender, her talent and incredible heart have always persevered.
Deeply saddened by her father's death, Puzo left her Studio City condo of many years to return to the East Coast. Many await this gifted woman's work to be resurrected and credit given where she's due. She was a forerunner for many female writers & directors who went on in successful careers. Weight, unfortunately, hampered Dorothy's ability to attain the goals she set.
- IMDb mini biography by: 4thK
- Daughter of Mario Puzo
- Frequently helped actor friends prepare for auditions. Her years of training as both actor/director at Jean Shelton's Acting School in San Francisco before relocating to her Studio City Condo, polished her already seasoned eyes.
- Frequently gifted her friends with autographed copies of her father's books.
- Accepted the Oscar in behalf of her father, Mario Puzo, when he couldn't make the Academy Awards ceremony for "The Godfather.".
- Dorothy was well respected for her acting abilities both at Jean Shelton's school and in LA with the actor-friends she coached. Her close relationship with her father proved her to be a fine student. She is sorely missed by the many who love her in Los Angeles and would love to see her work again, as a director.
Contribute to this page
Suggest an edit or add missing content
