Tino Insana

Early Life

Silvio Peter "Tino" Insana was born on February 15, 1948, in Chicago, Illinois, to Silvio A. Insana, a musician, and Hiloray (née Swanson). Growing up in a musical family, Tino was likely influenced by his father's artistic background, which would later shape his own career in the entertainment industry.

Career

Insana's career began in earnest in 1971 when he co-founded the West Compass Trio, a local comedy troupe, alongside Steve Beshekas and John Belushi. The trio performed at universities across the Midwest, gaining recognition for their comedic talents. Insana's big break came when he and Belushi were hired by The Second City in Chicago, a renowned improvisational comedy club. After leaving Second City in 1975, he formed another comedy group, The Graduates, with fellow alumni Jim Staahl and Jim Fisher. This group made numerous television appearances and performed at various venues nationwide.

In 1977, Insana made his film debut in the comedy "Crackin' Up" and went on to write for popular television series such as "Police Squad!" and "Sledge Hammer!" He also produced and acted in projects like "Wedding Band" and "Masters of Menace." Insana's versatility extended to voice acting, where he lent his voice to characters in animated series, including Disney's "Darkwing Duck" and Nickelodeon's "Barnyard."

Legacy

Tino Insana's contributions to comedy and voice acting have left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. His work in both live-action and animated formats showcases his diverse talents and dedication to his craft. Insana's career spanned nearly five decades, from his early days in comedy troupes to his memorable roles in television and film, making him a beloved figure in American entertainment until his passing in 2017.