Joe Manganiello stars alongside Vince Vaughn and a stellar lineup of renowned Italian-American actresses in the upcoming Netflix dramedy “Nonnas,” set to premiere on May 9. Directed by Stephen Chbosky, the film tells the inspiring true story of the creation of Enoteca Maria, a celebrated Italian restaurant located on Staten Island.
For Manganiello, who has Sicilian roots, this role presents a unique opportunity to honor his Italian heritage. He portrays Bruno, the supportive best friend of Jody “Joe” Scaravella (played by Vaughn), who, after the passing of his mother, turns to traditional Italian recipes that were passed down through generations. In a heartfelt tribute to his family, Joe uses his inheritance to open Enoteca Maria, uniquely staffing it with local grandmothers, or “nonnas,” as chefs.
Manganiello shares that this role allows him to connect with his ancestry, which he has often felt disconnected from due to his mixed background. At 6’5″, he humorously notes the height difference when compared to other Italians, attributing this to his Croatian and German heritage. The film captures nuanced aspects of Italian culture, which Manganiello feels resonate deeply within him.
Among the highlights of the film is the relationship between Bruno and his wife Stella, portrayed by Drea de Matteo from “The Sopranos.” Manganiello reflects on how the script beautifully portrays the loving yet playful bickering characteristic of Italian couples, emphasizing the emotional depth of the story.
In a personal milestone, Manganiello acquired Italian citizenship in 2022, a process that involved tracking his family history through his grandmother. With dreams of living in Italy, he believes that holding an Italian passport would facilitate that journey.
The film also features a “murderer’s row” of iconic actresses, including Lorraine Bracco, Talia Shire, Brenda Vaccaro, and Susan Sarandon, who bring their culinary talents to life on screen. Sharing meals together, including at the authentic Enoteca Maria, created a strong bond among the cast. Manganiello expresses his enjoyment in exchanging stories with these legendary actresses, making for unforgettable Hollywood moments.
“Nonnas” is set to bring a rich and heartfelt exploration of family, food, and cultural heritage to audiences on Netflix. With a blend of humor and emotional storytelling, it promises to resonate with everyone, making it a highly anticipated film.
The film’s release is a testament to the rich tapestry of Italian-American culture and the importance of family, tradition, and community in shaping our lives.