Frank DiLeo, the cigar-toting music industry executive behind Michael Jackson’s 1980s career, died Wednesday at his home in eastern Ohio due to complications with a long illness. He was 63.
The Epic Records veteran was responsible for the careers of artists such as the Clash and Cyndi Lauper, as well as working with Jackson again in the final years of the singer’s life.
He also appeared in Martin Scorsese’s classic "Goodfellas" as mobster Joe Pesci’s murderer.
The executive producer for Jackson’s 1988 "Moonwalker" film, DiLeo also managed the singer's Bad World Tour — one of the highest grossing tours of all time.
The pair parted in 1989 but were brought together again when Dileo supported Jackson through his child molestation trial and subsequent acquittal.
He is survived by his wife, Linda.
