Tony Danza Crowned Italian-American of the Year

Tony Danza is a New York Italian-American of the Year.

The beloved actor and Malverne native was awarded the Italian-American of Distinction Award Monday by the New York State Council of Italian-American Legislators, reported The Legislative Gazette.

Danza and musician Liberty DeVitto were honored Monday during a ceremony in Albany under Italian colors and surrounded by New York legislators.

Danza is known for supporting his hometown, returning to guest bartend at Connolly Station last year to support the Malverne School District's trip to Frost Valley YMCA.

“I’m thrilled,” Danza told Newsday. "My father would be really proud of the Italian part, but also the American end of it."

“Looking at his background as an actor, entertainer, author and philanthropist, it’s really quite remarkable what he’s been able to accomplish,” New York State Assemb. Donna Lupardo told Newsday.