Tony Danza Reflects on Memories with Frank Sinatra

Tony Danza still reminisces about that unforgettable night when Frank Sinatra raised his voice at him three decades ago.

“I was singing to him,” Danza shares about the 1995 tribute for Sinatra’s 80th birthday, sitting amidst memorabilia in his Upper West Side apartment.

At the time, he wasn’t really performing—save for the shower—but Sinatra seemed to enjoy it. “He was perched on these high steps, looking a bit unsteady, so I reached out to support him,” Danza recalls with a hint of nostalgia.

“He bellowed, ‘Back off! What’s your problem?'” Danza remembers, initially shocked. But Gilly Rizzo, Sinatra’s longtime friend, reassured him, saying, “Don’t worry, Tony. That’s just how Frank shows he likes you.”

Danza’s popular cabaret show, “Sinatra and the Story,” currently runs at Café Carlyle, offering plenty of nostalgic tales like this one.

His performances continue through October 2nd, keeping the audience engaged with stories of his friendship with Sinatra, alongside a lively four-piece band.

“I’m trying to recreate those classic variety shows where there’s a host and various acts,” he explained about his performance style. “In this, though, I’m the host and the featured acts all in one. It’s a bit of this and a bit of that.”

But why Sinatra as a theme? “They say you write what you know,” Danza says, reflecting on their deep connection.

You Make Me Feel Very Young

Before Danza became a household name on “Taxi” in 1978, he spent his childhood in Brooklyn where Sinatra’s music filled the air.

“My mom was a huge fan,” he told the Post. “Back in high school and college, I sang along to his records just like everyone else.”

After relocating to Long Island as a teenager, he turned his attention to boxing and secured a scholarship to a university in Iowa.

Training at Gleason’s gym, where Muhammad Ali once sparred, Danza found himself scouted for acting opportunities, which led to his connection to Sinatra.

“A few lucky breaks and suddenly I was in Frank’s world,” Danza recalls fondly. “It felt surreal.”

By then, Sinatra had transitioned into retirement but made a monumental comeback in 1974 with a boxing-themed concert at Madison Square Garden.

Please Fly with Me

Danza’s career matched Sinatra’s trajectory closely. Interestingly, Danza’s film debut in 1983 coincided with Sinatra’s last credits.

Initially, he was in awe of Sinatra, often addressing him as “Mr. Sinatra.” “It was hard to call him Frank,” he admits. “He had a presence that commanded respect.”

One evening, feeling a bit more confident, he approached Sinatra. “Um, Frank?” he ventured, to which Sinatra looked up and answered.

They soon found themselves sharing moments like old friends. Danza recalls a night by the pool where Sinatra enjoyed his favorite Jack Daniels while puffing on a cigarette.

Feeling bold, Danza asked, “Does smoking ruin your voice?” Sinatra shrugged, taking another drag. “I’ve never met a singer who’s worth his salt who didn’t smoke two packs a day,” he replied.

Frank is ‘Boss’

One of Danza’s most cherished memories is when he introduced his mother to Sinatra. This happened on the set of “Who’s the Boss?” in 1989, where Sinatra was a guest star and even gifted Danza a handkerchief.

The crew became accustomed to watching Danza’s character be unwittingly discarded by Sinatra’s relaxed persona.

Eventually, Danza got to share a drink with his idol. His character, Tony, asked, “How does it feel to be adored by millions?” to which Sinatra quipped, “Like…” with a casual nonchalance.

Although the cozy Café Carlyle can’t fit the masses, Danza’s latest act continues to draw adoration from fans.

Reflecting on his first gig at the venue, he remembers the short notice and how unbelievable it felt that people wanted to come see him perform.

“Sometimes I walk through the crowd and think, ‘Wow, they’re really here for me,’” he observes, still amazed by the support.

It Was a Very Good Year

Aside from celebrating his extensive career, Danza is dedicated to ongoing projects. He is involved with the Stars of Tomorrow Project, which offers mentorship and free lessons to youth.

“Sadly, I believe we’ve neglected our duty to guide the younger generation,” he reflects. “It’s vital to provide them with enriching activities.”

Alumni from the program have even made it to Broadway, which Danza proudly points out, as he prepares for an upcoming benefit event co-chaired with Danny DeVito.

Tony’s New York

When he’s not captivating audiences, Danza shares some of his favorite spots in the city.

Italian Restaurants in Patsy

Patsy’s, just off Columbus Circle, holds special significance for Danza and was a favorite of Sinatra’s as well. “I’ve known the family forever,” he says.

236 W. 56th St.

Manny’s Bistro

Known for his improvised Sunday sets, Danza enjoys this quaint French spot, though he offers a cheeky critique of the music. “The food is fantastic, but the band? Not so much.”

225 Columbus Ave.

54 or Less

He loves catching shows at this midtown cabaret, praising owner Michael Feinstein for promoting classic American music.

254 W. 54th St.

Gallagher Steakhouse

Danza considers Gallagher his go-to for dates, enjoying the restaurant’s storied history. “It’s been around for nearly a century,” he notes.

228 W. 52nd St.

Frankie and Johnny’s Steakhouse

Another favorite of Danza’s, he advises that diners will be thoroughly impressed here.

320 W. 46th St.

Sardi

Danza’s ties to this Broadway staple run deep, as he has a caricature on the wall from his time in Mel Brooks’ musical.

234 W. 44th St.

Birdland

For jazz lovers, Birdland holds a special place for Danza, noted for its rich music history featuring legends like Miles Davis.

315 W. 44th St.

Bemelman’s Bar

He appreciates the diverse demographics that now frequent this spot, which has gained popularity among younger crowds.

35 E. 76th St.