This former homeless man is a secret movie star

Have you heard of “Radio Man”? If not, you're not alone. Even though you may have seen it before – either intentionally or unintentionally.

In fact, it's hard for Craig Castaldo to stand out on the streets of New York. However, the 74-year-old man is the urban legend “Broadcaster” in “New York”.

Nearly every movie star and major director in the world knew the formerly homeless man, but almost no one else. This is despite the fact that most people have probably seen the movies he starred in. This is his story:

Castaldo was born in 1950 and grew up in Brooklyn, New York. He served in the Vietnam War and then worked for the U.S. Postal Service before becoming homeless and falling into alcohol addiction. He later found work at a newsagent – something that would become the spark for his unusual career. One day, when a film crew asked him to move the stands, he refused and immediately showed up on the scene. The New York Times wrote in an article about him that he has been fascinated by the world of movies ever since.

In 1989, he stumbled across the set of “The Fisher King” — more by chance — where he met actor Robin Williams, whom he calls a “good friend.” Many years later, he said of him:

“The Fisher King” was just the first of countless movie sets that “Radio” would visit – or perhaps should say track – over the coming decades.

“Radioman” – a lucky charm on movie sets

“Radioman” was named for the unique radio he always wore around his neck, and his ability to find movie sets in New York was remarkable. In addition to this, he also obtained information from so-called truck drivers, i.e. transport workers who transport equipment to filming locations. No parking signs indicating an upcoming shot can also serve as a guide.

Such attacks gave Castaldo clues about upcoming filming.Image: Documentary “Radioman”

Several actors have said that “Broadcaster” sometimes knows before they do where the next scene will be shot. Soon, sooner or later, on every set in New York, Castaldo would show up on his bicycle. Today, it is considered a good luck charm by many. Some even described his absence from filming in New York as a bad omen.

From autograph hunter to secret movie star

Castaldo found a way to profit from his unusual career. He collected signed photos of the stars he met every day and then sold them. He still does it today. But it's more than that. On the one hand, he loved hanging out on the set because he loved the atmosphere (and there was free food on the catering trucks), but on the other hand, he always had other ambitions. Determined to become an actor.

Over the years, Castaldo has managed to get in front of the camera for more and larger productions. It is said that he has appeared in more than 300 films to date. Most of the time he was cast as an extra or extra in which he played a homeless man, but there were also some larger shows with written credits. His filmography also includes blockbusters and cult films such as Shutter Island starring Leonardo DiCaprio or The Departed – Against the Enemy directed by Martin Scorsese . Castaldo is a member of the Screen Actors Guild, the Screen Actors Guild, so he also earns from his work on the big screen.

Celebrities' favorite

After more than 30 years on the New York film set, “Radio Man” finally found its way into the hearts of its actors and actresses. Whether it's Meryl Streep, Tilda Swinton, Johnny Depp or Pierce Brosnan, anyone who meets him “behind the scenes” is usually happy to take the time to shake his hand, Sign a signature card or have a brief conversation.

Castaldo also attended the Oscars. Whoopi Goldberg fulfilled his dream by asking him to host the event. He accompanied Robin Williams and George Clooney to the event.

Many actors were full of praise and praise for Castaldo. Tom Hanks once said:

We have excerpted this statement as well as some video material from the 2012 documentary Radioman. If you want to watch more Radioman, we highly recommend it. The film follows the daily life of Craig Castaldo, with anecdotes narrated by many other actors besides Tom Hanks.

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