Snopes
Real-life mobsters played a role in making The Godfather, influencing the script, casting, and production. Mafia boss Joseph Colombo negotiated changes to the script, while figures like Russell Bufalino and Gianni Russo helped secure roles for certain actors.
Some cast members, including Lenny Montana, had direct ties to organized crime, and director Francis Ford Coppola interacted with mobsters who ensured filming went smoothly.