'A Bronx Tale' Actor Honors 'First Love' 31 Years Later: 'Puppy Love'

Lilo Brancato recently shared a nostalgic glimpse into his past, posting a throwback photo with Chanel Capra, whom he calls his first love. Fans may recognize her surname her brother, Francis Capra, portrayed the younger version of Brancatos character in the 1993 film A Bronx Tale.

Brancato captioned the Instagram post, A #tbt to my #firstlove @chanel_capra back in #1992. We remain close friends to this day. She comes from a wonderful family and is an amazing person.

He added, She is also the older sister of @francis_capra, who played my younger self in A Bronx Tale. Wishing them all the best. Love you guys.

Fans with sharp eyes may have noticed Chanel making a brief appearance in the film, appearing as one of the girls crossing the street while Brancatos character and his friends whistle and catcall. Responding to Brancatos post, Chanel wrote, First love. Forever love, and shared the throwback photo on her own account, calling him her first love, right back atcha.

According to Brancato, the photo may have been taken at a party they both attended. Social media followers quickly flooded their comment sections with compliments. Shes beautiful. Reminds me of Selena, one fan wrote, while another added, Stunning! You two looked great together.

Brancato has been in a sentimental mood lately. A few months ago, he reunited with his A Bronx Tale co-star Taral Hicks for a charity event supporting homeless veterans. Marie Claire shared the reunion on Instagram, showing a side-by-side comparison of the actors from 1993 and 2025, with the caption: Can you believe its been 32 years? @sheistaralhicksdawson and @lillo_brancato, who captured our hearts as Jane and Calogero, reunite in a photo sparking nostalgia.

In A Bronx Tale, Brancato played Calogero Anello, an Italian-American teen growing up in the Bronx. Despite his fathers warnings, he becomes drawn to the mafia, forming a connection with mob boss Sonny (Chazz Palminteri), while also developing a sweet romance with Jane Williams (Hicks). Directed by Robert De Niro, the 1993 film was Brancatos first leading role, which helped launch his acting career. He later appeared in The Sopranos as Matthew Bevilaqua and had roles in films such as Crimson Tide and Renaissance Man.

Hicks also made her film debut in A Bronx Tale and went on to pursue acting and music, releasing her debut R&B album This Time in 1997.

Author: Lucas Grant