February 23, 2008

Manuel Padilla, Jr. was born on July 13, 1955. He made a name for himself long before his appearance in the classic film, "American Graffiti". For years he was a child actor playing the Mexican or Indian boy in TV westerns like Rawhide, Bonanza, and Gunsmoke. He played in two different "Tarzan" movies and was chosen to play as a regular cast member on the "Tarzan" TV show starring Ron Ely. Manuel played an orphan named Jai, who was adopted by Tarzan. After "Tarzan", Manuel became a regular on "The Flying Nun", playing the part of Marcello, the little boy who befriended Sister Bertrille, (Sally Field). He appeared in over 30 films and TV shows. Other notable credits include, "Dime With a Halo", "The Great White Hope", "A Man Called Horse", "Police Story" and "Happy Days". Padilla even reprised his role as American Graffiti's "Carlos" in the sequel , "More American Graffiti". His final film was Brian De Palma's "Scarface" where he was credited as "Kid No. 2." Manuel died unexpectedly on January 29, 2008 just after making a public appearance at the Grand National Roadster Show in Pomona, California. He leaves behind his parents, four children, one brother and numerous other family members.
Rest in peace, Manuel.