Biography
Eugene Mazzola was born in Hollywood, California, into a large family deeply involved in the film industry. He is the sixth of seven siblings. His father, Leonard Al Mazzola, began his career in Vaudeville, while his mother, Saveria Mazzola, appeared in The Godfather Part II (1974). Eugene entered the film business early, debuting as Anthony Caruso's baby in The Asphalt Jungle (1950). After several film and TV roles, he was cast in The Ten Commandments (1956) alongside Yul Brynner as the Pharaoh Rameses' son. Following this, he adopted the stage name Eugene Martin and enjoyed a successful career as a child actor. In 1958, he joined the TV series Jefferson Drum and became a SAG member in 1964.
Mazzola served in the Navy from 1968 to 1970, initially deployed on the Mekong River and later at Camp Tien Sha Da Nang. After his Vietnam tour, he briefly worked as a photojournalist for COMPHIBPAC in Coronado. Upon completing his military service, he returned to Hollywood, attended college, and continued acting. In 1972, he transitioned behind the camera, producing his first film, Joyride (1977), in 1976—the same year he joined the Directors Guild of America (DGA).
In 1981, Mazzola relocated with his young family to Seattle, Washington. He founded Seattle Cine Rentals in 1984, which eventually became part of The Cine Companies. Within a few years, it grew into the largest grip and electric equipment company north of Los Angeles, with locations in Seattle, Portland, and Spokane. He owned and operated the company until 1993 when he sold it to Pacific Grip and Lighting. Throughout his career, Mazzola has continued working as an assistant director, production manager, and producer. He is married to his high school sweetheart, Zita Mazzola, and they have three children: Saveria T. Mazzola, Richard-Augustus (RA), and Sebastian Mazzola.
