Appeared in the trailer, but not the film, of The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms (1953)
Brother of actor/stuntman Charlie Picerni and Paula Picerni.
During his enlistment as a bombardier in the Army during WWII, he flew 25 combat missions and received the Distinguished Flying Cross. He was the bombardier on the plane that bombed and destroyed the real bridge made famous in the film The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957).
Father of actor/stuntman Paul V. Picerni Jr. and Marilyn Picerni.
Former Eagle Scout.
Grandfather of stuntman Rick Picerni.
He and wife Marie had four boys and four girls. They also have ten grandchildren. Many of their children and extended relatives are involved in Hollywood stunt work, including sister Paula Picerni, son Paul V. Picerni Jr. and grandson Rick Picerni.
He brought his brother, Charlie Picerni, out to Hollywood in 1961 to become his stand-in and (eventually) stunt double on "The Untouchables" (1959). Charles later directed TV and served as stuntman/coordinator for the popular "Die Hard" and "Lethal Weapon" film series.
Interviewed about his appearance in the movie The Scalphunters (1968) in the book "Wild Wild Westerners" by Tom Weaver (BearManor, 2012).
Interviewed about his co-starring role in the movie House of Wax (1953) in the book "I Was a Monster Movie Maker" by Tom Weaver (McFarland & Co., 2001).
Was hired by the Los Angeles Rams to be their half-time master of ceremonies and performed the job for over 30 years until the team moved to Anaheim. Was also hired to emcee banquets and benefits throughout his career.