Frank Sinatra’s Dangerous Dance with the Mob

In the mid-1970s, a heavily intoxicated Frank Sinatra caused quite a commotion at a Las Vegas casino while out reveling with his Rat Pack pals, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis, Jr.

The rowdy singer's behavior escalated to the point where the pit boss had to step in and swiftly remove him from the public eye.

According to Mike Rothmiller, co-author of “Frank Sinatra and the Mafia Murders,” Sinatra's drunken tirade included menacing threats like “you're dead!

you're dead!” This incident shed light on the singer's deep ties with the mafia and how he sought their assistance when feeling threatened.

Sinatra's connections with the mob, which dated back to the 1940s, nearly proved to be his downfall.

His brash attitude, especially concerning women like Ava Gardner, often rubbed the mafia the wrong way.

Rothmiller revealed that Sinatra frequently boasted on behalf of his powerful associates, issuing threats when he felt provoked.

The new book by Rothmiller and Douglas Thompson delves into Sinatra's intricate relationship with organized crime, highlighting his tendency to make intimidating remarks when agitated.

Despite not being a full-fledged member of the Mafia, Sinatra's close association with them was undeniable, shaping his persona and career.

Sinatra's volatile temperament and habit of discussing his mafia acquaintances posed a risk not only to himself but also to his powerful allies.

His penchant for bragging about mob activities and his confrontations with individuals like actor Peter Lawford added fuel to the fire, drawing unwanted attention.

The singer's efforts to shield himself from potential harm included attempting to become a CIA informant, leveraging his proximity to the British royal family.

However, even the US government hesitated to involve Sinatra due to concerns about his loose lips and the sensitive information he might reveal.

Despite the looming threat of danger, Sinatra's relationship with gangster Sam “Momo” Giancana remained a complex web of loyalty and mistrust.

Giancana's involvement in clandestine operations and his role in Sinatra's personal life showcased the intricate ties between the entertainment industry and organized crime.

When Sinatra's son, Frank Sinatra Jr., was kidnapped in the early 1960s, the singer turned to Giancana for assistance instead of law enforcement.

This incident further underscored the extent of Sinatra's reliance on his mafia connections during times of crisis.

In the end, while Sinatra may not have been an official member of the Mafia, his close affiliation with the organization had a profound impact on his life and career.

The intricate dance between the iconic singer and the underworld highlighted the blurred lines between fame, power, and danger.