There’s something magical about destiny, isn’t there? Olivia Valli, the talented granddaughter of legendary singer Frankie Valli, found herself in a situation that feels almost too perfect to be true. She made her off-Broadway debut playing her own grandmother in the beloved musical Jersey Boys. But don’t think for a second that this role was handed to her on a silver platter. Olivia auditioned for Jersey Boys for an impressive six years before landing the part. "It was a dream come true to honor my grandmother every single night on stage," Olivia exclusively shares with Closer. Her dedication and perseverance are truly inspiring.
At 29 years old, Olivia grew up in New Jersey, surrounded by the melodies of her family’s rich musical heritage. "My grandfather used to sing to me. It’s one of my favorite memories of him," she fondly recalls. Even now, Frankie, who’s still going strong at 88, continues to serenade his granddaughter over the phone. Music is more than just a hobby in the Valli household; it’s a cherished tradition that connects them across generations.
When Olivia was a little girl, Frankie loved to take the family on adventures to places like Disneyland and New York City. "We would go in and eat dinner at Patsy’s," she remembers. "He was always interested in looking for a new shop, store, or restaurant." These outings weren’t just about sightseeing—they were opportunities for Frankie to share his curiosity and love for exploration with his family. Olivia cherishes those moments, where she and her grandfather would wander through new neighborhoods, discovering hidden gems together.
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But don’t let the charm fool you—Frankie has a playful side that keeps Olivia laughing. "My grandpa is actually really silly. He loves to crack jokes with me," she says with a smile. Beyond the humor, there’s a deep bond between them. "He’s caring, protective, and he will always make time for me, no matter how busy he is." It’s clear that Frankie’s influence extends far beyond the stage—it’s woven into the fabric of Olivia’s life.
Lessons from a Legend
Following Her Dreams Despite the Challenges
From a young age, Olivia knew she wanted to follow in her grandfather’s footsteps and become a performer. However, Frankie, being the seasoned veteran he is, wasn’t quick to give his blessing. "He warned me about how bad and how toxic it could be," she admits. The entertainment industry isn’t for the faint of heart, and Frankie wanted to make sure Olivia understood the challenges ahead. But as he saw her passion and determination grow, he became her biggest supporter. "He gave me tons of advice on how to work hard, train, and how to be a professional," Olivia explains. "I’m so grateful for everything he’s taught me. I love what I do." It’s this combination of hard work and family support that has propelled Olivia to where she is today.
—Susan Hornik
