History of Nelson Sardelli in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: June 26, 2025

Nelson Sardelli was a Brazilian-born singer-comedian, notable for his entertainment career in Las Vegas. He was recognized with the Golden Pillow Award in 2008. Sardelli also had acting roles in films like *Myra Breckinridge* and *The Professionals*. Furthermore, he organized the annual 'Starshine' fundraiser in Atlantic City to support mentally disabled children.

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Full Timeline

September 20, 1934: Nelson Sardelli's Birth

Nelson Sardelli was born on September 20, 1934, in Brazil. He later became a singer-comedian best known for his entertainment career in Las Vegas.

Others born on this day/year

1956: Analyst for General Motors

In 1956, Nelson Sardelli was working as an analyst for General Motors. Later that year, he decided to emigrate to Pontiac, Michigan, but instead enlisted in the US Army.

1958: Served in the US Army

In 1958, Nelson Sardelli was serving in the US Army. At one point, he taught soldiers how to dance at a USO at Fort Gordon, Georgia.

1963: Relationship with Jayne Mansfield

In 1963, Nelson Sardelli was involved with actress Jayne Mansfield, and they almost married, marking a significant relationship in his life.

1964: Mansfield's Marriage and Daughter's Birth

In 1964, Jayne Mansfield married Mickey Hargitay. Her daughter Mariska was born that year, and grew up knowing Mickey as her father.

1964: Mariska Hargitay's birth year

Mariska Hargitay was born in 1964. At age 25, she began to suspect that Nelson Sardelli was her biological father, eventually meeting him at age 30.

1965: Became Resident of Las Vegas

Since 1965, Nelson Sardelli has been a full-time resident of Las Vegas.

1992: Biography Allegation

In 1992, Raymond Strait published a biography of Jayne Mansfield, alleging that Nelson Sardelli was the biological father of Mansfield's daughter Mariska Hargitay. Mickey Hargitay was publicly assumed to be the father.

2001: Death of Venetia Sardelli

In 2001, Venetia Sardelli, the eldest daughter of Nelson Sardelli and Fledia Fay Sardelli, passed away.

June 28, 2008: Awarded Golden Pillow Award

On June 28, 2008, Nelson Sardelli was awarded the Golden Pillow Award from the International Entertainer School of Las Vegas, recognizing his contributions to the entertainment industry.