In 1980, amateur actor Joe Pesci received an unexpected call from Robert De Niro offering him a role in Martin Scorsese's 'Raging Bull' as boxer Jake LaMotta's younger brother. This opportunity proved transformative, launching Pesci's career in Hollywood. The film itself was crucial for Scorsese, who was recovering from personal difficulties and a previous commercial failure.

Pesci initially dismissed news of the call as a workplace prank, being an unknown actor who was working at a restaurant whilst pursuing acting opportunities. He verified its authenticity by checking that the area code was Los Angeles, then called back immediately. De Niro and Scorsese had been impressed by Pesci's performance in the low-budget Mafia film 'The Death Collector' and pursued him specifically for the role, which proved to be the pivotal moment that established his acting career.