Nick Acocella Biography (2025): Age, Family, Career, Net Worth, and the Legacy of Pasta & Politics
Nick Acocella was a renowned American journalist, author, and television host, best known for his deep expertise in New Jersey politics and for creating the unique culinary-political show Pasta & Politics. Acocella’s insightful reporting, engaging interviews, and passion for both politics and Italian cuisine made him a respected figure and a household name among political enthusiasts and food lovers alike.
Quick Facts
| Full Name | Nick Acocella |
| Profession / Occupation | Journalist, Author, Television Host |
| Birth Date | May 7, 1943 |
| Age | Deceased (Died June 20, 2020, aged 77) |
| Birth Place | Jersey City, New Jersey, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Famous For | Political Reporting, Pasta & Politics TV show |
| Known For | New Jersey political analysis, culinary interviews |
| Ethnicity | Italian-American |
| Zodiac Sign | Taurus |
| Height & Weight | Approx. 5’10” (178 cm), 180 lbs (82 kg) |
| Hair Color | Gray |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Education | La Salle University |
| Religion | Christian (Catholic) |
| Marital Status/Spouse | Married to Mary Alice Williams |
| Relationship | Married |
| Children | 2 |
| Relatives | Not publicly disclosed |
| Hobbies | Cooking, Baseball, Reading |
| Employer/Organization | Politifax, NJTV |
| Years Active | 1970s–2020 |
| Net Worth (Estimated) | $1–2 million (at time of death) |
Early Life & Education
Nick Acocella was born on May 7, 1943, in Jersey City, New Jersey. Raised in an Italian-American family, Nick developed an early appreciation for both community and culture. He attended local schools before enrolling at La Salle University in Philadelphia, where he studied English and honed his writing skills. His upbringing in a vibrant, diverse city and his family’s Italian heritage influenced both his culinary interests and his deep understanding of local politics.
Career Journey
Beginnings
Nick Acocella began his professional journey as a teacher and freelance writer, contributing to various publications. His passion for baseball led him to author several books on the sport, but it was politics that truly defined his career.
Political Reporting & Politifax
- Founded Politifax, a weekly newsletter covering New Jersey politics, in the 1990s.
- Earned a reputation for impartial, in-depth political analysis and breaking significant stories on state and local government.
- Became a trusted source for politicians, journalists, and policy experts.
Pasta & Politics
- Created and hosted Pasta & Politics on NJTV, blending interviews with political figures and Italian cooking.
- The show became a unique platform for candid political discussions in a relaxed, homey atmosphere.
- Featured guests included governors, senators, and mayors from across New Jersey.
Recent Activity & Legacy
- Continued to publish Politifax until his passing in 2020.
- Left a lasting legacy as a bridge between New Jersey’s political and cultural communities.
Personal Life
Nick Acocella was married to Mary Alice Williams, a respected journalist and television anchor. Together, they raised two children. Nick was known for his warmth, wit, and love of cooking, often hosting friends and family for homemade Italian meals. He enjoyed baseball, classic literature, and was actively involved in community events and charity work in New Jersey.
Awards & Achievements
- Recipient of multiple journalism awards for excellence in political reporting
- Honored by the New Jersey Press Association
- Recognized by local civic organizations for his community contributions
- Authored several acclaimed books on baseball and politics
Physical Statistics
- Height: 5’10” (178 cm)
- Weight: 180 lbs (82 kg)
- Hair Color: Gray
- Eye Color: Brown
Quotes
“Politics is best discussed over a good meal.”
“To understand New Jersey, you have to listen to its people.”
“Baseball and politics—both are games of strategy and patience.”
Controversies
Throughout his career, Nick Acocella maintained a reputation for fairness and integrity. While he sometimes faced criticism from politicians unhappy with his reporting, he was rarely involved in major controversies. His commitment to unbiased journalism was widely respected, and he was known for holding public figures accountable without sensationalism.
Favorites
- Favorite Pasta Dish: Linguine with clam sauce
- Favorite Baseball Team: New York Yankees
- Favorite Book: The Godfather by Mario Puzo
- Favorite Political Figure: Franklin D. Roosevelt
Salary & Net Worth
At the time of his passing in 2020, Nick Acocella’s net worth was estimated between $1 million and $2 million. His income sources included his newsletter Politifax, book royalties, and his television work with NJTV. While exact salary details are private, industry benchmarks for senior journalists and TV hosts in the New Jersey area suggest annual earnings in the mid-to-high five figures.
Interesting Facts
- Nick Acocella published more than a dozen books, including several on baseball and New Jersey history.
- He personally cooked all the pasta dishes featured on Pasta & Politics.
- Acocella was often invited to speak at universities and political forums across the state.
- He was known for his encyclopedic memory of New Jersey political history.
Social Media Links
- Facebook: NJTV Facebook
- Twitter/X: @NJTVNews
- YouTube: NJTV on YouTube
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Nick Acocella?
Nick Acocella was a respected American journalist, author, and TV host, best known for his political reporting and the show Pasta & Politics in New Jersey.
What was Nick Acocella’s most famous work?
He was best known for founding Politifax and hosting Pasta & Politics, where he interviewed political leaders while cooking Italian dishes.
What is Nick Acocella’s net worth?
At the time of his death, his net worth was estimated between $1 million and $2 million, earned from journalism, books, and TV hosting.
Was Nick Acocella married?
Yes, he was married to journalist Mary Alice Williams and had two children.
What made Pasta & Politics unique?
The show combined political interviews with cooking, offering viewers candid conversations with New Jersey leaders in a relaxed, kitchen setting.
How did Nick Acocella impact New Jersey politics?
He provided clear, unbiased analysis and helped make state politics accessible and interesting to a wide audience.
Conclusion
Nick Acocella’s legacy as a journalist, author, and television host continues to inspire those interested in politics and culture. His unique blend of culinary arts and political insight brought new audiences to both fields, and his commitment to integrity set a high standard for journalism in New Jersey. If you found this biography helpful, please share it with others interested in political history and media.
Sources: The New York Times, NJTV News, Politico, La Salle University, New Jersey Press Association
