Anecdotes

Ron did the illustrations for two of his children's books.

Ron also appeared in operas and other stage performances.

Was the second of two main cast members of Welcome Back, Kotter (1975) to pass away in 2012. The first was Robert Hegyes, who coincidentally also passed away from a heart attack.

(June 1999-February 2000) Currently directing and co-starring in the stage musical A Closer Walk with Patsy Cline in West Palm Beach, FL.

Palillo and his partner of 41 years, Joseph Graham, lived in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

He attended Fairfield University in Fairfield, Connecticut, after receiving his bachelor's degree.

In August 2009, Ron was teaching freshman drama at G-STAR School of the Arts for Motion Pictures and Broadcasting, in Palm Beach, Florida.

In August 2008, Ron starred in the independent short film The Curse of Micah Rood, which was shown at the New London Film Festival.

Palillo, came out of the closet after "Welcome Back, Kotter" was canceled.

In November 2004, Ron appeared in The Ivoryton Playhouse's production of Inherit the Wind, which ran 'til 21 November, 2004.

Was defeated by Dustin Diamond ("Screech" from Sauvés par le gong (1989)) in Fox's Celebrity Boxing 2 (2002).

Shared a birthday with fellow Welcome Back, Kotter (1975) cast member, Debralee Scott.