Joe Farina was born and raised in Jefferson Park - which is on the northwest side of Chicago. He is of Italian and German descent. He is the youngest of three boys. His father, actor Dennis Farina, worked as a Chicago Police detective, while his mother, Patricia, raised three sons: Dennis Jr., Michael and Joseph. He is named after his grandfather, Joseph Farina, who was from Italy and came to America and worked as a family physician. Attended Gordon Technical High School and DePaul University. He has a bachelor of arts degree in Psychology.
He was thinking of pursuing a radio career. He even had a radio show with current CLTV reporter, Carlos Hernandez-Gomez. But after a while, he switched gears because he felt acting was his real calling. He's also performed improv in Chicago including working with notable improv performer and director, Joe Keefe.
He's a big fan of 1960s Brit-Pop rock. Among his favorite groups are The Who, The Kinks and The Small Faces. Enjoys spending time with his wife, Heather. Has a pet dog - a golden retriever named Kelly. Farina is a die-hard Bears and Cubs fan.
