"The Godfather" author Puzo

MARIO

This Italian-American writer also penned "The Fortunate Pilgrim," a novel inspired by his mother’s immigrant experience. His first name shares a famous video game plumber.

This clue refers to Mario Puzo, the famous author who wrote The Godfather novel in 1969. The answer is simply his first name, "MARIO," which fits the crossword’s letter count. Since the clue includes his last name, it’s a direct reference to his well-known identity in literature and film.