Fredo Corleone is a fictional character from Mario Puzo's novel "The Godfather" and its film adaptations directed by Francis Ford Coppola. He is the middle son of Vito Corleone, the head of the Corleone crime family, and is portrayed by actor John Cazale. Fredo is often seen as the weaker and less competent sibling compared to his brothers, Michael and Sonny. In the story, Fredo struggles with feelings of inadequacy and seeks approval from his family. His actions, driven by a desire for power and recognition, ultimately lead to significant conflict within the Corleone family, particularly with Michael, who becomes the new head of the family.