Vincent Pastore, the actor best known for playing Salvatore “Big Pussy” Bonpensiero on The Sopranos, has died at the age of 80.
According to CBS News, Pastore was found dead at his home in the Bronx, New York, by a neighbor after he had not been heard from for some time. There are no indications of criminal activity, and the exact cause of death has not yet been determined.
The role that made him a legend
Pastore became a defining presence on The Sopranos as Tony Soprano’s close friend, whose character was later revealed to be working as an FBI informant. His dramatic exit at the end of the second season is widely regarded as one of the most memorable moments in the history of the series. Although the character died early in the show’s run, Pastore continued to appear in flashbacks and dream sequences across all six seasons.
Before acting, Pastore served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. He made his early film appearances in Goodfellas and Carlito’s Way, and later appeared on television in Law and Order, General Hospital, and Hawaii Five-0.
Tributes from those who knew him
His longtime manager, Robert Alterman, paid tribute to the actor, saying that while the world would always remember the unforgettable “Big Pussy,” those fortunate enough to know him personally saw much more. Alterman described Pastore as someone who loved acting, supported younger performers, and was generous, funny, and big-hearted. He added that the loss was especially personal, as the two had worked together for more than three decades and had developed a close friendship.
Pastore was born in the Bronx in 1946.
