Vincent Pastore, known for his role as Tony Soprano’s best friend-turned-informant in the HBO series “The Sopranos,” has died at the age of 80. A representative confirmed his death on Saturday.
Manager Robert Attermann stated that Pastore passed away at home in the Bronx, New York City. Friends found him on Saturday after authorities received a 911 call at around 2:30 p.m. The New York Police Department reported that officers arrived to find an “unconscious and unresponsive” man, and he was declared dead at the scene.
Pastore is best remembered for playing Salvatore Bonpensiero, nicknamed “Big Pussy,” who was a mob boss’s close friend and later an FBI informant. The role made him a well-known figure when the show started in 1999. Born and raised in the Bronx, Pastore had a background in the nightclub industry before he pursued acting.
He also appeared in other films and shows, including “Law & Order” and Martin Scorsese’s “Goodfellas.” His performance in “The Sopranos” received much praise, contributing to the show’s success. Pastore had a love for music as well, performing with a band called Gangster Squad.
Tributes filled social media after his passing, with co-stars expressing their sadness over the loss of a kind and generous man. His former manager highlighted Pastore’s warmth and his appreciation for fans who supported his career.
