The Sopranos star Vincent Pastore dies aged 80
Pastore, who played Salvatore "Big Pussy" Bonpensiero in the hit US show, was found at his home in New York City, US media report.
Vincent Pastore, the American actor best known for his portrayal of Salvatore "Big Pussy" Bonpensiero in the acclaimed series *The Sopranos*, has passed away at the age of 80. Multiple US news sources confirmed his death.
Pastore was discovered at his residence in the Bronx, New York City. CBS News, the BBC's US affiliate, reported that there were no signs of foul play.
Within *The Sopranos*, Pastore embodied the role of Tony Soprano's closest confidant, who ultimately became an FBI informant. His character's demise in the second season stands out as one of the show's most iconic plot developments.
Robert Attermann, Pastore's manager, shared his sentiments with CBS News: "While the world will forever recall him as the unforgettable 'Big Pussy,' to those of us who truly knew him, he was so much more."
Attermann further elaborated on Pastore's character: "He had a profound love for acting. He approached his craft with immense passion and consistently demonstrated encouragement, respect, and generosity towards emerging actors, always making time to offer guidance and support whenever possible."
He added: "For me, Vinny's loss is profoundly personal. Over more than three decades, I had the privilege of witnessing not only his remarkable career but also the extraordinary individual he was. I will deeply miss his friendship, his unwavering loyalty, his humor, and his genuine heart."
Born in the Bronx in 1946, Pastore served in the US Navy during the Vietnam War before embarking on his acting career.
His early filmography included parts in notable movies such as *Goodfellas* and *Carlito's Way*.
Later television roles encompassed appearances in *Law & Order*, *General Hospital*, and *Hawaii Five-O*.
However, it was his performance in *The Sopranos* that garnered Pastore widespread acclaim. Despite his character's death in the second series, he featured in all six seasons of the critically lauded program.
In 2000, Pastore and his fellow *The Sopranos* cast members were honored with the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series.