‘The Sopranos’ Star Vincent Pastore Dies at 80 — Cause of Death Under Investigation

Fans of prestige television are mourning today as veteran character actor Vincent Pastore—best known for his unforgettable turn as Salvatore “Big Pussy” Bonpensiero on HBO’s “The Sopranos”—has died at age 80 in his Bronx home. The actor was discovered on August 1 after neighbors grew concerned when they hadn’t seen him for several days; authorities have not yet released an official cause of death, but an investigation is under way. Born on July 14, 1946, and raised in the Bronx, Pastore served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War before earning a drama degree from Pace University. His break came in the early 1990s with small but memorable roles in mob classics like “Goodfellas,” “Carlito’s Way,” and the TV movie “Gotti,” where he shared the screen with future “Sopranos” castmates. Pastore’s career reached iconic status in 1999 when series creator David Chase cast him in “The Sopranos.” His portrayal of Tony Soprano’s loyal friend-turned-informant became a cultural touchstone, and the shocking Season 2 episode in which “Big Pussy” meets his fate remains one of television’s most talked-about scenes. Beyond “The Sopranos,” Pastore amassed more than 100 screen credits, appearing in films such as “Mickey Blue Eyes,” “Shark Tale,” “Revolver,” and “Riding in Cars with Boys.” On the small screen he logged guest spots on “Law & Order,” “Hawaii Five-0,” “Yellowjackets,” and most recently the mob-drama series “Gravesend.” He also became a reality-TV favorite with stints on “Dancing With the Stars,” “Celebrity Apprentice,” and VH1’s “Celebrity Fit Club,” where he famously shed nearly 30 pounds. Industry colleagues are paying tribute. Longtime manager Bob McGowan remembered Pastore as “a great guy who would help anyone and was very charitable,” sentiments echoed across social media by former co-stars and fans alike. Pastore is survived by his daughter Renee. Funeral arrangements have not been announced. For audiences worldwide, however, his legacy is secured: every time “The Sopranos” theme kicks in or a classic gangster film rolls, Vincent Pastore’s larger-than-life presence will live on.