Vincent Pastore, Iconic ‘Big Pussy’ Actor, Dies at 80

Vincent Pastore, the actor best known for playing Salvatore “Big Pussy” Bonpensiero on HBO’s The Sopranos, has died at the age of 80.

According to Deadline, Pastore was found dead at his home in the Bronx, New York, on Saturday after neighbors had not heard from him for several days. Authorities are investigating the circumstances of his death.

Pastore’s manager, Robert Attermann, paid tribute to the actor, describing him as a kind, generous person who loved acting and always made time for fans. He said Pastore would be remembered not only for his famous role but also for his warmth, loyalty, and support for young actors.

Born in the Bronx in 1946, Pastore served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War before studying drama at Pace University. He began his film career in the late 1980s and became known for playing mobsters in films such as Goodfellas, Carlito’s Way, New Jack City, and Gotti.

His role in Gotti helped him land the part of Big Pussy in The Sopranos, which became the defining role of his career. He later appeared in films including Made, Riding in Cars With Boys, Shark Tale, and The Family, as well as TV shows such as Law & Order, Blue Bloods, Hawaii Five-0, and Yellowjackets. Over a career spanning four decades, he earned nearly 200 screen credits.

Pastore also appeared on several reality TV shows and hosted a radio show and podcast. He is survived by his family and leaves behind a lasting legacy in film and television.