Actor Vincent Pastore, recognized for his memorable roles as a mobster and tough guy in cinema and television, passed away at the age of 80. Pastore is best known to audiences for his 30-episode run as Salvatore Big Pussy Bonpensiero on the HBO series The Sopranos. He was discovered at his residence on City Island in New York after being unreachable for several days.
Bob McGowan, who served as Pastore’s manager during his time on The Sopranos, confirmed the news. McGowan described the actor as a loyal client and a man who prioritized helping others throughout his life. His work in the entertainment industry spanned decades, including appearances in films such as Goodfellas and Awakenings in 1990.
Before his acting career, Pastore served in the Navy during the Vietnam War and later attended Pace University. Fellow actor and collaborator Michael Imperioli remembered their years of work together in the United States and abroad, noting Pastore's kind nature and dedication to his family and friends. Pastore is survived by his daughter, Renee Pastore.