Vincent Pastore, a veteran actor who played mobsters and tough guys, and was best known for playing Salvatore “Big Pussy” Bonpensiero on “The Sopranos,” has died at the age of 80.
Bob McGowan, who had managed Pastore since his run on “The Sopranos,” stated that he learned of his death Saturday from another client and actor on the show, Vincent Curatola. He said that Pastore was found in his home on New York’s City Island after not being heard from for a few days.
McGowan had been trying to reach him regarding a potential job.
“He was the most loyal client and he always gave to charity,” McGowan said, “and he was the kind of guy who would help anybody, which is rare in my business.”
Pastore appeared in movies dating back to the 1980s and earned roles in major films including “Goodfellas” and “Awakenings,” both released in 1990.
He often played gangsters, with his most prominent role being his 30-episode run as Salvatore “Big Pussy” Bonpensiero, the close friend of Tony Soprano who becomes an FBI informant in “The Sopranos.”
Born in the Bronx, Pastore grew up in suburban New Rochelle, New York. He enlisted in the Navy during the Vietnam War and later attended Pace University. He is survived by his daughter, Renee Pastore.