’Sopranos’ actor Vincent Pastore, known for playing mobsters and tough guys, dead at 80

Veteran actor Vincent Pastore, best known for his role as 'Big Pussy' on The Sopranos, has passed away at age 80. Colleagues and friends have paid tribute to his kindness, generosity, and dedication to his craft.
Why it matters
Pastore was a recognizable figure in American television history, and his passing marks the loss of a key contributor to one of the most influential series in modern media.
Vincent Pastore, a veteran actor who played mobsters and tough guys and was best known for portraying Salvatore ‘Big Pussy’ Bonpensiero on The Sopranos , has died. He was 80.
Bob McGowan, who managed Pastore since his run on The Sopranos , told The Associated Press that he learned of his death Saturday from another client and actor on the show, Vincent Curatola.
He said Pastore was found in his home on New York’s City Island after not being heard from for a few days. McGowan said he had been trying to reach Pastore about a possible 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.”
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