Vincent Pastore, the veteran actor best known for his role as Salvatore “Big P—y” Bonpensiero in The Sopranos, has died aged 80.
Pastore was found dead at his home in the Bronx on Saturday, August 1, after a neighbour became concerned when he had not been heard from for three days.
The circumstances surrounding his death are under investigation, according to US reports.
The actor’s final public appearance was in June 2024, when he attended the Tribeca Festival in New York to support longtime friend and fellow musician and actor Steven Van Zandt.
Pastore’s longtime manager Robert Attermann paid tribute to the actor, describing him as a much-loved figure both on and off screen.
“I had the privilege of representing Vinny for more than 30 years, long before The Sopranos made him a household name,” Attermann said.
“To the world, he will always be remembered as the unforgettable ‘Big P—y,’ but to those of us who knew him, he was so much more.”
“Vinny was one of the kindest, most generous people I have ever known. He treated everyone with warmth and respect, never turning down a fan who wanted a photograph or an autograph.”
“Over more than three decades, I had the honour of watching not only his remarkable career but also the incredible person he was. I will miss his friendship, his loyalty, his humour, and his heart.”
Pastore served as a sailor during the Vietnam War before turning to acting, taking on small roles throughout the 1980s. His breakthrough came in 1999 when he joined the cast of The Sopranos, one of television’s most acclaimed dramas.
He appeared in 30 episodes of the seven-season series as Salvatore “Big P—y” Bonpensiero, a close associate of mob boss Tony Soprano, played by James Gandolfini.
His character was later revealed to be an FBI informant before being killed off.
Beyond The Sopranos, Pastore appeared in several crime dramas and films, including Goodfellas, Carlito’s Way, Men of Respect and Witness to the Mob.
He also became a familiar face on reality television during the 2000s, appearing on shows including Celebrity Apprentice, Celebrity Family Feud, Dancing With the Stars, Shark Tank and Celebrity Fit Club.
He is survived by his daughter, Renee.
Image: lev radin / Shutterstock.com
