Sopranos star Vincent Pastore dies aged 80

Vincent Pastore, the actor famous for his role as Salvatore "Big Pussy" Bonpensiero on The Sopranos, has died at the age of 80. Bob McGowan, a mutual client and fellow actor on the show, learned of Pastore's passing on Saturday. It was discovered that Pastore had been found unresponsive at his home on New York's City Island and had not been seen for several days.

McGowan, who had been attempting to contact Pastore regarding a potential job opportunity, remembered him as a loyal client who consistently supported charitable causes. Known for his kindness and willingness to assist others, McGowan highlighted Pastore's exceptional nature in the industry. Beginning his film career in the 1980s, Pastore appeared in notable films such as Goodfellas and Awakenings in 1990, roles for which he is most remembered.

In a 2019 interview, he described Bonpensiero's character as a rat who caused trouble for many. Born in the Bronx and raised in suburban New Rochelle, New York, Pastore served in the Navy during the Vietnam War before attending Pace University.