Vincent Pastore, ‘The Sopranos’ Star, Dies at 80

Vincent Pastore, the iconic American actor recognized for his portrayal of mobster Salvatore "Big Pussy" Bonpensiero in HBO's "The Sopranos," has passed away at the age of 80. His demise was discovered on Saturday by a neighbor in his Bronx home. His manager, Bob McGowan, confirmed the news to TheWrap via a call from Pastore's former "Sopranos" co-star and close friend, Vincent Curatola.

McGowan expressed his condolences to Pastore's family, praising his kindness and dedication to charitable causes. Following smaller roles during the 1980s and 1990s, Pastore gained widespread recognition in 1999 when he was cast as a main character in "The Sopranos," playing the sentimental favorite of Tony Soprano. Apart from his role in "The Sopranos," Pastore contributed to various Broadway productions, including "Chicago" and "Bullets Over Broadway," and made numerous guest appearances in television series such as "Aqua Teen Hunger Force," "General Hospital," and "Son of the Beach."

His career spanned across film, TV, and reality shows, including "Celebrity Apprentice," "Shark Tank," and "Dancing With the Stars." Born on July 14, 1946, in New Rochelle, NY, Pastore served in the Navy during the Vietnam War before pursuing his passion for acting, earning a degree in drama from Pace University. He is survived by his daughter, Renee.