Actor Vincent Pastore, best known for "The Sopranos," dies at 80

Vincent Pastore, the renowned actor best known for his portrayal of Salvatore Big Pussy Bonpensiero on the iconic television series The Sopranos, has passed away at the age of 80, according to his manager. The veteran actor, a native of New York City, was discovered deceased in his residence in The Bronx. His manager, Robert Attermann, confirmed the news to AFP, but refrained from disclosing the circumstances surrounding his demise.

Pastore was born on July 14, 1946, and prior to his acting career, he served in the US Navy during the Vietnam War and later pursued a university degree in drama. He gained recognition for his roles in Martin Scorsese's Goodfellas (1990) and Brian de Palma's Carlito's Way (1993), but it was his iconic character Big Pussy on The Sopranos that solidified his place in Hollywood history.

His portrayal of the loyal right-hand man to the late James Gandolfini's Tony Soprano, who later became an FBI informant, remains one of the most memorable scenes in the award-winning series' long-running cast. Pastore also made guest appearances on various television shows such as Law and Order and The Practice, as well as provided voice acting for the animated film Shark Tale.

He even appeared on the reality show The Celebrity Apprentice during Donald Trump's tenure as its host. Vincent Pastore's manager, Robert Attermann, expressed his gratitude, stating that he had the privilege of representing the actor for over 30 years, long before his breakthrough role in The Sopranos. Attermann emphasized that to the world, Pastore will always be remembered as the unforgettable Big Pussy, but to those who knew him personally, he was so much more - passionate about his craft, encouraging, respectful, and generous to aspiring actors, offering guidance and support whenever possible.