AUGUST 2, 2026

Vincent Pastore, 'Sopranos' actor known for playing 'Big Pussy' Bonpensiero, dies at 80

Vincent Pastore, the veteran actor best known for his 30-episode run as Salvatore "Big Pussy" Bonpensiero on "The Sopranos," died at age 80. His manager, Bob McGowan, told the Associated Press he learned of Pastore's death from fellow Sopranos actor Vincent Curatola; Pastore was found in his home on New York's City Island after not being heard from for several days.

Vincent Pastore, born in the Bronx and raised in suburban New Rochelle, New York, built a career over four decades playing mobsters and tough guys before landing the role that would define his public identity. He enlisted in the Navy during the Vietnam War and later attended Pace University, according to his IMDb biography.

His film work began in the 1980s, and he appeared in major productions including "Goodfellas" and "Awakenings," both released in 1990. His most prominent role came on "The Sopranos," where he played Salvatore "Big Pussy" Bonpensiero — a close friend of Tony Soprano who is revealed to be an FBI informant — across 30 episodes of the acclaimed series.

McGowan, who managed Pastore since his time on the show, said he had been attempting to contact Pastore about a potential job. "He was the most loyal client, and he always gave to charity," McGowan said, as reported by the Associated Press. "He was the kind of guy who would help anybody, which is rare in my business."