Actor Vincent Pastore, best known for his role as Salvatore “Big Pussy” Bonpensiero on the HBO series "The Sopranos," died Saturday at the age of 80. Police sources stated that Pastore died of natural causes.
Sources close to the actor reported that he was found dead in his home on City Island in the Bronx by a neighbor. Jamie-Lynn Sigler, who portrayed Meadow Soprano on the series, shared a tribute on her Instagram Stories, calling Pastore “a wonderful actor, a kind and loving man.” She added, “It was an honor to know you and work with you.”
![Actor Vincent Pastore smiling while attending HBO's "The Sopranos" 25th anniversary celebration.]( "Actor Vincent Pastore smiling while attending HBO's "The Sopranos" 25th anniversary celebration.")
Pastore’s longtime manager, Robert Attermann, released a statement mourning the actor’s death, describing the loss as “deeply personal.” Attermann, who represented Pastore for over 30 years, noted that while the world remembers him as “Big Pussy,” those who knew him saw “so much more.” He added that Pastore “genuinely appreciated the people who supported him and always made them feel valued” and “loved being an actor.”
Other "Sopranos" cast members also offered tributes. Edie Falco, who played Carmela Soprano, called it an “awful loss” and described Pastore as “always so full of life.” Michael Imperioli, who portrayed Christopher Moltisanti, remembered Pastore as a “beloved friend and collaborator,” recalling many “good times” and “lots of laughs” shared during their work together and travels.
Pastore's role as Salvatore “Big Pussy” Bonpensiero was a significant part of the early seasons of "The Sopranos." He appeared in the first two seasons and returned in recurring and guest roles in later seasons. The actor also had a role in the film "Goodfellas" and voiced characters in "The Sopranos" prequel film "A Bronx Tale" and the animated movie "Shark Tale."
Pastore’s last public appearance was in June 2024, when he attended the premiere of “Stevie Van Zandt: Disciple” at the Tribeca Festival in New York City to support his "Sopranos" co-star Steven Van Zandt. He was seen smiling and posing for photographers on the red carpet at the event.