Vincent Pastore, the actor known for playing mobster Salvatore "Big Pussy" Bonpensiero on The Sopranos, has died at age 80. His former castmates remembered him in tributes shared on social media following the announcement of his death.
Pastore appeared on The Sopranos during its groundbreaking early seasons on HBO, portraying a member of Tony Soprano's crew. His character became one of the show's most memorable figures before meeting a dramatic end in the series. The role cemented Pastore's reputation for playing tough guys and mobsters throughout his career.
Castmates from The Sopranos mourned Pastore on social media, describing him as a beloved friend and beautiful soul. The tributes highlighted both his professional contributions to the iconic series and his personal relationships with fellow actors from the show. Page Six reported that cast members expressed grief over losing someone they had worked closely with during the show's run.
The timing of Pastore's death coincided with another Sopranos cast member singing the national anthem at a Mets game, creating an unexpected contrast between celebration and mourning for the show's family of actors. CNN and BBC covered the news of his passing, noting his decades-long career playing characters that became synonymous with his name in popular culture.
Pastore's death marks another loss for the cast of The Sopranos, which has seen several members pass away in recent years. The show, which ended its run in 2007, continues to be regarded as one of television's most influential series, and Pastore's performance remains a significant part of its legacy.