Sopranos actor Vincent Pastore dies at age 80

Vincent Pastore, the actor celebrated for his portrayal of Salvatore "Big Pussy" Bonpensiero in the acclaimed HBO crime drama "The Sopranos," has died at the age of 80. His manager confirmed his passing on Saturday.

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To the world, he will always be remembered as the unforgettable 'Big Pussy,' but to those of us who knew him, he was so much more.

Law enforcement sources informed CBS News that Pastore was discovered at his residence in the Bronx, New York City. Authorities have indicated there were no signs of criminal activity related to his death. Robert Attermann, Pastore's longtime manager, paid a heartfelt tribute to the actor, emphasizing that his legacy extended far beyond his most famous television character.

"To the world, he will always be remembered as the unforgettable 'Big Pussy,' but to those of us who knew him, he was so much more," Attermann told CBS News. He described Pastore as someone who "loved being an actor," was "passionate about his craft," and consistently demonstrated generosity towards younger actors, offering guidance and support. Attermann also noted the personal loss, having been friends with Pastore for over three decades, and will miss his "friendship, his loyalty, his humor, and his heart."

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He loved being an actor. He was passionate about his craft and was always encouraging, respectful, and generous with young actors, taking the time to offer guidance and support whenever he could.

Born in the Bronx in 1946, Pastore served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War before embarking on his acting career. His extensive résumé includes appearances in well-known films such as "Goodfellas" and "Carlito's Way." His role as Bonpensiero, Tony Soprano's friend and eventual FBI informant, was central to a defining storyline in "The Sopranos." Despite his character's demise in the second season, Pastore reappeared in flashbacks and dream sequences throughout the show's run. He also featured in television series like "Law & Order," "General Hospital," and "Hawaii Five-0." In 2000, Pastore and the cast of "The Sopranos" received the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series.

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For me, losing Vinny is deeply personal. Over more than three decades, I had the honor of watching not only his remarkable career but also the incredible person he was. I will miss his friendship, his loyalty, his humor, and his heart.