Sopranos actor Vincent Pastore, known for playing mobsters and tough guys, dies aged 80

Vincent Pastore, a veteran actor recognized for portraying mobsters and tough characters, has passed away at 80. He gained widespread recognition for his role as Salvatore “Big Pussy” Bonpensiero, a mob associate who becomes an FBI informant, in the acclaimed HBO series "The Sopranos."

His manager, Bob McGowan, confirmed Pastore's death to the Associated Press, having learned of it from another "Sopranos" actor, Vincent Curatola. Pastore was found in his Long Island home after not being heard from for several days. McGowan described Pastore as "the most loyal client" who "always gave to charity" and was the type of person who "would help anybody, which is rare in my business."

Pastore's career spanned decades, with film appearances dating back to the 1980s. He notably appeared in Martin Scorsese's "Goodfellas" and Penny Marshall's "Awakenings" in 1990. His frequent portrayal of gangsters, most famously "Big Pussy" in "The Sopranos" across 30 episodes, solidified his screen persona.

Born in the Bronx, Pastore grew up in New Rochelle, New York. His biography indicates he served in the Navy during the Vietnam War and later attended Pace University. He is survived by his daughter, Renee Pastore.

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He was the most loyal client and he always gave to charity, and he was the kind of guy who would help anybody, which is rare in my business.