Vincent Pastore, renowned 'The Sopranos' actor, dies aged 80

Vincent Pastore, best known for playing Salvatore “Big Pussy” Bonpensiero on HBO’s The Sopranos, has died aged 80.

The veteran actor was reportedly found dead at his Bronx residence on August 1, 2026.

Pastore’s manager, Bob McGowan, had not heard from him for three days, while a close friend said the actor’s driver had spoken to him by phone on Friday night.

His death is believed to have been from natural causes and was not being investigated by the medical examiner.

Born in the Bronx on July 14, 1946, Pastore served in the Vietnam War before graduating from Pace University with a degree in drama. While working as a limo driver, he met Matt and Kevin Dillon, with Kevin Dillon later helping him secure his first acting opportunity.

Pastore appeared in films including Goodfellas, Carlito’s Way, Mickey Blue Eyes, Shark Tale and Revolver.

However, his defining role came in The Sopranos, where Big Pussy was Tony Soprano’s longtime friend and mob enforcer who became an FBI informant.

Beyond acting, Pastore appeared on reality programmes including Celebrity Apprentice, Dancing With the Stars and Celebrity Family Feud. He also hosted The Wiseguy Show on SiriusXM.

“Vinny was a great guy, he would help anyone and was very charitable,” McGowan said.

Pastore is survived by his daughter Renee, son-in-law and granddaughter.