Vincent Pastore, widely recognized for his iconic role in the television series “The Sopranos,” has passed away at the age of 80. The news of his death was confirmed by his manager to CBS News.
“I had the privilege of representing Vinny for more than 30 years, long before The Sopranos made him a household name,” stated his manager, Robert Attermann. He added, “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.”
Authorities reported that Pastore was found deceased in his Bronx home on Saturday afternoon, with no signs of foul play detected.
[Vincent Pastore at HBO’s “The Sopranos” 20th anniversary at the SVA Theatre on Jan. 9, 2019, New York. Photo by Charles Sykes / AP Photo]
Born in the Bronx on July 14, 1946, Pastore served in the Vietnam War before earning a drama degree from Pace University. He began his acting career with roles in films such as “Goodfellas,” “Carlito’s Way,” and “Men of Respect.” He later appeared in movies like “The Jerky Boys: The Movie” and “Gotti.”
Pastore’s television career extended beyond “The Sopranos.” He appeared in numerous shows including “Celebrity Apprentice,” “Law & Order,” “Blue Bloods,” “General Hospital,” “The Practice,” “Hawaii Five-0,” and “One Life to Live.” His recent works included a series regular role in “Gravesend” in 2022 and a guest appearance on “Yellowjackets” in 2025.
“The Sopranos” cast earned the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series in 2000, with another nomination following in 2001.
“He loved being an actor,” said Attermann. “He was passionate about his craft and was always encouraging, respectful, and generous with young actors, offering guidance and support whenever he could.”
Attermann shared a personal reflection: “Losing Vinny is deeply personal. Over more than three decades, I had the honor of witnessing not only his remarkable career but also the incredible person he was. I will miss his friendship, his loyalty, his humor, and his heart.”