Vincent Pastore, the actor known for playing Salvatore "Big Pussy" Bonpensiero in HBO's The Sopranos, has died at the age of 80. He was found deceased at his Bronx residence on Saturday, 1 August, by a neighbour following three days without contact, according to Deadline. The outlet confirmed that the circumstances of his passing are still being investigated, and the cause of death has not been disclosed.
Career in film and television
Pastore appeared in nearly 200 films and television shows during his lengthy career, including GoodFellas, Carlito's Way, The Jerky Boys: The Movie, Gotti and countless others. His final role was in Yellowjackets during a 2025 episode.
Early life and military service
Born on 14 July 1946 to an Italian-American household in the Bronx, New York City, Pastore grew up in a flat situated above a social club in New Rochelle, New York. He finished his education at New Rochelle High School in 1964.
After graduating, he joined up and completed three years of service in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. He later returned to New York and obtained a drama qualification from Pace University, having earlier abandoned his business studies.
