Vincent Pastore, the actor who played Salvatore "Big Pussy" Bonpensiero in The Sopranos, was found dead in his apartment in The Bronx, New York, on Saturday, August 1. He was 80.
A neighbour discovered Pastore after he had not been heard from for three days, according to reports. Police are said to be investigating his death, as reported by Deadline.
Career in gangster films
Pastore first gained recognition through supporting roles in gangster films such as Goodfellas and Men of Respect, before taking more substantial parts in 1995's The Jerky Boys: The Movie and the HBO television film Gotti the following year.
In Gotti, he appeared alongside Tony Sirico, Frank Vincent and Dominic Chianese - all of whom would reunite with him when he joined the cast of The Sopranos.
The Sopranos role and other work
Pastore portrayed Tony Soprano's closest friend Salvatore "Big Pussy" Bonpensiero, who was infamously killed by Tony, Silvio and Paulie for being an FBI informant.
His other television credits include numerous appearances on Law & Order, plus leading roles in Hawaii Five-0 and Queen Supreme. During the 2000s, he also appeared on reality shows including Celebrity Apprentice, Dancing With the Stars and Celebrity Fit Club.
Pastore's manager Bob McGowan said in a statement: "Vinnie was a great guy, he would help anyone and was very charitable."
Pastore is survived by his daughter Renee.
