Vincent Pastore, best known for starring as Salvatore "Big P****" Bonpensiero in The Sopranos, has died at the age of 80. As reported by Deadline, he was found dead in his residence in the Bronx on August 1.
Per the outlet, a close friend said that the Sopranos star's manager had not heard from him in three days. However, Pastore's driver had apparently spoken to him the day before he died.
His cause of death is unknown, however it is believed to be due to natural causes. The medical examiner is reportedly not investigating his death as suspicious.
Pastore was born in the Bronx in July 1946. He was a veteran, having fought in the Vietnam war. After graduating from Pace University with a drama degree, he flitted around working as a limo driver whilst performing in community plays.
The Sopranos star was well known for playing mobster roles, throughout his career. His big break was because of Kevin Dillion, of The Entourage.
He first had minor roles in movies in the 90s, like Goodfellas, Carlito's Way and Men of Respect. But his most iconic role was as Tony Soprano's best friend, Big P****, in The Sopranos.
He also had roles in The Practice, Son of the Beach, Queens Supreme, Hawaii Five-o, Wu-Tang: An American Saga, and One Life to Live.
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Tributes Poured in for the 'Sopranos' Legend
Tributes have poured in for the Sopranos legend. His manager, Bob McGowan, said of him, "Vinny was a great guy, he would help anyone and was very charitable."
Fans also sent their condolences and remembered Pastore and his numerous roles in media. One commenter wrote, "An absolute legend of television, rest in peace, Big P****", with another writing, "RIP to a legend who I'm sure was a great guy irl too!"
Other commenters were quick to mention specific scenes from The Sopranos. One commenter joked, "Mandela effect... could've swore he got killed and chucked off a boat in the mid 2000's," referencing Big P****'s untimely death.
Another commenter remembered their favorite epsiode of the iconic show. "RIP to one of the most memorable side characters in TV history. That Columbus Day episode alone was iconic."
Rest in peace to a legend.
