Jerry Adler, Sopranos Star, Dead at 96
Sopranos fans are mourning a huge loss.
Vincent Pastore—best known for his role as Salvatore “Big P—y” Bonpensiero in the HBO series—has died, his managers Robert Attermann and Bob McGowan confirmed to E! News on Aug. 1. He was 80.
“I had the privilege of representing Vinny for more than 30 years, long before The Sopranos made him a household name,” Attermann told E! News in a statement. “To the world, he will always be remembered as the unforgettable ‘Big P—y,’ but to those of us who knew him, he was so much more.”
According to Attermann, Pastore, a prominent figure in mob dramas in both film and television, was “one of the kindest, most generous people I have ever known,” who “treated everyone with warmth and respect, never turning down a fan who wanted a photograph or an autograph.”
McGowan called Pastore’s passing “heartbreaking,” noting that he was “so sad” over the news.
Throughout his nearly 40-year-long acting career, Pastore became known for his performances as Italian-American gangsters, or mafiosos, including roles in Goodfellas (1990), Carlito’s Way (1993) and Gotti (1996).
According to McGowan, Pastore—dad to daughter Renee Pastore with ex-wife Nancy Berke—was discovered by his friends at home in the Bronx, N.Y. on Aug. 1. Per Attermann, he passed away on Aug. 1 or July 31. The cause of death has yet to be determined.
Yet, his breakout role came in 1999 when he cast as Big P—y on The Sopranos, a notable figure in the show’s first two seasons. Pastore’s character was a member of Tony Soprano’s (James Galdofini) inner circle turned law enforcement informant, with his hidden identity resulting in his execution. The scene, which took place in the season two finale in 2000, remains one of the crime drama’s most legendary moments.
Dia Dipasupil/WireImage
And like the memorable scene, Pastore’s legacy will continue to live on.
“He loved being an actor,” Attermann continued in his statement to E! News. “He was passionate about his craft and was always encouraging, respectful, and generous with young actors, taking the time to offer guidance and support whenever he could.
“He leaves behind a legacy that extends far beyond his memorable performances,” Attermann added. “He will be greatly missed and never forgotten. May his memory be a blessing.”
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