Sopranos actor Vincent Pastore, who played 'Big Pussy', dies aged 80

Quick summary

Vincent Pastore, the actor best known for playing FBI informant 'Big Pussy' Bonpensiero in The Sopranos, has died at age 80 at his Bronx home. Police found no indication of criminality in his death.

Why it matters

If you're a fan of The Sopranos or prestige television from the 1990s-2000s, you've lost a piece of that cultural moment—Pastore's character's death in season two was one of the show's most talked-about episodes. His passing marks the exit of another key figure from the groundbreaking series that defined a generation of TV drama.

Key takeaways

• ›Vincent Pastore was found dead at his home in the Bronx, New York City.
• ›He was best known for playing Salvatore 'Big Pussy' Bonpensiero, Tony Soprano's best friend who became an FBI informant.
• ›His character's death in The Sopranos season two was widely considered one of the show's most memorable storylines.
• ›Police found no indication of criminality in connection with his death.