Deadline has reported that after the up passing of Soprano’s actor Vincent Pastore (Revolver, Carlitos Way), tributes from his former cast members have poured in. Pastore played Salvatore “Big Pussy” Bonpensiero on the acclaimed series for its entire run from 1999 to 2007. His character served as one of the most crucial of the entire series. He is an extremely close confidant of Tony before his eventual death by Tony’s own hands after discovering that Big Pussy has become an FBI informant. Pussy’s death serves as a millstone on Tony’s conscience as he continues his descent into depravity.
Jamie Lynn Sigler (Entourage, I Do) , who played the daughter of Tony Soprano, Meadow, wrote, “A wonderful actor, a kind and loving man. It was an honor to know you and work with you,” per Deadline
Michael Imperioli (White Lotus, The Lovely Bones) , who played Tony’s nephew Christopher Moltisanti, also shared kind words via an Instagram post. “Our beloved friend and collaborator VINCENT PASTORE has passed away. This is a hard one for us; it seems like I’ve known Vinny forever. We did lots of work together and traveled all over the USA as well as Italy and Australia. Lots of good times. Lots of laughs. Vinny was a kind-hearted brother who cared deeply about his family and friends. I will miss him always,” according to Deadline.
Lorraine Blanco (Chained Heart, Hellhole), who played Jennifer Melfi, the psychiatrist who serves as part of the catalyst for the series, wrote, “Such a funny & charming man… just a beautiful soul. Absolutely heartbreaking,” via Deadline.
One of the most interesting antagonists of The Sopranos, Ralph Cipereto’s actor Joe Pantoliano (Memento, The Matrix), said, “God bless him. He made it to 80. Vin and I were never actually on set together, but through our Sopranos family I got to know him over the years. I always liked him. He had this incredible appetite for the business, and he never lost that spark. That always made me smile. My heart goes out to his family, his friends, and everyone who loved him. Rest easy, Vin,” per Deadline.
Steven Van Zandt (Lilihammer, Running Scared), who played once buddy before eventual murder accomplice Silvio, posted to X, “Another irreplaceable brother gone. It never gets any easier. Travel well Vincenzo,” per Deadline. The other brother he was likely referring to was James Gandolfini (Killing Them Softly, Get Shorty), the much-beloved actor and titular anti-hero of The Sopranos. Gandolfini passed away in 2013 of a heart attack.
The cause of death for Pastore is still unclear. His body was discovered at his Bronx residence by a neighbor after several of those close to him had not heard from him for several days.