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He
said Pastore was found in his home on New York’s City Island
after not being heard from for a few days.
McGowan said he had been trying to reach Pastore about a
possible job.
“He was the most loyal client, and he always gave to charity,”
McGowan said, “and he was the kind of guy who would help
anybody, which is rare in my business.”
Robert Attermann represented Pastore for more than 30 years,
before his time on “The Sopranos.” While Pastore will be
remembered as “Big Pussy,” he was so much more, Attermann said
in an email to the AP.
“Vinny was one of the kindest, most generous people I have ever
known,” Attermann said. “He treated everyone with warmth and
respect, never turning down a fan who wanted a photograph or an
autograph. He genuinely appreciated the people who supported him
and always made them feel valued.”
Attermann said Pastore loved being an actor and was passionate
about his craft while always encouraging young actors, “taking
the time to offer guidance and support whenever he could.”
Michael Imperioli, a longtime friend and collaborator, said on
Instagram that it seemed as though he had known pastore 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,” Imperioli said. “Vinny was a kind-hearted brother who
cared deeply about his family and friends. I will miss him
always.”
Pastore appeared in movies dating back to the 1980s including
roles in big films such as “Goodfellas” and “Awakenings,” both
in 1990.
He often played gangsters. And it was one of those roles he is
best known for: his 30-episode run as Bonpensiero, the friend of
Tony Soprano who becomes an FBI informant.
Pastore was born in the Bronx and grew up in suburban New
Rochelle, New York. He enlisted in the Navy during the Vietnam
War and later attended Pace University, according to his
biography on IMDb.
He is survived by his daughter, Renee Pastore.
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