Vincent Pastore, the veteran character actor best known for portraying Salvatore “Big Pussy” Bonpensiero on HBO’s acclaimed crime drama The Sopranos, has died at the age of 80. Born in the Bronx on July 14, 1946, Pastore served in the U.S. Navy before pursuing acting later in life. Tributes quickly poured in from colleagues and friends who remembered Pastore for far more than the tough-guy characters he portrayed on screen. Fellow Sopranos cast member Michael Imperioli also honored Pastore’s warmth and kindness, recalling his devotion to friends, family and fans throughout a career that spanned more than three decades. Although he became synonymous with “Big Pussy,” Pastore remained active long after The Sopranos ended, continuing to act while frequently attending fan conventions and cast reunions.