The Tragic Death Of Sopranos Star Tony Sirico
Throughout the early 2000s, HBO fans flocked to their television sets to consume the award-winning series "The Sopranos." The crime drama, which ran from 1999 to 2007, follows family patriarch and renowned mobster Tony Soprano as he tries to balance his home and criminal lives. While the show has been lauded for its raw storylines and outstanding production value, viewers and critics also praised its talented set of actors.
One of the standout stars of the series was Tony Sirico, who played Tony Soprano's faithful henchman Paulie "Walnuts" Gualtieri. For six seasons, the beloved actor delivered unforgettable comedic and moments that have left lasting marks on pop culture enthusiasts. Alongside his "Sopranos" tenure, Sirico also landed other roles in similar gangster projects like "Goodfellas," "Love and Money," and "Mob Queen." In a 2001 interview with Rolling Stone, the actor shared his thoughts on being typecast in mob-inspired roles, stating: "And do I mind being stereotyped? Absolutely not. I've paid rent, I take care of me and Ma."
Sadly, on July 8, fans were saddened when Variety confirmed Sirico died at the age of 79. In a statement to the publication, the actor's manager, Bob McGowan, described the beloved talent as "a very loyal and great client," while also noting how he always helped out people in need. Since the news of his passing, Sirico's industry peers and fans took to social media to deliver heartfelt tributes.
Tributes roll in for Tony Sirico after his death
Shortly after the news of Tony Sirico's death, fans flocked to social media with heartfelt tributes to the beloved actor. One fan wrote: "This one hurts man, rest in peace Tony Sirico, one of the greatest characters ever in television, you will live on through Paulie." Another fan tweeted: "I hope he and James Gandolfini are hunting interior decorators in the next life." Fans weren't the only people praising the actor on social media. Sirico's "Sopranos" costars, Michael Imperioli and Lorraine Bracco, also shared heartwarming posts regarding their time with the actor.
"We found a groove as Christopher and Paulie and I am proud to say I did a lot of my best and most fun work with my dear pal Tony," Imperioli wrote via Instagram. "He was beloved and will never be forgotten." Bracco echoed similar sentiments in her own post. "I adore Tony Sirico. A stand-up guy who always had my back and who loved my children and my parents," it said. She went on to say that she had "a lifetime of memories" with Sirico, adding, "I hope he's in heaven cracking everybody up now. love you, my pal."
The acclaimed talent is survived by his two children and their expansive families.