Tony Sirico

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David Chase and Tony Sirico, May 2000 (cropped)

Tony Sirico (July 29, 1942 – July 8, 2022) was an American actor best known for his role as Paulie Gualtieri in the television series The Sopranos. Sirico was born in New York City, and he grew up in the Brooklyn neighborhood of Bensonhurst.

Early Life

Tony Sirico was born Gennaro Anthony Sirico Jr. in New York City. He was raised in the Bensonhurst neighborhood of Brooklyn. Sirico had a troubled youth and was arrested multiple times before he turned to acting.

Career

Sirico's acting career began in the 1970s. He often portrayed mobsters, which was a reflection of his real-life experiences. His first notable role was in the film Goodfellas (1990), where he played Tony Stacks. However, he is best known for his role as Paulie Gualtieri in the critically acclaimed television series The Sopranos, which aired from 1999 to 2007. His portrayal of Paulie, a loyal but volatile member of the DiMeo crime family, earned him widespread recognition and praise.

Filmography

• Goodfellas (1990) - Tony Stacks
• Mighty Aphrodite (1995) - Boxing Trainer
• Cop Land (1997) - Toy Torillo
• The Sopranos (1999–2007) - Paulie Gualtieri
• Cafe Society (2016) - Vito

Personal Life

Tony Sirico was known for his close friendship with his The Sopranos co-star James Gandolfini. He was also involved in various charitable activities, particularly those benefiting children and veterans.

Death

Tony Sirico passed away on July 8, 2022, at the age of 79. His death was widely mourned by fans and colleagues alike, who remembered him for his iconic role in The Sopranos and his contributions to the entertainment industry.

Legacy

Tony Sirico's portrayal of Paulie Gualtieri remains one of the most memorable characters in television history. His work on The Sopranos has left a lasting impact on the genre of crime dramas.

See Also

• The Sopranos
• Paulie Gualtieri
• James Gandolfini
• Goodfellas

External Links

Tony Sirico on IMDb