Hollywood Bids Farewell to “The Sopranos” Star Tony Sirico

Tony Sirico at the premiere of
Tony Sirico at the premiere of "Cafe Society" in 2016. Photo by Marion Curtis/Starpix/Shutterstock (5768587da)

Tony Sirico, who made a name for himself with the role of Paulie Walnuts on The Sopranos, died at 79. The tough-guy character actor leaves an amazing legacy behind him, and many of his former co-stars and fans sent condolences to his family following his passing.

Sirico spent his final days at an assisted living facility in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. His family didn’t release a formal cause of death, but Sirico was diagnosed with dementia years prior to his passing.

“It is with great sadness, but with incredible pride, love, and a whole lot of fond memories, that the family of Gennaro Anthony ‘Tony’ Sirico wishes to inform you of his death on the morning of July 8, 2022,” reads the statement released by the actor’s family.

Following the news, many of Sirico’s on The Sopranos co-stars released statements paying tribute to the late actor. The Sopranos creator David Chase and stars Steven Van Zandt, Lorraine Bracco, Jamie Lynn Sigler, and Edie Falco celebrated his legacy, but the most emotional tribute came from his biggest partner in crime, Michael Imperioli.

“Tony was like no one else: he was as tough, as loyal and as big-hearted as anyone I’ve ever known… I will miss him forever. He is truly irreplaceable. I send love to his family, friends and his many many fans. He was beloved and will never be forgotten. Heartbroken today,” wrote Imperioli.

In addition to playing Paul “Paulie Walnuts” Gualtieri on The Sopranos, Sirico had around 80 movie and TV credits to his name, and he’s known for starring in Goodfellas, Romeo Is Bleeding, and multiple films directed by Woody Allen.