The Sopranos star Tony Sirico has died at 79 as his brother shares a heartfelt tribute online.
The Hollywood actor, who played Peter Paul “Paulie Walnuts” Gualtieri in The Sopranos, has passed away as his brother Robert Sirico made the announcement on Facebook.
Read More: Where The Sopranos cast are now – tragic deaths, arrest and Bruce Springsteen link
Robert posted a picture alongside his brother with a heartfelt tribute that read: “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.”
“Tony is survived by his two beloved children, Joanne Sirico Bello and Richard Sirico, grandchildren, siblings, nieces, nephews and many other relatives.
“A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated by his brother Fr. Robert Sirico at the Basilica of Regina Pacis (1230 65th Street, Brooklyn, NY) on Wednesday morning, July 13 at 10:30am.”
(Image: Facebook)
He added: “The family is deeply grateful for the many expressions of love, prayer and condolences and requests that the public respect its privacy in this time of bereavement.”
Tony has also made a number of appearances in Woody Allen’s films and has an extensive filmography.
The Hollywood star has played gangsters in movies, including: Goodfellas, Mob Queen, Mighty Aphrodite, Love and Money, Fingers, The One Man Jury, Defiance and The Last Fight, to name a few.
For the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletter by clicking here
In late 2013, he voiced the character of Vinny Griffin, who for three episodes was the family’s pet dog on Family Guy.
Tony’s co-star Michael Imperioli, who played The Sopranos’ Christopher Moltisanti, also left a heartwarming tribute to the beloved actor.
He penned: “It pains me to say that my dear friend, colleague and partner in crime, the great TONY SIRICO has passed away today. Tony was like no one else: he was as tough, as loyal and as big hearted as anyone i’ve ever known.”
(Image: Getty Images)
He added: “I was at his side through so much: through good times and bad. But mostly good. And we had a lot of laughs. 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.
“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.”
READ NEXT:
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
