Tony Sirico, the actor best known for bringing the character Peter Paul Gualtieri, better known as Paulie Walnuts, to life on The Sopranos, has died at the age of 79. News of his passing was shared by his brother and longtime representative, who announced the loss through social media on the morning of July 8, 2022. The family expressed a mix of sorrow, pride, and gratitude for the memories they carry, and they asked for privacy as they grieve.
Tony Sirico’s family confirmed that he passed away in his home city, New York, and that he would be laid to rest at Regina Pacis Basilica in Brooklyn. The family thanked everyone for the outpouring of love, prayers, and condolences and asked for continued respect for their privacy during this difficult time.
Sirico’s portrayal of the loyal but tough gangster Paulie Walnuts became a defining element of The Sopranos, endearing him to fans around the world. In the wake of his passing, Michael Imperioli, a fellow actor from the series, paid tribute to his friend with words that reflected the deep bond they shared. Imperioli described Sirico as a person of courage and generosity, and he expressed his sorrow at the loss while celebrating the memories they created together on set. His reflections highlighted Sirico’s character and the important role he played within the show’s dynamic.
Born in the Bensonhurst neighborhood of New York City in the 1940s, Sirico grew up in a community with strong ties to Italian-American heritage. His early life and experiences would later influence the humor, grit, and realism he brought to his performances. Over the years, Sirico built a diverse career that included roles in films such as Love and Money (1982) and the Scorsese-directed One of Us (1990), as well as the comedy Mob Queen (1998) and the TV series Lilyhammer (2012). Beyond live-action work, he lent his voice to Vinny the dog in a well-known animated series, extending his presence into another realm of American entertainment.