Tony Sirico, who played the impeccably groomed mobster Paulie Walnuts in "The Sopranos" and brought his tough-guy swagger to films including "Goodfellas," died Friday. He was 79.
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Sirico died at an assisted living facility in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, said his manager, Bob McGowen. There was no immediate information on the cause of death.
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A statement from Sirico's family confirmed the death of Gennaro Anthony "Tony" Sirico "with great sadness
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But with incredible pride, love and a whole lot of fond memories.
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McGowan, who represented Sirico for more than two decades, recalled him as "loyal and giving," with a strong philanthropic streak.
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That included helping ex-soldiers' causes, which hit home for the Army veteran, his manager said.
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Steven Van Zandt, who played opposite Sirico as fellow mobster Silvio Dante on "The Sopranos," saluted him on Twitter as "legendary."
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"A larger than life character on and off screen. Gonna miss you a lot my friend," the actor and musician said.
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Sirico is survived by daughter Joanne Sirico Bello; son Richard Sirico; his brother, Robert Sirico, a priest; and other relatives.
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Michael Imperioli, who portrayed Christopher Moltisanti on "The Sopranos," called Sirico his "dear friend, colleague and partner in crime."