According to Deadline, the star was found dead in his apartment in The Bronx, New York, on Saturday by a neighbour, after not being heard from for three days.
The circumstances surrounding Pastore's death are under investigation, the outlet stated.
After news of Pastore's death was made public, his manager Bob McGowan said in a statement:
"Vinnie was a great guy, he would help anyone and was very charitable".
Michael Imperioli, a longtime friend and collaborator with Pastore, said on Instagram that it seemed as though he had known Pastore forever.
"We did lots of work together and travelled all over the USA as well as Italy and Australia. Lots of good times. Lots of laughs," Imperioli said.
"Vinny was a kind hearted brother who cared deeply about his family and friends. I will miss him always."
Prior to becoming an actor, Pastore fought in the Vietnam War.
However, he later graduated from Pace University with a degree in drama.
He initially found fame with minor roles in mob movies such as Goodfellas and Men of Respect, but then took on larger roles in 1995 feature The Jerky Boys: The Movie, and HBO TV movie Gotti the following year.
In Gotti, he appeared alongside Tony Sirico, Frank Vincent, and Dominic Chianese - all of whom would become co-stars once again when he starred in The Sopranos.
Pastore played Tony Soprano's best pal Salvatore 'Big Pussy' Bonpensiero in the program, who was famously murdered by murdered by Tony, Silvio and Paulie for being an FBI informant.
Pastore's other TV credits include multiple appearances on Law & Order, as well as starring roles in shows such as Hawaii Five-0 and Queen Supreme.
He also appeared on multiple reality TV shows in the 2000s, including Celebrity Apprentice, Dancing With the Stars and Celebrity Fit Club.
Pastore is survived by his daughter Renee.
with AP
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