The artist was 79 years old, according to his IMDB profile.
McGowan did not provide a cause of death, but called Sirico a “very loyal, long-term customer” and someone who “has always given to charity.”
The duo worked together for 25 years.
“Family Soprano” co-star Michael Imperioli also shared the news on his Instagram, reporting that Sirico died this Friday (8).
“Tony was like no one else: he was as tough, as loyal and as generous as anyone I’ve ever met,” wrote the actor.
“I was by his side in many things: in good times and bad, but especially in good times. And we had a lot of laughs together.”
Brooklyn-born Sirico racked up several credits in the late ’80s and ’90s, appearing in films such as “Goodfellas,” “Mighty Aphrodite” and “Mickey Blue Eyes.”
The actor, however, became well known to audiences – particularly in cable TV households – through “The Sopranos,” playing the lively but brutal when necessary Paulie Walnuts.
At the time of his audition, he was 55 years old and sleeping on his mother’s couch.
Sirico auditioned for a different character, but creator David Chase approached him with another proposal, which ended up being iconic in its own right.
“He said, ‘Do you want the good news or the bad news?’” Sirico recalled in a 2021 interview.
“I said, ‘Give me the bad news.’ He said, ‘You didn’t get Uncle Junior. But I have something in mind: Would you be willing to play a recurring role on the show? I have a character called Paulie Walnuts.’”
After the show ended, Sirico appeared on shows like “Lilyhammer,” “The Grinder” and “Family Guy,” but “Family Soprano” — thanks in part to the show’s renewed popularity through streaming — remained his most memorable work.
“We found a rhythm like Christopher and Paulie, and I’m proud to say I did my best and most fun work with my dear friend Tony,” added Imperioli.
“I will miss him forever. He is truly irreplaceable. Sending love to your family, friends and your many fans. He was loved and will never be forgotten. Heartbroken today.”
Michael Gandolfini, son of late series star James Gandolfini, also paid tribute to Sirico on Instagram.
“Tony Sirico was one of the kindest, fiercely loyal and sincere men I have ever met,” he said.
“He was always Uncle Tony to me. Tony has always been there for me and my family. I’m going to miss his pinches on my cheek and his infectious laugh so much. He was a phenomenal actor and an even better man.”
Source: CNN Brasil
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