Bob McGowan, who managed Pastore during and after his time on The Sopranos, said that he learned of the actor’s death on Saturday from fellow cast member Vincent Curatola.

According to McGowan, Pastore was found dead at his home on New York’s City Island after friends and colleagues had been unable to reach him for several days.

He said he had been trying to contact the actor about a potential acting role.

Describing Pastore as “the most loyal client”, McGowan said he was known for his generosity and charity work, adding that he was always willing to help others.

Longtime talent representative Robert Attermann, who worked with Pastore for more than three decades, said the actor would be remembered not only for his iconic role in The Sopranos but also for his kindness and humility.

“He treated everyone with warmth and respect,” Attermann said, adding that Pastore never refused requests from fans for photographs or autographs and was passionate about mentoring aspiring actors.

Actor Michael Imperioli, who appeared alongside Pastore in The Sopranos, paid tribute on Instagram, recalling years of working and travelling together.

“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 wrote, describing Pastore as a “kind-hearted brother” devoted to his family and friends.

Pastore began his acting career in the 1980s and appeared in several acclaimed films, including Goodfellas and Awakenings in 1990.

He became widely recognised for his role as Bonpensiero, one of Tony Soprano’s closest associates who later becomes an FBI informant, appearing in 30 episodes of The Sopranos.

Born in the Bronx and raised in New Rochelle, New York, Pastore served in the US Navy during the Vietnam War before studying at Pace University.

He is survived by his daughter, Renee Pastore.