The Sopranos actor Tony Sirico has passed away at the age of 79 - with the star's brother leading tribute to the actor.
The American actor was best known for playing Peter Paul 'Paulie Walnuts' Gualtier in the hit crime series that ran from 1999 until 2007.
Tony's brother, Robert Sirico, made the announcement of his death via Facebook on Friday, sharing a photo of them together alongside a heartfelt message.
Robert wrote: "It is with great sadness, but with incredible pride, love and a whole lot of fond memories, that the family of Gennaro Anthony “Tony” Sirico wishes to inform you of his death on the morning of July 8, 2022."
"Tony is survived by his two beloved children, Joanne Sirico Bello and Richard Sirico, grandchildren, siblings, nieces, nephews and many other relatives.
"A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated by his brother Fr. Robert Sirico at the Basilica of Regina Pacis (1230 65th Street, Brooklyn, NY) on Wednesday morning, July 13 at 10:30am.
"The family is deeply grateful for the many expressions of love, prayer and condolences and requests that the public respect its privacy in this time of bereavement.
"Memorial donations may be made in his honor to Wounded Warriors, St. Jude’s Hospital and the Acton Institute."
Michael Imperioli, who played Christopher Moltisanti in The Sopranos, was one of the first to pay tribute online.
Taking to Instagram, he shared a snap of himself and Tony together.
He wrote: "It pains me to say that my dear friend, colleague and partner in crime, the great TONY SIRICO has passed away today.
"Tony was like no one else: he was as tough, as loyal and as big hearted as anyone i’ve ever known.
"I was at his side through so much: through good times and bad. But mostly good. And we had a lot of laughs.
"We found a groove as Christopher and Paulie and I am proud to say I did a lot of my best and most fun work with my dear pal Tony."
He added: "I will miss him forever. He is truly irreplaceable. I send love to his family, friends and his many many fans. He was beloved and will never be forgotten. Heartbroken today."
Devastated fans responded to the post to share their own shock and sadness over the news.
One fan wrote: "Pine Barrens is my favorite ep of Sopranos and you 2 had such great chemistry. RIP."
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Another wrote: "So many blessings to him as he makes his way, and to you and yours."
While another messaged: "Sending so much love Michael. He really was iconic."
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