Tony was best known for his role as mobster Peter Paul "Paulie Walnuts" Gualtieri on The Sopranos. The cause of death was not known.
Michael Imperioli, who played Christopher Moltisanti on The Sopranos, paid tribute to him on his social media accounts. Tony was different from everyone else. He was a big hearted and tough man.
He said he did a lot of his best work with Tony. I will never be able to forget him. He is the most important person in the world. I am sending love to his family and friends. He was loved and will always be remembered. Today was a sad day.
Tony was born in New York City on July 29, 1942 and grew up in Brooklyn. Goodfellas, Mob Queen, Love and Money, Fingers, The One Man, Cop Land and Mickey Blue Eyes were some of the films he played mobsters in. He played a policeman in the films Dead Presidents and Deconstructing Harry before he was cast in The Sopranos. He tried out for the role of Uncle Junior.
The family's pet dog was featured in three episodes of Family Guy in 2013). Kojak was one of his TV show guest appearances.
I have known Tony for many years and he was one of the sweetest men I have ever met. He was an uncle to me and Tony was always there for me and my family. His laugh and pinches on my cheek will be missed. He was an excellent actor and a great man. My heart goes out to his family, friends, and all of his fans, because he touched many with his gift. Thank you Tony for all the joy you brought to us. You will not be around anymore.
Paolo Per Uomo, his own cologne brand, was launched in 2008.
He is survived by his two children and many relatives.