The Sopranos star is dead: Paul Herman, famous for a variety of gangster films including Goodfellas and The Irishman, dies on his 76th birthday – as co-star Michael Imperioli leads the tributes and says he’s ‘a hell of a actor’ .
Sopranos star Paul Herman has died aged 76 on his birthday.
Herman, who starred in numerous gangster films including Goodfellas and The Irishman, died on March 29 and his cause of death has not yet been released.
The actor was best known for playing the role of “Beansie” Gaeta on the legendary American crime television series The Sopranos.
Sad news: Paul Herman passed away on his birthday at the age of 76.
His death was confirmed by fellow star Michael Imperioli – who played Christopher Moltisanti on the HBO crime drama.
Imperioli said on Instagram: “Our friend and colleague Paul Herman has passed away. Paulie was just a great guy.
‘A first class storyteller and narrator and a damn good actor. Goodfellas, Once Upon a Time in America, The Irishman and of course The Sopranos are some of the highlights.
Iconic: The actor was best known for playing the role of ‘Beansie’ Gaeta on the iconic American crime television series The Sopranos
“Paulie has lived around the corner from me for the last few years and I’m glad we were able to spend some time together before he left.
“I will miss him. Lots of love to his family, friends and community of actors and filmmakers.’
Herman was last seen as Whispers DiTullio in Martin Scorsese’s crime epic The Irishman (2019).
He also played Randy in David O. Russell’s Silver Linings Playbook (2012).
Co-star: Herman last starred as Whispers DiTullio in Martin Scorsese’s crime epic The Irishman (2019) (pictured with his co-star Robert De Niro).
One of Herman’s most memorable appearances was as a dealer in Goodfellas.
His co-star Lorraine Bracco, who played Karen Hill in Goodfellas, said: “The only one. A loving soul with a great sense of humor, Paulie Herman. REST IN PEACE.’
Meanwhile, Debi Mazar, who launched her career with a supporting role in Goodfellas, described the “long history” she had with the actor.
Frances Fisher said: “Paulie Herman – loved by everyone. From the old NYC days at Cafe Central & Columbus to the west coast evenings at Ago, Paulie always had a smile and a table.
“Decades of memories in every imaginable place and village. An actor, an equestrian, a townsman, a little health freak, bottom line, a trustworthy friend.’