Big Pussy Bonpensiero

Grew up… with his friends Tony Soprano, Paulie Gualtieri and Silvio Dante. Big Pussy has been there since the very beginning of Tony’s career. They’re more than mere business partners; they have a special bond.

Living… on a budget in Northern New Jersey. Pussy is trying to support his wife and three children, which becomes more and more difficult after Tony passed him up for a promotion. As Big Pussy phrases his need for cash, “President Franklin is my best friend.” His money woes may undermine his friendship with Tony.

Profession… “made man” and soldier for the DiMeo crime family. On the books, Big Pussy owns Bonpensiero Bros. Body Shop, but his real income comes from doing Tony Soprano’s dirty deeds. Recently, he’s had to start up his own heroin business on the side just to keep his bank account afloat. His kids’ college bills at Villanova are bleeding him dry. But dealing heroin is dangerous, and doing so without the protection or even approval of the family could prove a disaster.

Interests… his little French poodle. Big Pussy cares about his dog nearly as much as he cares about his wife and family. 

Relationship Status… married. Big Pussy and his wife, Angela, got married back in the ‘70s. Pussy is proud of the life that they’ve made together and is willing to do almost anything to sustain it.

Challenge… earning enough to maintain his standard of living. Pussy knows that his mafia colleagues aren’t happy with his side heroin business. They know that it’s far too risky, but Big Pussy has a lot on the line. He wants his children to have a college education (at pricey Villanova) and comfortable lives. If that means he has to take potentially dangerous chances, he’s willing to do so – and live with the consequences.

Personality… kind-hearted and likable. Pussy is also big and tough, though he seems to be a bit more fragile than usual these days. “Don’t make me laugh,” he tells Tony. “It kills my back.”