Charley Scalies, the veteran actor known for his memorable roles in hit series The Sopranos and The Wire, has died at the age of 84. His daughter, Anne Marie Scalies, confirmed the sad news to The Hollywood Reporter.
Scalies passed away peacefully on Thursday, while receiving care at a nursing home in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania. He had been battling Alzheimer’s disease, a heartbreaking diagnosis that had increasingly impacted his health in recent years.
Iconic Roles in Cult-Favorite Series
Best remembered by TV fans for his role as Thomas “Horseface” Pakusa in The Wire, Scalies appeared in 12 episodes of the Baltimore-set crime drama. His portrayal of the stevedore union member left a lasting impression on viewers during the show’s acclaimed second season.
Scalies also left his mark on The Sopranos, where he played Coach Molinaro—Tony Soprano’s former football coach—adding depth to the backstory of one of television’s most complex antiheroes. His performances helped define the richly layered worlds that made both HBO series so beloved.
A Career Built on Authenticity
Charley Scalies was praised for his grounded, working-class portrayals. Fellow actors and fans alike have taken to social media to honor his contributions to American television. His ability to bring warmth, grit, and subtle complexity to his roles earned him a special place in the hearts of many.
Though not always in the spotlight, Scalies’ work on two of the most acclaimed shows in modern TV history has secured him a legacy of authenticity and emotional impact.
Family and Legacy
His daughter Anne Marie remembered her father as “a devoted family man and a proud craftsman of his art.” She said, “He found joy in every performance, big or small, and brought sincerity to every line he delivered.”
Charley Scalies is survived by his children, grandchildren, and fans who appreciated his subtle strength on screen. His passing marks the end of a life deeply committed to storytelling.
In the wake of his death, tributes continue to pour in from across the entertainment industry, celebrating the life of a man who quietly helped shape the golden era of television.
