Charley Scalies, 'The Sopranos' and 'The Wire' Actor, Passes Away at 84

Charley Scalies, the actor known for his memorable roles in acclaimed television series such as The Sopranos and The Wire, has died at the age of 84. News of his passing has resonated across social media, particularly within dedicated fan communities on platforms like Reddit, where admirers have shared their condolences and fond memories of his performances.

Scalies, often recognized for his portrayal of Coach Molinaro in The Sopranos and Thomas "Horseface" Pakusa in The Wire, had a career that spanned several decades. His contributions to television have left an indelible mark, endearing him to viewers who appreciated his character portrayals and his ability to bring authenticity to his roles.

Charley Scalies in 'The Sopranos' and 'The Wire'.

The Reddit community r/thesopranos, a hub for fans of the iconic series, has been particularly active in sharing tributes and reflecting on Scalies' impact. One user, marksaun_666, shared the initial news, sparking a thread of memories and respects: "Charley Scalies aka Coach Molinaro has passed away."

Another user, Parking_Egg_8150, posted a link to Scalies' obituary, noting his age with a poignant quote from the show: "84 years old, just a fucking kid. Sad when they go young like that." This post also highlighted Scalies as one of the few actors to appear in both The Sopranos and The Wire, linking to an interview where he discussed his experiences working on both shows.

ClarenceWalnuts99 noted Scalies' passing and his role as Coach Molinaro, prompting a discussion about other recently deceased cast members. The user wrote, "Charley Scalies who played Coach Molinaro passed away 84 from Alzheimer’s May 1, 2025. Guess he was not prepared (or another tooth pick). RIP Coach! Any other cast member die recently?"

Remembering Charley Scalies' Roles

Scalies' performances in The Sopranos and The Wire, while not always in leading roles, were significant and memorable. His ability to embody characters with depth and authenticity made him a respected figure in the television industry.

• Coach Molinaro in The Sopranos: He appeared in Tony Soprano's dream sequence.
• Thomas "Horseface" Pakusa in The Wire: A memorable presence throughout Season 2.

Thin-Pool-8025 provided a comprehensive list of actors who appeared in both The Sopranos and The Wire, emphasizing Scalies' contribution: "Charley Scalies - Appeared in every episode of Season 2 of the Wire as Horseface Pasuka. He made a brief but memorable appearance in the Sopranos as Coach Molinaro in Tony’s dream during Season 5 Episode 11 (The Test Dream)."

Charley Scalies' work extended beyond these two iconic shows. He also appeared in other television series, showcasing his versatility and commitment to his craft. According to Deadline, Scalies passed away following a battle with Alzheimer's.

Tributes and Fan Reactions

The news of Charley Scalies’ death has prompted an outpouring of tributes and memories from fans. Social media platforms are filled with messages celebrating his life and work. Here are some notable reactions:

• Reddit (r/thesopranos): Fans shared their favorite scenes and quotes featuring Scalies, reminiscing about his contributions to the show's humor and drama.
• Reddit (r/TheWire): Discussions highlighted his role as "Horseface" and his impact on the show's portrayal of Baltimore's port community.
• Other Platforms: Many users acknowledged his ability to bring authenticity to his roles, making him a beloved figure in both The Sopranos and The Wire communities.

A younger Charley Scalies.

Charley Scalies: A Lasting Legacy

Charley Scalies' death marks the end of an era for fans of The Sopranos and The Wire. His performances, though sometimes brief, were always impactful, adding depth and authenticity to the stories being told. As fans revisit his work, his legacy as a talented and respected actor will endure.

Scalies' portrayal of Horseface Pakusa in The Wire was particularly memorable. As highlighted in a Reddit discussion, he played a significant role in Season 2, contributing to the gritty realism of the Baltimore docks. TexasDD, in a rewatch and discussion thread on r/TheWire, noted Scalies' performance as one of the best in Season 2 Episode 9, "Stray Rounds."

A photograph of Charley Scalies.

The actor's ability to bring such characters to life, with a blend of realism and charisma, is a testament to his talent and dedication. As fans and colleagues alike mourn his passing, his contributions to television history will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come.

Actors Who Appeared in Both 'The Sopranos' and 'The Wire'

Charley Scalies was among a select group of actors who lent their talents to both The Sopranos and The Wire. Here is a list of some of these actors and their roles:

1. Michael K. Williams: Omar Little in The Wire, Ray-Ray in The Sopranos.
2. Michael B. Jordan: Wallace in The Wire, Extra in The Sopranos.
3. J.D. Williams: Bodie in The Wire, Truck Robber in The Sopranos.
4. John Doman: Major William Rawls in The Wire, District Attorney in The Sopranos.
5. Charley Scalies: Horseface Pasuka in The Wire, Coach Molinaro in The Sopranos.
6. Brian Anthony Wilson: Vernon Holly in The Wire, Bookie in The Sopranos.