'The Wire' and 'The Sopranos' Actor Charley Scalies Dies at 84

Character actor Charley Scalies, known for his memorable roles in HBO's acclaimed series "The Wire" and "The Sopranos," passed away on Thursday, May 1, at the age of 84 in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, following a long battle with Alzheimer's disease.

Scalies made his mark in "The Wire" portraying Thomas "Horseface" Pakusa, while "Sopranos" fans remember him as Coach Molinaro. His ability to bring gritty, working-class characters to life earned him recognition among television audiences.

Before his acting career, Scalies worked as a business executive at Clifton Precision and was educated at St. Joseph's College. He later transitioned to acting, where he found success in prestigious television productions.

His daughter, Angeline M. Scalies, confirmed his passing. The family has suggested donations to the Alzheimer's Association in his memory.

Scalies joins fellow "Sopranos" alumni who have passed away, including series lead James Gandolfini. His contributions to what are widely considered two of television's greatest dramas cemented his legacy as a respected character actor in the industry.