Charley Scalies, Beloved Actor of ‘The Wire’ and ‘The Sopranos,’ Passes Away at 84
Charley Scalies, known for his poignant performances in iconic HBO series The Wire and The Sopranos, has passed away at the age of 84. He succumbed to complications related to Alzheimer’s disease on May 1 at a nursing facility in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania.
Scalies is best remembered for his role as dockworker Thomas "Horseface" Pakusa in The Wire, where he appeared in every episode of the show’s critically acclaimed second season, released in 2003. Reflecting on his characters, Scalies once remarked, “Horseface lives inside of me,” highlighting his connection to the roles he portrayed.
In The Sopranos, he captivated audiences as a high school sports coach in a memorable dream sequence opposite James Gandolfini. A proud family man, Scalies was celebrated not only for his acting skills but also as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. His touching obituary emphasized his genuine joy for life, stating that his favorite audience was always “around the dinner table.”
Scalies leaves behind his beloved wife of 62 years, Angeline, along with five children and numerous grandchildren. In a heartfelt tribute, his daughter Anne Marie expressed that he instilled in them the values of love, respect, and hard work, underscoring his commitment to family.
Scalies’ career spanned more than just his most notable roles; he also appeared in the film Two Bits alongside Al Pacino and had roles in Homicide: Life on the Street and Law & Order. Transitioning from a career in sales to acting, he was a natural entertainer, known for his ability to tell engaging stories.
The legacy of Charley Scalies will endure through his family and the unforgettable characters he brought to life on screen.
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