'Sopranos' Actor Vinny Vella <br />Dead at Age 72 According to Vella's son, Vinny Vella Jr., the actor died on Feb. 20 at home, following a battle with liver cancer. Vinny Vella Jr., via TMZ Vella was best known <br />for his roles in gangster <br />films and television. Popular characters he played include, James "Jimmy" Petrille on 'The Sopranos' and Artie Piscano in 'Casino.' Some of his other <br />film credits include, 'Donnie Brasco,' 'Kissing Jessica Stein,' <br />'Kill the Irishman,' 'Mambo Cafe,' <br />'This Thing of Ours' and 'Find Me Guilty.' Erik Hoover, Vella's rep, via Fox News
