Charley Scalies Jr., Veteran Actor of "The Wire" and "The Sopranos," Passes Away at 84
Charley Scalies Jr., a character actor whose performances graced some of the most iconic television dramas of the late 20th and early 21st centuries, has died at the age of 84. Scalies, known for his memorable roles on "The Wire," "The Sopranos," and "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," passed away peacefully on May 1st after a prolonged battle with Alzheimer’s disease, according to an obituary released by his family.
While Scalies built a respected career on screen and stage, his family emphasized that his greatest role was that of a devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend. They described his life as "a rich blend of professional achievement, creative passion, and a true joy for life," highlighting the importance of family and personal connections alongside his artistic pursuits. USA TODAY has been contacted for further details.
Scalies’ journey in the world of entertainment began with stage performances, showcasing his talent and versatility. His transition to film came in 1995 with a role in the Al Pacino movie "Two Bits," marking an early milestone in his screen career. However, it was his work on television that truly cemented his place in the hearts of audiences.
In Season 2 of HBO’s critically acclaimed crime drama "The Wire," Scalies delivered a standout performance as Thomas "Horseface" Pakusa, an incarcerated former cargo checker from labor union IBS Local 1514. He brought a nuanced portrayal to the character, capturing the grit and complexities of life within the criminal justice system. "Horseface" was a memorable player in the grand tapestry of the Baltimore docks saga, a testament to Scalies’ ability to inhabit a role fully and leave a lasting impression.
A year later, in 2004, Scalies appeared in another landmark HBO crime drama, "The Sopranos." He played Coach Molinaro, Tony Soprano’s high school football coach, adding a touch of nostalgic realism to the series. This role allowed Scalies to tap into the formative experiences of the iconic mob boss, providing a glimpse into the past that shaped Tony’s character.
Beyond these two defining roles, Scalies’ television credits included an appearance on the series "Homicide: Life on the Street," further demonstrating his commitment to portraying authentic and compelling characters in the crime drama genre. He also contributed to a diverse range of films, including Terry Gilliam’s "12 Monkeys" (1995), Barry Levinson’s "Liberty Heights" (1999), and Kevin Smith’s "Jersey Girl" (2004), showcasing his adaptability and willingness to explore different types of roles.
Scalies also made multiple appearances on "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," a testament to his enduring presence in the world of television. He played Bert Ferrara in 2006 and Dock Foreman in 2008, the latter of which was among his final acting credits. His role on "Cold Case" as Rusty Jenkins rounded out his television work.
Despite his extensive and varied acting career, Scalies’ family emphasized that his "favorite audience was always seated around the dinner table." This sentiment underscores the importance he placed on his personal life and the joy he derived from spending time with his loved ones. He was a family man first and foremost, and his dedication to his family was unwavering.
Before embarking on his acting career, Scalies led a successful career as a business executive and consulting firm founder. This background suggests a life of diverse interests and accomplishments, reflecting his intellectual curiosity and entrepreneurial spirit. His foray into acting later in life demonstrates a willingness to pursue his passions and embrace new challenges.
Charley Scalies Jr. is survived by his wife, Angeline Scalies, and his five children: Charles Scalies III, Angeline Kogut, Anthony Scalies, Christa Ann Scalies, and Anne Marie Scalies. He also leaves behind four grandchildren, who will undoubtedly cherish the memories they shared with their beloved grandfather. His legacy lives on through his family, who will remember him not only for his professional achievements but also for his warmth, kindness, and unwavering love.
The passing of Charley Scalies Jr. marks the loss of a talented and versatile actor who contributed to some of the most significant television and film productions of his time. His performances on "The Wire" and "The Sopranos" will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come, and his dedication to his family will serve as an inspiration to all who knew him. He will be remembered as a man who lived a life filled with passion, creativity, and, above all, love.
