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Remembering Charley Scalies: A Beloved Character Actor
The world of acting mourns the loss of Charley Scalies, a talented character actor best known for his roles in the iconic television series The Wire and The Sopranos. He passed away peacefully at the age of 84 on May 1, 2025, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. His death leaves a void in the hearts of many, but his memorable performances and warm personality will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come.
A Life Rich in Experience
Born Charles J. Scalies Jr. in Philadelphia on July 19, 1940, Charley’s early life laid the groundwork for his diverse career. Growing up above his father's pool hall, he honed his natural charisma by entertaining patrons with jokes and impressions. This early exposure to performance laid the foundation for his future in the arts.
- Early Career: Before becoming a well-known actor, Charley had a successful career in business. He worked as a director of sales and contracts at Clifton Precision and later ran his own consulting firm, demonstrating remarkable versatility and entrepreneurial spirit.
- Return to Acting: In the early 1990s, Charley rediscovered his passion for acting. He participated in numerous community and dinner theatre productions, showcasing his talent in roles such as Nicely-Nicely Johnson in Guys & Dolls and Billy Flynn in Chicago. This return to his first love ultimately led him to screen acting.
Charley's transition to screen acting led to small but memorable roles in films like 12 Monkeys and Two Bits, alongside acclaimed actors such as Al Pacino. His television appearances spanned various shows including Homicide: Life on the Street, Law & Order, and Law & Order: SVU. However, it was his work in HBO's The Wire and The Sopranos that truly solidified his legacy.
- The Wire: Charley's portrayal of Thomas "Horseface" Pakusa, a loyal dockworker and union member in The Wire's second season, was powerful and memorable. He appeared in all twelve episodes of the season, showcasing his ability to embody a complex character with unwavering loyalty.
- The Sopranos: In the critically acclaimed Sopranos episode "The Test Dream," he played Coach Molinaro, Tony Soprano's high school football coach, adding a poignant and memorable touch to this pivotal dream sequence.
Beyond the Screen: Family and Legacy
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Charley was, above all, a devoted family man. His obituary describes him as "best known first and foremost as a husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend." His 62-year marriage to Angeline M. Scalies, whom he described as "the true love and joy of his life," is a testament to his dedication and love for his family. He is survived by his wife, five children, and four grandchildren.
Charley's dedication to family extended to his personal values, emphasizing the importance of family unity, respect, hard work, and guiding his children toward self-sufficiency. This commitment to family life underscores the depth and richness of his character, a quality that shines through even in his screen performances.
Remembering a True Talent
Charley Scalies’ death marks a significant loss for the entertainment world. His contributions to television and film, along with his unwavering dedication to his family, will be remembered by all who knew him. His quiet strength, genuine warmth, and remarkable talent left an indelible mark on the industry and the lives he touched. Though his time on screen has ended, his memorable performances will live on, preserving his legacy as a truly beloved character actor.
While his funeral service was held privately, donations in his memory can be made to the Alzheimer's Association, a fitting tribute to a man whose life was tragically cut short by this devastating disease.
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