Vincent Pastore drops out of Dancing With the Stars

Vincent Pastore, former star of The Sopranos, withdrew from the reality show Dancing With the Stars on Thursday. Pastore cited the physical challenges of the competition as his reason for leaving, according to Zap2It.

"When I initially committed to joining 'Dancing with the Stars,' I didn't realize just how physically demanding it would be for me," said the 60-year-old Pastore, who played mobster "Big Pussy" Bonpensiero on The Sopranos. "Unable to put forth my best effort, I felt it appropriate to step aside and give someone else the opportunity."

Pastore was partnered with Edyta Sliwinksa for this year’s compeition.

A spokesman for the show said that all those involved appreciated Pastore’s decision to drop out now, rather than later, and for recognizing his physical limitations.

No word yet on Pastore’s replacement, or if the poor guy will be given any extra time to catch up with those already in rehearsals.