Mob Wives Star Big Ang Dies At Age 55

Reality television star Big Ang, who hosted gay nights at her Staten Island nightclub, has died of cancer at the age of 55. USA Today reports:

Angela “Big Ang” Raiola, star of VH1 reality show Mob Wives, died early Thursday morning at 55. She died in a New York City hospital among friends and family, after nearly a year-long battle with throat cancer.

Raiola’s family broke the news of her death to her fans from her Twitter account, writing that she had “peacefully ended her battle with cancer.” “YOU (fans) were some of the most special people in her world, and she loved you immensely,” the statement attached to the tweet reads. “Thank you for your love, prayers, and unconditional support of Angela right to the end.”

Raiola, nicknamed Big Ang for her nearly 6-foot height, was a popular cast member on Mob Wives, despite not actually being a “mob wife.” Her connection to that world was through her uncle, the late Salvatore “Sally Dogs” Lombardi, a reputed captain of the Genovese crime family. But despite that she was known as a peacemaker on the show, helping other cast members through disputes. Her popularity led to her getting her own spin-off reality show, Big Ang, which was later retooled as Miami Monkey, although neither version of the show was on the air very long.

A couple of years ago I attended Big Ang’s book launch party, which was largely attended by the gay press, her cast mates, and a number of menacing looking men in tailored suits. It was an interesting evening to say the least.