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Sopranos Star Recalls Shocking Gandolfini Death News
12 Aug
Summary
- Michael Imperioli learned of James Gandolfini's death from co-star Steve Schirripa.
- Gandolfini died unexpectedly in Rome from a heart attack in June 2013.
- Imperioli noted Gandolfini was entering a happy new phase of his life.
Michael Imperioli recently recounted the moment he learned of his Sopranos co-star James Gandolfini's unexpected death. Imperioli received the news in June 2013 from Steve Schirripa, who played Bobby Bacala on the acclaimed HBO series. Gandolfini tragically passed away in Rome, Italy, due to a heart attack.
Initially, Imperioli, who portrayed Christopher Moltisanti, thought the news might be a hoax, a common occurrence with internet rumors at the time. He confirmed Gandolfini's passing with their mutual lawyer. Imperioli had seen Gandolfini just two weeks prior at a movie premiere, noting he seemed happy and optimistic.
Imperioli reflected that Gandolfini was entering a new, hopeful phase of his life, having welcomed a daughter and with The Sopranos having concluded six years earlier. This made his sudden death feel even more tragic, as he was looking forward to the future.
The Sopranos, which aired from 1999 to 2007, remains a celebrated television series. Co-star Steven Van Zandt had previously shared that Gandolfini often contemplated quitting the demanding show. Gandolfini earned three Emmy Awards for his iconic role as Tony Soprano.
