'Sopranos' costars on James Gandolfini

Actor James Gandolfini, who became fixed in the public consciousness as the lead figure in the acclaimed HBO series "The Sopranos," died on June 19, 2013, at age 51. In this web exclusive, correspondent Anthony Mason talks with actors Edie Falco, Steven Van Zandt, Steve Schirripa and Michael Imperioli, along with series creator David Chase, who remember Gandolfini's achievement in creating the character of mob boss Tony Soprano; reflect on his acting skills and how he responded to fame; and recall the shock of losing him.

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[sukottoshinobe]

The fact that James experienced so much anxiety and discomfort, even being the lead in the first place, just makes the role so much sweeter. You are truly seeing the turmoil going on in him when witnessing him be Tony soprano.

[evanmichael]

David Chase's honesty was brutally refreshing. Best show EVER. 🤟❤️🤟

[DRaymore]

I do miss James Gandolfini as an actor and as a person. When his castmates said that James was very generous to other people, it reminded me what happened after 9/11 occurred. I remember some news footage that showed James on his bicycle asking the police if there was anything he could do to help. That showed me that James had a big heart for anyone in need. Thank you, James, for your kindness and love. Rest In Peace.

[NevadaBoss]

Learning about JG's passing hit like a kick in the gut...every generation puts forward, at most, a handful of truly great actors who viscerally connect with their audience. He was one of them. And while we will always have his work to return to--cant help but wonder about all the great work he'll never do. A giant of a talent--literal and figurative. rip

[jakemoeller]

The Sopranos was one of the most iconic series, much to James' acting.

[MrOlegalis]

I watched the entire Sopranos 5 times! And every time I watch it, it never gets old! There will never be a show as captivating as The Sopranos!! Forget about it!!😊❤

[dhurley]

I think David Chase saying that James was not taking care of himself, was the first time anyone ever said it.
It’s just so sad, I wish he got healthy after the Soprano’s. It’s so unfortunate 😢 It didn’t have to be this way.

[lovefromacrossthepond]

He didn't take care of himself is the most insightful part of this interview.

[PBandJ]

Fabulous interviews! Great to see Anthony Mason!!

[Jimmyfly]

My fav thing about Gandolfini is how generous he was. Especially to veterans going through a lot post service. It’s the top of his cake in my opinion.

[lizrutherford]

I recently binged The Sopranos for about the 1553th time. It was a perfect show and James took it up about 3 notches. No one else could be Tony Soprano.

[KM-mb]

James took more care of Tony Soprano than of himself. The role shortened his life a lot, he gave it his all. We will never forget it, R.I.P. big man.

[matthewfarmer]

This was great to watch, thanks Anthony Mason.

[rickysmithist]

Similar to Mr Chase I wasn’t surprised. If u noticed between a lot of lines Tony was breathing heavy to the point I was wondering if that was part of the character

[mariefortunato]

Loved Gandolfini and his role on the Sopranos!

[njdrummer]

The world lost so much when James Gandolfini died ! Being from NJ and being around the NJ lifestyle my whole life ( family from Newark etc). I really felt this ! There will never be another show or time like the time we spent enjoying the Sopranos.

[mariefortunato]

❤ Loved James Gandolfini as Tony Soprano

[opaljk]

“Some of us don’t like to be observed” says the man in the purple paisley button down opened to his belly with a giant scarf on his head haha

[debg]

One of my favs... still thinking about him❤!!!

[carolynturk-huje]

So missed! Loved James Gandolfini! So talented! Check out the movie, "Enough Said", 2013 Comedy/Romance.