Overview

• David Chase initially hesitated to cast James Gandolfini as Tony Soprano, questioning whether he was 'threatening enough' for the role, according to a new biography excerpt.
• Nancy Sanders, Gandolfini’s manager, advocated strongly for him, arguing that he embodied the character despite Chase’s concerns.
• Chase ultimately decided Gandolfini was the perfect choice after his audition, which left no doubt about his suitability for the role.
• The Sopranos, which aired from 1999 to 2007, won 21 Emmy Awards and remains a pivotal work in television history, with its legacy continuing through expansions like the 2021 prequel film.
• Michael Imperioli and Steve Schirripa are set to reunite with Chase for a new Sopranos film, with Imperioli co-writing the script, though plot details remain under wraps.