Overview

• David Chase, creator of 'The Sopranos,' initially doubted James Gandolfini’s ability to project sufficient menace for the role of Tony Soprano.
• Gandolfini’s manager, Nancy Sanders, strongly advocated for him, assuring Chase that he was the right actor for the part.
• Casting directors Georgianne Walken and Sheila Jaffe had favored Gandolfini from the start, citing his unique presence and talent.
• Gandolfini himself was skeptical he would be cast, believing the role would go to a more conventionally attractive actor.
• Excerpts from Jason Bailey’s new biography, published by Vulture, detail these casting deliberations and reignite public interest in the origins of the iconic series.