HBO’s new docuseries, *Wise Guy*, offers an in-depth look into the creation of *The Sopranos*, the show that forever changed television. In the series, David Chase, the creator of *The Sopranos*, discusses how the show came to be, offering insights into the writer’s room where many classic episodes were crafted. While *The Sopranos* is widely regarded as one of the greatest TV series of all time—thanks to its brilliant writing, thrilling twists, and unforgettable characters—none of it would have resonated as deeply without James Gandolfini. The actor’s portrayal of Tony Soprano, a deeply troubled and often angry mob boss, won him multiple Emmy awards, but it also took a significant toll on him both physically and emotionally.
James Gandolfini Had to Go to a Dark Place to Play Tony Soprano
At just 38 years old, James Gandolfini was cast as Tony Soprano in 1999. At that time, he was known for supporting roles in films like *True Romance*, *Crimson Tide*, and *Get Shorty*, but he was not yet a household name. In *Wise Guy*, David Chase talks about the numerous actors who auditioned for Tony Soprano, all of whom approached the character similarly. Gandolfini, however, stood out. While he could convincingly portray the intimidating mob boss, he also revealed the vulnerability and complexity beneath the surface. This depth was crucial for audiences to sympathize with Tony—a powerful man plagued by panic attacks who sought therapy—making him more than just a caricature.
Tony Soprano might have been a sympathetic character, but he also had to be a bad man. In the fifth episode of *The Sopranos*, “College,” Tony commits his first on-screen murder, strangling a former mobster in Witness Protection named Febby Petrulio (Tony Ray Rossi). The murder is brutal, with Tony wrapping a rope around Febby’s neck and squeezing the life out of him. In *Wise Guy*, it’s revealed that Gandolfini became so immersed in the scene that he actually cut his hands on the rope. Unfortunately, the physical pain was just one aspect of what he endured. To fully embody Tony’s constant anger, Gandolfini would prepare by punching objects and intentionally depriving himself of sleep to ensure his rage felt real during filming. While these methods might work for a single film, the demands of sustaining such intensity over six seasons took a heavy toll.
James Gandolfini Struggled with Alcoholism During *The Sopranos*
The docuseries also explores the immense pressure James Gandolfini faced as the star of *The Sopranos*. Despite the strong ensemble cast, the success or failure of the series rested squarely on his shoulders. Archival footage in *Wise Guy* shows Gandolfini discussing the long hours he worked, often staying on set until 1 or 2 in the morning and returning just a few hours later. This relentless schedule contributed to his struggle with alcoholism.
Steven Van Zandt, who played Silvio Dante on the show, recounts in the series how he and Gandolfini would often go to a bar and drink, with Gandolfini frequently expressing his desire to quit the show. Van Zandt would have to talk him down each time, reminding him that the show’s fate—and the livelihoods of everyone involved—depended on him. As Van Zandt noted, there was no way to replace Gandolfini with another character; Tony Soprano was the heart of *The Sopranos*. While Van Zandt may have persuaded Gandolfini to stay, he also highlighted the immense pressure the star felt, knowing that everyone was relying on him.
James Gandolfini’s Legacy as Tony Soprano Lives On After His Death
Tony Soprano is undeniably a villain, but audiences were captivated by how James Gandolfini brought the character to life. Despite the controversial fade-to-black finale, it’s hard to deny the brilliance of Gandolfini’s performances throughout the series. Tragically, Gandolfini passed away from a heart attack in 2013 at the age of 51, just six years after the show’s final season. *Wise Guy* includes footage from his funeral, where the church was filled with people mourning his loss. During his eulogy, David Chase struggled to get through his speech, breaking down in tears. His grief was not only for what Gandolfini achieved as an actor but also for the friendship they shared.
If an artist truly suffers for their art, then no one exemplifies this more than James Gandolfini. His portrayal of Tony Soprano took a toll on him in ways we can hardly imagine, but it also gave us one of the most iconic roles in television history. Tony Soprano remains one of TV’s most memorable and complex characters, and while Gandolfini is no longer with us, his legacy as Tony Soprano will live on forever in *The Sopranos*.
