Actor James Gandolfini, best known for his portrayal of Tony Soprano on HBO’s “The Sopranos,” died suddenly today — reportedly of a heart attack or possibly stroke — at the age of 51.
Gandolfini was traveling in Italy, when he suffered either a heart attack or stroke, according to conflicting reports.
The acclaimed actor won three Emmys and one Golden Globe award for his work on “The Sopranos,” which remains HBO’s highest-rated series ever. He also appeared in major motion pictures, including a well-regarded role in “Get Shorty,” and most recently, “Zero Dark Thirty.”
HBO released the following statement, confirming Gandolfini’s passing: “We’re all in shock and feeling immeasurable sadness at the loss of a beloved member of our family. He was a special man, a great talent, but more importantly a gentle and loving person who treated everyone no matter their title or position with equal respect. He touched so many of us over the years with his humor, his warmth, and his humility. Our hearts go out to his wife and children during this terrible time. He will be deeply missed by all of us.”
Gandolfini is survived by his wife, Deborah Lin, and their eight-month-old daughter, Liliana, plus a son, Michael, from a previous marriage.
