It’s been over two decades since “The Sopranos” captivated television viewers with its gritty portrayal of a New Jersey mob family. The show, led by the late James Gandolfini as mob boss Tony Soprano, introduced us to a talented ensemble cast that brought the characters to life. But what became of those actors once the series came to an end? Where are they now, and what have they been up to since bidding farewell to their iconic roles? Let’s take a closer look at the cast of “The Sopranos” and find out what they’ve been doing since the show’s final episode aired.
James Gandolfini: Tony Soprano
Career post-Sopranos
After his iconic portrayal of Tony Soprano came to an end with the conclusion of “The Sopranos,” James Gandolfini continued to make waves in the entertainment industry. He took on a diverse range of roles in both film and television, showcasing his versatility as an actor. Some notable projects include “In the Loop,” “Killing Them Softly,” and “Zero Dark Thirty.” In 2013, he starred in the critically acclaimed crime drama film “The Drop,” alongside Tom Hardy and Noomi Rapace.
Unexpected death in 2013
Tragically, James Gandolfini’s life was cut short on June 19, 2013, when he suffered a heart attack while on vacation in Rome, Italy. He was only 51 years old at the time of his passing, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in the entertainment industry.
Legacy and tributes
Gandolfini’s portrayal of Tony Soprano earned him widespread recognition and critical acclaim, solidifying his status as one of the greatest actors of his generation. He won multiple awards for his work on “The Sopranos,” including three Primetime Emmy Awards and one Golden Globe Award. In honor of his immense talent and contributions to the industry, the Primetime Emmy Awards established the “James Gandolfini Memorial Award” to recognize outstanding achievement in drama.
Posthumous film releases
Even though James Gandolfini’s life was cut short, his final performances continued to showcase his remarkable talent. In 2014, his last completed film, “The Drop,” was released posthumously. Additionally, he lent his voice to the character of Carol in the animated film “The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water,” which was released in 2015. These posthumous releases serve as a reminder of his enduring impact on the industry.
Edie Falco: Carmela Soprano
Role in Showtime’s ‘Nurse Jackie’
Following her captivating performance as Carmela Soprano, Edie Falco went on to star in the critically acclaimed series “Nurse Jackie,” which aired on Showtime from 2009 to 2015. Her portrayal of the titular character, a nurse struggling with addiction, earned her numerous accolades, including four Primetime Emmy Awards and two Golden Globe Awards.
Stage career
Beyond her success on television, Edie Falco has established herself as a formidable presence in the world of theater. She has appeared in various productions, including a revival of “The House of Blue Leaves” on Broadway, for which she received a Tony Award nomination.
Award wins and nominations
Edie Falco’s talent and dedication to her craft have been recognized by the industry, with numerous awards and nominations under her belt. In addition to her Emmy and Golden Globe wins for “Nurse Jackie,” she also received multiple Primetime Emmy nominations for her role as Carmela Soprano. Her versatile performances continue to captivate audiences and solidify her status as a highly respected actress.
Recent appearances
In recent years, Edie Falco has appeared in several notable television series, including “Horace and Pete” and “Tommy.” She has also made guest appearances on popular shows like “30 Rock” and “Law & Order True Crime: The Menendez Murders.” Her ongoing presence in the industry reflects her unwavering commitment to her craft.
Michael Imperioli: Christopher Moltisanti
Screenwriting endeavors
In addition to his memorable portrayal of Christopher Moltisanti, Michael Imperioli has found success behind the scenes as a screenwriter. He co-wrote several episodes of “The Sopranos,” showcasing his storytelling prowess and contributing to the show’s success.
Starring in ‘Detroit 1-8-7’ and ‘Mad Dogs’
Following the end of “The Sopranos,” Michael Imperioli continued to grace the small screen with his talent. He landed prominent roles in series such as “Detroit 1-8-7” and “Mad Dogs,” showcasing his versatility as an actor and earning critical acclaim for his performances.
Running a theater in New York
Expanding his creative endeavors, Michael Imperioli went on to found a theater company called Studio Dante in New York City. As a co-founder and artistic director, he aimed to provide a platform for emerging artists and bring engaging theatrical productions to audiences.
The ‘Talking Sopranos’ podcast
In recent years, Michael Imperioli teamed up with his former co-star Steve Schirripa (Bobby Baccalieri) to launch “Talking Sopranos,” a podcast where they discuss each episode of the hit series. The podcast gives fans an inside look at the making of the show and provides valuable insights from the actors themselves.
Dominic Chianese: Junior Soprano
Role in ‘The Good Wife’
Dominic Chianese, known for his portrayal of Junior Soprano, continued to leave his mark on the television industry following his time on “The Sopranos.” He joined the cast of the critically acclaimed legal drama series “The Good Wife,” portraying a seasoned judge. His captivating performance garnered praise from audiences and critics alike.
Continued acting career in his late 80s
Remarkably, Dominic Chianese has continued to act well into his late 80s, demonstrating his unwavering passion for the craft. He has made appearances in various television shows, including “Boardwalk Empire,” “Blue Bloods,” and “The Village,” showcasing his versatility and dedication to his art.
His music career
Aside from acting, Dominic Chianese is also an accomplished musician. He released several albums showcasing his soulful singing voice, and his performances have been well-received by audiences. Chianese’s music career serves as a testament to his artistic range and multifaceted talents.
Charity work
Dominic Chianese has used his platform to give back to the community through his involvement in various charitable organizations. He has actively supported causes such as environmental conservation and has lent his talent to fundraising events to make a positive impact on society.
Lorraine Bracco: Dr. Jennifer Melfi
Appearances in various TV shows
Following her compelling portrayal of Dr. Jennifer Melfi, Lorraine Bracco has made appearances in several television shows, showcasing her versatility as an actress. She had recurring roles in series such as “Rizzoli & Isles” and “Blue Bloods.” Her guest appearances in shows like “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” and “Dice” further demonstrate her range and adaptability.
Launching own line of wines
In a venture outside of the entertainment industry, Lorraine Bracco launched her own line of wines. Embracing her Italian heritage, she collaborated with a vineyard in Italy to create wines inspired by the flavors and culture of the country. This entrepreneurial pursuit showcases her ability to explore new avenues.
Memoir publication
Lorraine Bracco shared her personal journey and experiences in her memoir, “To the Fullest: The Clean Up Your Act Plan to Lose Weight, Rejuvenate, and Be the Best You Can Be.” Through her candid storytelling, she offers readers insights into her life, career, and the challenges she has overcome.
Health advocacy work
Lorraine Bracco has been an advocate for raising awareness about mental health issues. Drawing from her own experiences, she has spoken openly about her battles with depression in order to destigmatize the conversation surrounding mental health. Her advocacy work highlights her commitment to effecting positive change and using her platform for good.
Steven Van Zandt: Silvio Dante
Continued music career with E Street Band
Before and during his tenure on “The Sopranos,” Steven Van Zandt had already established himself as a highly respected musician. As a guitarist and backing vocalist for Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band, he has continued to tour and make music with the group, further solidifying his status as a rock and roll legend.
Role in ‘Lilyhammer’
Following his iconic performance as Silvio Dante, Steven Van Zandt ventured into television once again with the crime dramedy series “Lilyhammer.” He not only starred in the show but also served as a writer and executive producer. The series, which aired from 2012 to 2014, showcased his comedic chops and further demonstrated his versatility as an entertainer.
Cultural and political activism
Steven Van Zandt has long been an outspoken advocate for various causes. His activism extends to issues ranging from freedom of speech to education reform. Additionally, he played a significant role in organizing the “No Nukes” concerts in the late 1970s, which aimed to raise awareness about nuclear energy and nonproliferation efforts.
Radio shows
In addition to his successful career in music and television, Steven Van Zandt has also found a home in radio. He has hosted a number of radio shows, including “Little Steven’s Underground Garage” and “Outlaw Country.” Through these platforms, he continues to introduce audiences to great music and share his passion for the art form.
Tony Sirico: Paulie Walnuts
Voice work in ‘Family Guy’
After his memorable portrayal of Paulie “Walnuts” Gualtieri, Tony Sirico lent his voice to the animated sitcom “Family Guy.” He voiced the character of Vinnie, a friend of Peter Griffin, in several episodes. His distinct voice brought a unique touch to the show and delighted fans of his work.
Reunion with Chase in ‘The Many Saints of Newark’
In an exciting reunion with “Sopranos” creator David Chase, Tony Sirico appeared in the 2021 film “The Many Saints of Newark.” Serving as a prequel to the hit series, the film explored the origins of Tony Soprano and the world of organized crime in New Jersey. Sirico’s involvement added to the anticipation and nostalgia surrounding the project.
Health struggles
Tony Sirico has faced various health struggles over the years. In 2011, he underwent surgery for a hip injury, which temporarily affected his ability to walk. Despite these challenges, Sirico has remained resilient and dedicated to his craft, continuing to make appearances in film and television.
Role in Woody Allen film
Tony Sirico had the opportunity to work with esteemed director Woody Allen in the 2016 film “Café Society.” He played the role of Vito, a member of a glamorous Hollywood family. Sirico’s involvement in the film showcased his ability to bring complex characters to life on the big screen.
Jamie-Lynn Sigler: Meadow Soprano
Singing career
In addition to her acting prowess, Jamie-Lynn Sigler has pursued a career in music. She released several albums and singles, showcasing her impressive singing abilities. Her music career allowed her to explore her creative range beyond the world of acting and connect with audiences in a different way.
TV appearances post-Sopranos
Following her portrayal of Meadow Soprano, Jamie-Lynn Sigler continued to make appearances on various television shows. She had recurring roles in series such as “Entourage,” “How I Met Your Mother,” and “Ugly Betty.” These appearances not only highlighted her versatility as an actress but also solidified her presence in the industry.
Public battle with Multiple Sclerosis
In 2002, Jamie-Lynn Sigler was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic illness that affects the central nervous system. Despite the challenges she has faced, Sigler has remained open about her journey with MS, becoming a source of inspiration for others dealing with the condition.
Book publications and podcast hosting
In recent years, Jamie-Lynn Sigler has delved into the world of writing, sharing her experiences and insights through her published works. She co-authored a memoir titled “Wise Girl: What I’ve Learned About Life, Love, and Loss” and has also hosted a podcast called “Mama Said,” where she discusses various topics related to motherhood and provides a platform for open conversations.
Steve Schirripa: Bobby Baccalieri
Roles in ‘Blue Bloods’ and ‘The Secret Life of the American Teenager’
After his portrayal of Bobby Baccalieri on “The Sopranos,” Steve Schirripa continued to build a successful career in television. He joined the cast of the crime drama series “Blue Bloods,” playing the role of Anthony Abetemarco. Additionally, he had a recurring role in the teen drama series “The Secret Life of the American Teenager,” showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Authoring books
In addition to his on-screen work, Steve Schirripa has authored several books, showcasing his wit and storytelling abilities. His books include “A Goomba’s Guide to Life” and “The Goomba Diet,” which offer humorous takes on life, food, and Italian-American culture. Schirripa’s writing reflects his vibrant personality and ability to connect with readers.
Co-hosting ‘Talking Sopranos’
Steve Schirripa teamed up with his former co-star Michael Imperioli to launch the podcast “Talking Sopranos,” where they provide in-depth analysis and behind-the-scenes insights into each episode of “The Sopranos.” The podcast serves as a treat for fans, offering a nostalgic look back at the iconic series and the experiences shared by the actors.
Organic pasta sauce business
Outside of the entertainment industry, Steve Schirripa has ventured into the culinary world. He founded a company called Uncle Steve’s Italian Specialties, which produces organic pasta sauces. Schirripa’s passion for food and Italian cuisine is evident in this business endeavor, allowing him to share his family’s culinary traditions with a broader audience.
Robert Iler: Anthony Soprano Jr.
Retirement from acting
Shortly after his role as Anthony Soprano Jr. on “The Sopranos” came to an end, Robert Iler made the decision to retire from acting. He stepped away from the spotlight and pursued a different path outside of the entertainment industry.
Venturing into poker
Following his retirement from acting, Robert Iler immersed himself in the world of professional poker. He participated in various poker tournaments, including the World Series of Poker, showcasing his skills and passion for the game. Iler’s transition into the poker scene highlighted his competitive nature and willingness to explore new endeavors.
Legal issues
During his time on “The Sopranos,” Robert Iler found himself caught up in legal troubles. In 2001, he and co-star Jamie-Lynn Sigler were arrested for robbery and drug possession. However, these incidents did not define his career or personal journey, as Iler chose to move forward and focus on other aspects of his life.
Where is he now?
Since his retirement from acting, Robert Iler has largely kept a low profile. He has chosen to live a private life away from the spotlight, retreating from the public eye. While updates on his current endeavors may be limited, his portrayal of Anthony Soprano Jr. will forever remain a significant part of television history.
The cast of “The Sopranos” has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. From James Gandolfini’s iconic portrayal of Tony Soprano to the diverse post-Sopranos careers of Edie Falco, Michael Imperioli, Dominic Chianese, Lorraine Bracco, Steven Van Zandt, Tony Sirico, Jamie-Lynn Sigler, Steve Schirripa, and Robert Iler, each member of the cast has continued to captivate audiences with their talent and dedication to their craft. Through their varied endeavors in film, television, music, writing, and activism, the legacy of “The Sopranos” lives on, ensuring that these remarkable actors will always be remembered and celebrated for their contributions to the world of entertainment.
