Actor James Gandolfini Dies of Heart Attack on Holiday in Italy

Actor James Gandolfini, whose best known as Tony Soprano on the HBO series The Sopranos has died suddenly of an apparent heart attack. He was only 51. 

A spokeswoman for HBO said the actor was on holiday in Italy. 

“We’re all in shock and feeling immeasurable sadness at the loss of a beloved member of our family,” HBO said in a statement. “He was 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.” 

As Tony Soprano, James Gandolfini won three Emmys playing a mob boss beset with issues caused by his mother. The actor specialized in playing brusque, intimidating guys whose big frames concealed generous hearts. He recently filmed “Criminal Justice” for HBO, which had received a limited series order.

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