"The Sopranos" TV show. - Commemorating a quarter-century since graduation: a class reunion.
A massive family reunion of the cast from the critically acclaimed Sopranos series took place at the Tribeca Film Festival on June 13th, 2019. This was in commemoration of the show's 25th anniversary. The hit show first aired on HBO (a US Pay-TV channel) on January 10th, 1999, though there was a slight delay in celebrating its round birthday.
Leading the list of attendees was Edie Falco (60), who portrayed Carmela Soprano, the depressed mafia boss wife of Tony Soprano (played by the late James Gandolfini, who passed away in 2013 due to a heart attack). Gandolfini was sadly missed by his onscreen family.
Steve Buscemi (66), known for his roles in major Hollywood projects, was also present. He took up a lesser role and also directed several episodes in "The Sopranos." Creator of the show, David Chase (78), joined the party as well.
Key Absences
Lorraine Bracco (69), who was nominated for an Oscar for her role in "GoodFellas," and embodied the therapist to the gangster boss in the series, was surprisingly absent. Additionally, Steven Van Zandt (73), who portrayed Frank Tagliano in the show, was unable to attend due to his ongoing tour with the E Street Band, the main job of Bruce Springsteen (74).
The Start of a Golden Age
The Sopranos, alongside the two-year-old prison series "Oz - Prison Break," is considered the beginning of what's known as the golden age of TV series. This era is marked by intricate plotlines and complex, morally gray characters. Both "Oz" and "The Sopranos" were groundbreaking for being originated from Pay-TV channels. The later series received an Emmy nomination in 2007, later turning into a widely celebrated classic.
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The reunion brought together Tony Soprano's onscreen family, including Edie Falco, who portrayed his wife Carmela, and Steve Buscemi, known for his role and directing duties in the series. Unfortunately, James Gandolfini, who played Tony Soprano, was absent due to his untimely passing. The event took place at the Tribeca Film Festival, celebrating the 25th anniversary of "The Sopranos" premiering on HBO in 1999.
Lorraine Bracco, nominated for an Oscar for her "GoodFellas" role and the therapist to the gangster boss in "The Sopranos," was surprisingly missed at the reunion. Steven Van Zandt, who played Frank Tagliano, was unable to attend due to his commitments with the E Street Band.
The Sopranos and its contemporaries, such as "Oz - Prison Break," are often credited with kickstarting the golden age of TV series, marked by intricate plotlines and morally complex characters. Both shows, originating from Pay-TV channels, received widespread acclaim, with "The Sopranos" even earning an Emmy nomination in 2007.
