Actor Michael Imperioli rose to prominence with his performance as Christopher Moltisanti in the crime-drama series The Sopranos. It also featured the late James Gandolfini as Tony Soprano, who served as a mentor figure to Imperioli’s character. As a result, the two actors spent a lot of time working together developing a special bond.
During an interview, Imperioli reflected on his relationship with Gandolfini who sadly passed away in 2013. The younger actor shared his thoughts on his time with Gandolfini on the hit series and did not mince words when reacting to the media’s treatment of his co-star’s passing. Here is what Imperioli said about his friendship with Gandolfini and the latter’s untimely passing.
Michael Imperioli reflected on his relationship with The Sopranos star James Gandolfini
Michael Imperioli‘s performance as Christopher Moltisanti in The Sopranos earned him an Outstanding Supporting Actor Emmy Award. However, the series also earned him a very close relationship with the notoriously media-shy James Gandolfini, who played his mentor Tony Soprano in the series.
During an interview with The Independent, Imperioli discussed the show’s COVID-era renaissance. At the same time, the actor was also asked about his friendship with Gandolfini having met the three-time Emmy winner shortly before his demise in 2013.
There were times when we didn’t get along, especially if it was late at night and we were, you know, in our cups. We could be idiots as much as anybody else, but at the end of the day, he was just about as good a guy as I’ve ever worked with.
Imperioli made the above statement, admitting that while he and Gandolfini did not always get along, they had a great off-screen relationship.
Furthermore, Imperioli admitted that despite Gandolfini’s several well-documented off-screen issues, the actor was one of the most compassionate people he had worked with. As a result, he felt compelled to protect the late actor’s memory.
Michael Imperioli was furious at the media’s treatment of James Gandolfini’s passing
In the same interview, Imperioli discussed Gandolfini’s passing in 2013 while on a trip to Rome, Italy, where he suffered a heart attack. Following the actor’s demise, media outlets dug up reports of Gandolfini’s past troubles, with Imperioli condemning such behavior.
The guy just died two days ago and we’re gonna go into that? I found it really tacky and distasteful.
Imperioli made the above statement expressing disappointment in the media’s treatment of his co-star’s passing. Furthermore, Imperioli admitted that like Gandolfini he and most people are flawed individuals.
However, the actor reiterated that despite his arguments with Gandolfini they always found a way to mend their relationship and he had nothing but respect for his co-star. Imperioli also shared a heartfelt tribute for Gandolfini on the latter’s 10th death anniversary (via Instagram), stating he was grateful to have been a part of the late actor’s personal and professional life.
The Sopranos is streaming on Max.
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