Sopranos, The, was an American crime drama that ranks among the most successful cable series in television history. The popular and critically acclaimed series originally was broadcast on the HBO cable television network from 1999 to 2007. It followed the private and professional life of Tony Soprano, a New Jersey organized crime boss. “The Sopranos” was known for its vivid characters, powerful storytelling, violence, adult language, and black comedy. The series won numerous Emmy Awards
Tony Soprano (played by James Gandolfini) was the head of the New Jersey-based DiMeo crime family. He was both a ruthless and sympathetic character who had difficulties balancing the conflicting responsibilities of his home life and his criminal activities. Tony had a strained relationship with his wife, Carmela (Edie Falco), and their two children, Meadow (Jamie-Lynn Sigler) and Anthony, Jr. (Robert Iler). Tony suffered from depression and panic attacks and sought regular treatment from his psychiatrist Dr. Jennifer Melfi (Lorraine Bracco). He kept his therapy a secret from the organization.
Among “The Sopranos”’ other main characters were Tony’s emotionally abusive mother, Livia (Nancy Marchand); his uncle and mentor in the organization, Uncle Corrado “Junior” Soprano (Dominic Chianese); and Tony’s nephew and protégé, Christopher Moltisanti (Michael Imperioli). The series was known for abruptly “killing off” a number of its popular and established characters.
“The Sopranos” was also notable for its episodes featuring dream sequences that explored Tony’s unconscious mind and expanded the series’ narrative. The series was also known for its references to current events, popular culture, and American organized crime films, especially The Godfather trilogy (1972, 1974, 1990) and GoodFellas (1990).
“The Sopranos” was created by the American screenwriter, director, and television producer David Chase. Chase said the series was drawn from his experiences growing up in New Jersey and was inspired by American gangster films.
