Edie Falco, renowned for her role as Carmela Soprano in the acclaimed HBO series *The Sopranos*, recently opened up about her experiences and the poignant losses she has faced since the show’s airing. During a panel discussion at the Museum of the Moving Image in New York City, Falco reflected on her time with her fellow cast members, many of whom have sadly passed away.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Edie-Falco-attends-the-Global-Premiere-of-20th-Century-Studios-Avatar-Fire-and-Ash-030326-f2cfb5562fa94f0bb1eb0b6f90299a5a.jpg){kind=avatar}
The event took place on 27 February 2026 and was held to celebrate the exhibition *Stories and Set Designs for The Sopranos*, which opened earlier that month. Moderated by filmmaker Ari Aster, the panel featured insights from Falco, series creator David Chase, and fellow actor Dominic Chianese, following a screening of the season three episode “A Second Opinion.”
In her remarks, the 62-year-old actress expressed the profound impact of those she lost, stating, “I can’t even begin to tell you, first and foremost, about how many of those people are gone. It still knocks me off my feet.” Falco’s statement serves as a touching reminder of the emotional bonds forged during the show’s six-season run from 1999 to 2007.
Among the notable cast members who have died are James Gandolfini, who played her on-screen husband Tony Soprano, as well as Jerry Adler, Nancy Marchand, Charley Scalies, and Tony Sirico. Gandolfini’s untimely death in 2013 at the age of 51 deeply affected Falco, who recalled him as “a man of tremendous depth and sensitivity” whose kindness she cherished.
Following Gandolfini’s passing, Falco shared an emotional tribute, highlighting their close working relationship over a decade. In an interview in 2021, she likened their professional dynamic to two children completely absorbed in their imaginative play, a testament to the authenticity of their performances and the deep connection they shared.
During the panel, Falco discussed the creative journey she undertook while portraying Carmela, explaining that she lacked any profound understanding of those years but recognised the significance of the experience. “It is so evocative to watch,” she noted, as she recalled stepping into the role of Tony’s wife.
The *Sopranos* exhibition at the Museum of the Moving Image also featured screenings and discussions that celebrated the groundbreaking series. Falco expressed her gratitude for the project, describing her initial experience as “like stepping on a magic carpet,” where the quality of writing and artistry allowed her to immerse herself fully into her character without the burdens of preparation.
“It’s all been done. The writing, the research, the character study, the costumes and makeup… I just completely immersed myself into this character that we all helped create,” she added, highlighting the collaborative spirit that defined the show’s success. Falco’s connection to Carmela was palpable, as she shared that she was “lost in the story and in this character, and whatever she went through.”
The conversation, marked by nostalgia and reflection, underscored the significant cultural impact *The Sopranos* has had since its inception. The series is often lauded for its complex portrayal of family dynamics, crime, and the struggles of leading a dual life, themes that resonated with viewers worldwide.
As Falco and her fellow panelists revisited the beloved series, it became clear that *The Sopranos* remains an enduring piece of television history, one that continues to evoke both fond memories and poignant reflections on loss and legacy. The exhibition at the Museum of the Moving Image serves as a fitting tribute to the series and its talented cast, celebrating the stories that captivated audiences for years.
Moreover, Falco’s heartfelt recollections shine a light on the personal connections and shared experiences among the cast, reminding fans of the human element behind the characters they adored. The impact of those relationships, coupled with the artistry of the show, has left an indelible mark on both the actors and the audience, ensuring that *The Sopranos* will be remembered for generations to come.