The world was shocked to learn that beloved "The Sopranos" actor James Gandolfini, 51, passed away yesterday from a heart attack while vacationing in Rome, Italy. His former "Sopranos" co-star, Edie Falco, recently released a statement to USA Toay about her grief over the tragic loss.
"I am shocked and devastated by Jim's passing. He was a man of tremendous depth and sensitivity, with a kindness and generosity beyond words," the actress said. "I consider myself very lucky to have spent 10 years as his close colleague. My heart goes out to his family."
Falco played opposite Gandolfini as Carmela Soprano, the wife of mob boss Tony Soprano, and the HBO show's most prominent female character. The Emmy-award winning actress has since appeared in a number of film and television roles, but is perhaps best known for her work as Carmela, who helped shape and humanize the character of Tony.
"The love between Tony and Carmela was one of the greatest I've ever known," Falco said in her statement on the fan favorite couple. She added that she will "hold on to the memories of [her and Gandolfini's] intense and beautiful time together."
Gandolfini won 3 Emmy awards during the 6 season run of "The Sopranos." He is survived by his wife, Deborah Lin, and two children, Michael, 13, and his nine-month old daughter Liliana Ruth.
"We're all in shock and feeling immeasurable sadness at the loss of a beloved member of our family. 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," HBO said in a statement.
