James Gandolfini's Son Michael Looks like Late Dad in First Footage of 'Sopranos' Prequel Film
James Gandolfini's son, Michael, brings Tony Soprano's character back to life, and the youngster is the spitting image of his father. Michael has said he looks forward to honoring his late great father's legacy.
Warner Brothers released the trailer of upcoming movies, including "The Sopranos" prequel, "The Many Saints of Newark." This is where we catch a glimpse of Michael Gandolfini depicting a young Tony, and the resemblance to his dad is unreal.
During the split-second scene, Michael, sporting a 60's hairdo and wearing a blue jacket with a white fleece collar, launches at a man in what looks like an altercation.
James Gandolfini as Tony Soprano in the HBO series, "The Sopranos" which debuted in 1999. | Photo: Getty Images.
Michael shared the clip on his Instagram where he's been met with great excitement from his followers, who all expressed they couldn't wait for the premiere. One follower responded:
"This honestly gave me the chills- can’t wait for Many Saints of Newark!"
Michael, 21, secured the part of Soprano in January 2019. His career had just begun after appearing in "Ocean's 8" and "The Deuce." The movie is set in 1967 during the Newark Riots and will also star Vera Farmiga, Ray Liotta, and Jon Bernthal.
Following the casting announcement, Michael shared his exhilaration at the opportunity to work with the creator of the series, David Chase. He added how esteemed he felt to carry on his father's legacy.
Michael found his father collapsed in the bathroom.
The moment was even more surreal considering Michael was born in 1999 - the same year that the HBO series launched. Speaking to "Esquire," Michael admitted that he never watched the show before his audition.
Michael recalls the moments he visited his father on set, enquiring what the show was about. James told him the story followed a guy in the mob who sought out therapy. Seeing "The Sopranos" for the first time was moving for Michael, who said:
"The hardest part of this whole process was watching the show for the first time."
The actor relayed how he battled to observe James' demeanor, mannerisms and hear his voice, which was required to prepare for the role because, in the same breath, he was observing his dad, who was no longer with him.
James Gandolfini suffered a heart attack at the age of 51 in June 2013, while in Italy. James had enjoyed a beautiful day with his family when he suffered a medical emergency in his hotel room. Michael found his father collapsed in the bathroom.
After the young Michael sought help, an ambulance was called and arrived within 8 minutes to transport the actor to the hospital. After being unable to resuscitate him, he was pronounced dead at 10:40 pm on the 19th.
James and a young Michael Gandolfini go Trick-or-Teating in New York, October, 2008. | Photo: Getty Images.
Following James' death, series creator Chase commended the talent for bringing a depth of humanity to a complicated character marred by ugliness, which he said changed television forever.
As for his legacy living through James' son, Michael, it seems a legion of fans are all ready to give him all the support he needs to live up to his father's name. "The Many Saints of Newark" premieres on September 24.