Movies & TV / News

James Gandolfini’s Son Cast as Young Tony Soprano for Upcoming Sopranos Prequel Film

January 23, 2019 | Posted by Jeffrey Harris
Sopranos Finale

Deadline reports that the role of a young Tony Soprano has been cast for the upcoming planned prequel film for The Sopranos, which is currently titled The Many Saints of Newark. James Gandolfini’s own son, Michael Gandolfini (The Deuce), has been cast in the role of Tony Soprano.

The upcoming film will be set in the 1960s. Director Alan Taylor and writer David Chase reportedly had an “extensive audition process” before casting Michael Gandolfini. Taylor and Chase wanted Michael Gandolfini due to his “screen presence, mastery of Tony’s mannerisms,” and insight into the character.

Speaking on the news, Gandolfini stated, “[It was] a profound honor to continue my dad’s legacy while stepping into the shoes of a young Tony Soprano.” He added, “I’m thrilled that I’m going to have the opportunity to work with David Chase and the incredible company of talent he has assembled for The Many Saints of Newark.”

The 1960s-set film will be directed by Alan Taylor, who directed many Sopranos episodes as well as Game of Thrones. Chase wrote the script along with Lawrence Konner and will direct. He recently confirmed that the film will feature a young Tony Soprano and will “deal with the tensions between the blacks and whites at the time.”