Talking Sopranos

     This week on Talking Sopranos it’s another double barrel episode! Michael and Steve welcome William DeMeo (Jason Molinaro) and Joe Maruzzo (Joe Peeps) to the podcast. 

     Will’s dream was always to join the cast of the Sopranos but when he was first offered a role he had to turn it down because he was shooting Analyze This. David Chase remembered him and later cast him as Jason. 

     Joe and Michael have been friends from way back and have a great time catching up. Joe shares some incredible stories about his first day on set and how he found out his family actually had a real connection to the mob. 

     Then it’s the big wedding episode….Michael and Steve break down “Mr. & Mrs. John Sacrimoni Request” Talking Sopranos #71 S6-Ep5. Don’t forget to ask Michael and Steve questions and buy official merchandise at the Talking Sopranos website. 

In Conversation with the Sopranos Live - Saturday October 16, 2021 Ikeda Theater, Mesa, AZ. Go to the link below or Call 480-644-6500 for tickets.

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     Michael and Steve welcome Lou Mustillo (Sal Vitro “The Gardener”) to the Talking Sopranos podcast. Lou was only in four episodes of the Sopranos but he was definitely a memorable character. He looks back at how funny he thought the show was and how much impact it had on his life. He tells a funny story about a day at Yankee stadium when he was shocked to hear the crowd chant “Do My Lawn” in his honor. 

     Then Michael and Steve break down another incredible episode of the Sopranos. As season 6 goes on, the show gets more and more complicated so lots to unpack and discuss. This was a big one for Steve who had a number of important scenes. Check out Talking Sopranos Ep #70 “The Fleshy Part of the Thigh” S6-Ep4. Don’t forget to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and go to the Talking Sopranos website to ask Michael and Steve questions and get official merchandise.

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     Vanessa started as a “club kid” and the Sopranos was actually her first acting gig. From there she built a fantastic career working with some of the biggest names in Hollywood. She also starred as a series regular on shows like CSI: New Orleans, CSI: New York and 24. 

     Bob Shaw is an incredibly talented Production Designer who has been nominated for 5 Emmy awards and one Oscar. The Sopranos just wouldn’t have been the same without him and he has lots of behind the scenes stories to share.

     After that Michael and Steve break down another fantastic episode of the Sopranos S6-Ep3 “Mayham”. Don’t forget to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and go to the Talking Sopranos website to ask Michael and Steve questions and buy official merchandise. 

See Zopa live at the Mercury Lounge in NYC. Click the link below for more details. http://www.mercuryeastpresents.com/mercurylounge

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     Ricky Gervais joins Michael Imperioli and Steve Schirripa this week on Talking Sopranos. Ricky is a huge fan of the Sopranos, a show which he calls “A Masterpiece”. He talks about why he believes the show was so successful, and of course his take on the ending. He also talks about his career, The Office, and his latest show After Life. Ricky also talks about hosting the Golden Globes and what people thought about his performance afterwards. 

     Then Michael and Steve break down what could be one of the most complicated episodes of the entire series. In this one Tony is Kevin Finnerty and the entire episode is one long dream…or is it. There’s a lot of hidden meanings and Michael tries to lay it all out for us. Is he reading to much into it…. or is he absolutely on point….Check it out and make your own decision. Talking Sopranos #68 “Join the Club” S6-Ep2. Don’t forget to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and go to the talking sopranos website to ask questions and buy official merchandise.

See Zopa live at the Mercury Lounge in NYC. Click the link below for more details. 

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Get Tickets for Conversations with Sopranos October 2nd at the Packard Music Hall. Warren OH. 

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     This week Michael and Steve welcome Dania Ramirez (Blanca Selgado) to the podcast. Dania has appeared in Heroes, Entourage, Justice League, Sweet Tooth as well as 5 episodes of the Sopranos. Originally her manager passed on the Sopranos audition but Dania thought he was crazy. It was always one of her favorite shows. 

     Dania was born in the Dominican Republic and never thought she would end up with such a successful career in show business. She talks about how she got her start, and what her family thought about her pursuing a career as an actress. She was really nervous her first day on the Sopranos set and it was James Gandolfini who calmed her down and told her to just relax. Dania has definitely had a very successful acting career but is also a busy entrepreneur involved in a number of projects from making wine to legal cannabis. Currently she is starring in her latest hit Sweet Tooth on Netflix. 

     After Dania’s interview Michael and Steve get into this week’s episode. It’s called “Members Only” and Steve kicks things off by showing some pics of him and Frank Sinatra who is wearing a Members Only jacket…This is the beginning of season six and this episode does not disappoint. It’s one of the best in the series with a lot to understand. Michael really focuses on the nuances in this one. Talking Sopranos Episode #67 “Members Only” S6-Ep1. Don’t forget to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and go to the Talking Sopranos website to ask Michael and Steve questions and buy official merchandise.

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     This week on Talking Sopranos Michael Imperioli and Steve Schirripa finish off season five with special guest Toni Kalem (Angie Bonpensiero). 

     During the interview Michael and Steve are really surprised to find out that Toni was a finalist to play the role of Carmela! She was the one who went to LA for the screen test with Jim and the folks from HBO. Toni also talks about her early days as an actress in NYC. How she had to deal with the old casting couch mentality and how her bosses literally chased her around the desk. Luckily she was able to make the right connections and it was her talent that rose above. David Chase saw Toni in a film called The Wanderers and asked her to audition for the Sopranos. She didn’t get the role of Carmela but did land the part of Angie Bonpensiero, and wrote one episode herself. In the early days HBO wouldn’t fly her from LA so she lived with her parents while acting in one of the biggest TV shows in history. 

     Then Michael and Steve get another letter from A S. This time he really rips into Michael, and Steve has had it!. This may be the end of AS…After that Michael and Steve finish off season 5. This is another incredible episode and one that David Chase originally thought could be the series finale. Don’t miss Talking Sopranos #66 S5-Ep13 “All Due Respect”. Make sure to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and go to talkingsopranos.com to buy merchandise and ask Michael and Steve questions.

See Zopa live at the Mercury Lounge in NYC. Click the link below for more details. 

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It’s another fantastic episode with two amazing guests. 

     First up, the legendary Peter Bogdanovich talks about how he started out as an actor in NYC and what gave him the bug to start directing. He shares stories about his friendship with Orson Wells, how he cast Tatum O’Neil in the Last Picture Show and of course how he ended up on the Sopranos. Peter became friends with David Chase who asked him to play the role of Melfi’s psychiatrist. He also directed Michael and Steve in Sentimental Education S5-Ep6 of the Sopranos. 

     Next Marianne Leone joins the podcast. Michael worked with Marianne on Goodfellas and the two remained friends ever since. She is a lot of fun and shares some great stories about her days on the Sopranos and how Federico Castelluccio restored a painting of her grandparents. 

     Then Michael and Steve get into one of the most surprising and dramatic episodes of the entire series. Michael and Drea both won Emmys for their performances as well as Terry Winter for the screenplay.  Tim Van Patten was nominated for directing. This is a great one…Talking Sopranos S5-E12 “Long Term Parking”. Make sure to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and go to talkingsopranos.com for official merchandise and to ask Michael and Steve questions.

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     This week Michael and Steve welcome Sopranos writer and producer Matt Weiner to the podcast. Matt was an award-winning writer on the Sopranos but also created the incredible TV series Mad Men. He is a fascinating person and in 2011 he was named one of Time Magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world. This is a candid and emotional interview where Matt talks about his difficult early days, working with David Chase and Jim’s passing. 

    Then Michael and Steve break down this week’s episode which Matt wrote. It’s a crazy one that definitely needs some explaining. Along the way Steve reads his living obituary which includes an intro to the Steve Motherf**ks the world video. He also busts Michael’s chops about where he shops and the fact he has never been to Cosco. Michael also tells a great story about how he and Steve went to Jamaica and tried to get into Hedonism but were denied. 

    Check out Talking Sopranos Ep #64 “The Test Dream” S5-Ep11. Make sure to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and go to the Talking Sopranos website to ask questions and buy official merchandise. 

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     It’s another exciting double barrel episode with two fantastic guests. 

     First up Richard Portnow talks about his life as an actor and an amateur boxer. He also talks about the days he used to run into Tony “Junior” Sirico in the clubs of New York City. Over the years Richard has worked with some of the biggest names in the business and shares who he likes and who he doesn’t. Originally the character of Melvoin was only cast in one episode, but Richard brought so much to the role the writers kept him on as a reoccurring character. 

     Then Suzanne Shepherd joins the podcast. Suzanne played Carmela’s mother in the Sopranos, Lorraine Bracco’s mother in Goodfellas and Steve’s mother in Bluebloods. She was also a finalist to play Livia on the Sopranos but was happy to see Nancy Marchand own that role. After that Michael and Steve get into this week’s episode which is all about anger and revenge. Check out Talking Sopranos #63 “Cold Cuts” S5 – EP10. Make sure to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and go to the Talking Sopranos website to ask Michael and Steve questions and buy official Talking Sopranos merchandise. 

Plus check out Michael’s Band Zopa live August 14th at the Mercury Lounge in NYC.

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     Celebrity Superfan Alec Baldwin joins Michael and Steve this week on Talking Sopranos. Steve and Michael have always said no one comes on the podcast unless they were directly involved in the making of the Sopranos. Well we’re going to break that rule for Alec, and we’re going to break it again with the Talking Sopranos Superfan Contest! 

     In order to thank our fans for voting for us for the Webbys, Michael and Steve are going to invite a few lucky fans to join them on the podcast. Just go to the Talking Sopranos website and click the Superfan Contest link to enter. Tell us a little about yourself and why we should have you come on the podcast. We’ll pick a few lucky fans to join a future episode. 

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     Then before getting into this week’s episode, Michael and Steve try to rank Sopranos characters by wealth….Tony? Johnny? Who do you think has the most scratch? After that Michael and Steve break down this week’s episode, S5 – Ep9 “Unidentified Black Males”. 

Make sure to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos YouTube channel. Go to our website to ask Michael and Steve questions, buy Merchandise and enter the Talking Sopranos Superfan contest. 

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     It all begins with a big THANK YOU to all our fans for voting Talking Sopranos the best podcast in Television and Film at the Webbys!

     Then Michael and Steve take on one of the best episodes of the entire Sopranos series. They also welcome guests Leslie Rae Bega (Valentina La Paz) and Joe Lisi (Dick Barone). Leslie is a fascinating woman who not only is an incredible actress, but an extremely successful real estate agent and accomplished chef. She tells us the story of her life, her career and how she ended up on the Sopranos. She also talks about how she got the role of Valentina, and what it took for her to give that character real personality. When Leslie was hired she knew there would be some nudity involved but things did get a bit more graphic then she expected. Over all it was an amazing experience and she has many fantastic stories to tell. 

     After that Michael and Steve welcome Joe Lisi to the podcast. Joe tells us how he went from real NYPD captain to TV and film actor. He said he made more money in one day playing a police captain on TV than he did in a whole week as a real captain. He also tells us the real story of a celeb who went to buy coke, signed autographs for the undercover cops and ended up in cuffs. Joe is the real deal.  

     Finally Michael and Steve break down S5 – Ep8 “Marco Polo”. This is one that Michael wrote so he has lots of really interesting inside info. He tells great stories about the script, the production and what went on behind the scenes. It’s another fantastic episode of Talking Sopranos! Don’t forget to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and visit the Talking Sopranos website to ask Michael and Steve questions and buy official TSP merchandise.

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     The one and only Steven Van Zandt joins Michael and Steve this week on Talking Sopranos. Little Steven talks about his early days with Bruce Springsteen, Southside Johnny and of course the Sopranos. David Chase, the Sopranos creator, saw Steven induct the Rascals into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and asked him to audition for the show. Steven’s answer was “thanks but no thanks”. Eventually he did come around and was actually cast as Tony Soprano. But it was HBO who nixed the whole idea, they wanted someone with more on-screen experience. Steven had already been working on a script about a wise guy named Silvio Dante. David liked it so much he wrote the character into the show. But just when Steven thought he had found his new career, Bruce called and wanted to put the E-Street band back together. Crazy story and a great interview with a man who starred on one of the greatest TV shows in history and plays guitar in one of the greatest rock and roll bands in history.

     Then it’s Happy Birthday Mr. Tony Soprano as Michael and Steve break down episode #60 “In Camelot” S5-Ep7. Make sure to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts, and visit the Talking Sopranos website to ask Michael and Steve questions and get official merchandise. 

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   Paul was a member of the SUNY Purchase Mafia and talks about his college days with Edie Falco, Hal Hartley and Wesley Snipes. He originally auditioned for the role of Mikey Palmice, but after his audition David Chase asked him to read for Father Phil. Strangely, Paul’s real life dad was a bit of a flawed priest himself so Paul knew exactly how to play that part. 

     Then Jason Minter joins the podcast. Jason started out as the locations manager for the Sopranos but David Chase quickly took him on as his own personal assistant. Jason saw the entire Sopranos operation from the inside out. He knew what was going on before the actors, producers or directors did. When someone on staff leaked secrets about the show, Jason was the one who did some digging to figure out who it was. Turns out the guilty party was making hundreds of thousands of dollars selling story lines to the tabloids. 

     After that Michael and Steve break down this week’s episode. It was directed by Peter Bogdanovich and a big one for both Steve Buscemi and Edie Falco. Check out Talking Sopranos #59 “Sentimental Education” S5 -Ep6. Make sure to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos YouTube channel and go to the Talking Sopranos website to ask Michael and Steve questions and buy official merchandise. 

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VOTE TALKING SOPRANOS THE BEST PODCAST IN FILM AND TV AT THE WEBBY AWARDS! 

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     This week on Talking Sopranos Michael and Steve welcome Maureen Van Zandt (Gabriella Dante)to the podcast. Maureen shares stories about her days with Jimi Hendrix, Tony Sirico, the Beatles and growing up in a Mafia family. She also talks about how Georgianne Walken asked her to audition for the part of Gabriella. She thought it would be weird if she got it, or didn’t get it but in the end was the perfect choice for the role.

     Then Michael and Steve go through some of the weird phone numbers they have plugged in their phones. Steve has lots of priests, celebs and an old hooker named Grandma Gums….maybe Great Grandma Gums by now. 

     After that the guys get into this week’s episode which was a big one for Michael. It’s one of the two episodes that HBO submitted to the Academy for his Emmy win. Michael and Drea are absolutely fantastic in this episode and Michael talks about all their scenes in detail. Check out Talking Sopranos Ep #58 S5 – Ep 5 “Irregular Around the Margins”. Don’t forget to subscribe to the Taking Sopranos podcast wherever you get podcasts and go to the Talking Sopranos website to ask Michael and Steve questions and get official Talking Sopranos merchandise.

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**VOTE TALKING SOPRANOS THE BEST PODCAST IN FILM AND TV AT THE WEBBY AWARDS!

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Voting is open until May 6th so VOTE NOW!

     This week Michael and Steve welcome Todd A. Kessler (writer/producer) to the podcast. Todd is a really interesting guy who wrote 4 episodes of the Sopranos and produced 20 more. He’s a Harvard grad who met David Chase when he was 24 and started writing for the show at 25. He had a great run on the Sopranos until David decided the show would be better off without him. It was a huge blow for Todd and he tells us what James Gandolfini told him the night he left the show. After the Sopranos, Todd went on to become the co-creator and show runner for the very successful series Damages. 

     Then Michael and Steve breakdown this week’s episode. In this one AJ talks Carmela and Tony into letting him spend the night in NYC. He ends up with his face glued to the floor and his eyebrows shaved off. Michael and Steve have a few things to say about this debacle, raising kids and our beloved school system. It’s another fantastic episode of Talking Sopranos #57 “All Happy Families” S5-E4. Don’t forget to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and go to the Talking Sopranos website to buy official merchandise and ask Michael and Steve questions.

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    Matt kicks things off with a really interesting story about how a girl and a trip to Italy changed him from a D1 lacrosse player at BC to an actor in NYC. How Georgianne Walken caused him to lose one job, but then got him the gig of a lifetime on the Sopranos. He also shares stories about his first day on set and his audition where he got a rare pat on the back from David Chase. 

     Then Chris Caldovino joins the podcast. Chris followed Terry Winter from NY to LA and was the only other client of Terry’s fake agency. When Chris was hired for the Sopranos he got the role of Billy Saragusa…But after one day the writers changed his name to Billy Leaotardo and that’s the way it stayed. Chris may be the only person killed by Steve Buscemi in two different shows! 

    BTW ever since the Milton Berle huge cock episode we've been getting a lot of e-mails and Steve is finally going to set the record straight about who’s packing in Hollywood. The Golden Poddy awards have been released and you’ll be surprised at what Talking Sopranos has been nominated for. It’s all this week plus the episode breakdown of “Where’s Johnny?” on Talking Sopranos Ep #56 S5-E6. Make sure to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and go to the Talking Sopranos website to ask questions and buy official Talking Sopranos merchandise.

     This week Oksana Lada (Irina Peltsin) and Carl Capotorto (Little Paulie Germani) join Michael Imperioli and Steve Schirripa for another amazing episode of Talking Sopranos.

     Oksana doesn’t do a lot of interviews so it’s a real pleasure to hear how she’s doing. She looks exactly the same as she did 20 years ago and just as much fun. 

     Then Carl Capotorto joins the podcast and shares some stories about the Sopranos he has never revealed before. He talks about how he auditioned for Ralphie four or five times but didn’t get the part. Then after Ralphie was cast, Georgianne Walken called him back and asked him to audition for the part again! Eventually Joe Pantoliano was cast as Ralphie and was brilliant. Carl also talks about the first time he met Tony Sirico and how Tony thought Carl was stealing his look!

     After that Michael and Steve get into the episode but get sidetracked with a few crazy stories about the Rat Pack and Napoleon’s penis….well…I guess you just have to hear it. It’s a great episode with lots of juicy info. Talking Sopranos Ep #55 S5 - Ep2 “Rat Pack”. Make sure to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and go to the Talking Sopranos website to ask questions and buy official merchandise. 

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      Will is a great guest and shares some hilarious stories about his life, the business and of course the Sopranos. He tells us about how his mother prepared him for his Sopranos audition, and how nervous he was the first day on set. He also shares a really funny story about smoking pot right before one of his scenes, and how he got through it….totally baked. He also talks about how shocked he was he first read the script where Finn catches Vito in the parking lot. He thought his character would get killed or worse and was totally up for it.

     Before breaking down this week’s episode Michael and Steve recap the body count through the first 52 episodes. There were 48 deaths so far and the bodies will continue to pile up as some big names are about to join the cast…. Steve Buscemi (Tony Blundetto), Frank Vincent (Phil Leotardo) and Robert Loggia (Feech La Manna) all make their first appearance in the season 5 premiere. It’s a great episode and a fantastic way to kick off season 5. Talking Sopranos S5 – Ep1 “Two Tonys”. Make sure to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and go to the Talking Sopranos website to ask questions and buy official Talking Sopranos merchandise. 

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     This week on Talking Sopranos Michael Imperioli and Steve Schirripa welcome a real legend. Frankie Valli (Rusty Millio), singer, songwriter and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee joins the podcast. In an extremely revealing interview, Frankie talks about growing up on the mean streets of New Jersey, and how without music, many of his friends may have ended up dead, in the mob or in jail. He also shares how he developed a close relationship with Frank Sinatra and why it all went south. He also talks about how much he loved being on the Sopranos, and was actually willing to put his entire singing career on hold for a regular part. This is absolutely a fantastic interview.

     Then Michael and Steve get into one of the best episodes from the entire Sopranos series….Whitecaps. This is one of Michael’s favorite episodes and at 72 minutes long, like a mini movie. James Gandolfini and Edie Falco are simply spectacular as we watch their marriage fall apart right before our eyes. World class acting, an Emmy award winning script and award winning directing. Possibly one of the best episodes of TV ever! Don’t miss Talking Sopranos S4-Ep13 “Whitecaps”. Make sure to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and visit the talking sopranos website to ask Michael and Steve questions or buy merchandise.

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     Can you believe Michael and Steve are almost finished with four seasons of Talking Sopranos? This week they kick things off by talking about what it’s like to pitch a TV show, movie, or book. The arduous process of selling to executives and how many hurdles you have to go through to get a project produced. It’s amazing anything ever gets made! They also share a few of their biggest hits and misses. Looking back maybe that show for Playboy may not have been the best idea…. 

     Then did you know Michael is an actor, writer, producer, director and inventor. He has a few patents pending but let’s say those patents may be pending for quite a while. Not sure how he has time for all this….and the “Steve Motherf**ks the world” video. 

     After that the guys get into this week’s episode and Tony and Carmella’s marriage is definitely starting to fall apart. Carmella is constantly dreaming about Furio, Furio is dreaming about killing Tony, and Paulie is dreaming of a big switch. BTW is Paulie so cheap that he couldn’t pick up the tab for the old ladies? There’s a great story about how Tony Sirico had a problem with Paulie strangling Minn Matrone because he thought it made him look bad. He complained to David Chase and they had him smother her to death instead. It’s all this week on Talking Sopranos S4 – Ep 12 “Eloise”. Make sure to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and go to the Talking Sopranos website to buy merchandise and ask Michael and Steve questions. 

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     Peter Riegert (Assemblyman Zellman) joins Michael and Steve for this week’s episode of Talking Sopranos. Peter is both an Oscar and Emmy nominee known for his work on Animal House, The Mask, Oscar, Barbarians at the Gate, Crossing Delancey and so much more. He talks about how he got into the business and his first TV job on M*A*S*H. He also shares what it was like to work with John Belushi and the entire cast on Animal House. Peter originally auditioned for the role of Elliot Kupferberg on the Sopranos but completely blew the audition. He didn’t get the part but David called him a year later to play Assemblyman Zellman. Peter shares some incredible stories about working with James Gandolfini and how he supported him in a way most actors would not. 

     Then Michael and Steve get into the episode but keep getting sidetracked with stories of ghosts, aliens, squid and UFO’s. They definitely don’t see eye to eye on the world beyond but do agree this is an incredible episode. Lots of fantastic inside info is revealed in Talking Sopranos “Calling All Cars” S4-Ep11. Remember to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and go to our website to buy merchandise and ask Michael and Steve questions.

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     This week Michael and Steve welcome both Alla Kliouka (Svetlana Kirilenko) and Robert Funaro (Eugene Pontecorvo) to the Talking Sopranos podcast.

     First up it’s Alla Kliouka who played Svetlana, one of the most memorable characters of the series. She talks about what it was like to be a successful actress in the Soviet Union and how the Sopranos was her first real US gig. When she auditioned for David Chase she walked into the room as Svetlana and completely blew everybody away. She also shares how she found out she was going to have sex with Tony Soprano at the table read, and how props made that famous leg disappear.

     Then Robert Funaro joins the podcast and reveals how he was originally hired to play Ralphie. That didn’t go as planned so the writers switched gears and created Eugene just for him. He also tells Michael and Steve that just when he thought everything was going so well, he got the “Good News Bad News” call from David Chase. Robert also shares how the stunt coordinator pulled off his final scene, and what equipment was used to make it look so real.

     After that Michael and Steve share some crazy stories about Milton Berle’s huge….. and Michael’s weird thoughts on the Bermuda Triangle. Plus the episode breakdown of “The Strong, Silent Type” S4 – Ep10. Make sure to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and go to the Talking Sopranos website for new merchandise. 

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     This week Michael and Steve welcome two exciting guests. Al Sapienza who played Mikey Palmice, and Dan Grimaldi who played both Philly and Patsy Parisi. 

     First up Al talks about how he got his start in the business. Did you know he played Ringo in Beatlemania on Broadway? Then he shares how a relationship with Jason Alexander got him the audition for the Sopranos. For Al, Mikey Palmice was the role of a lifetime and he was devastated when he heard he was getting whacked. He tried to talk David out of it, but in the end kept a positive attitude and went on to build a brilliant career after the Sopranos.

     Then professor Grimaldi joins the podcast. Dan actually has a PhD in data processing and still teaches at Kingsborough Community College. When Dan originally got out of grad school he went to work for Bell Labs and absolutely hated it. After only a week on the job he decided to quit and realized acting was the life for him. When Michael was young he used to love a horror movie called “Don’t Go In the House” which starred Dan Grimaldi. Then years later when Michael landed his first role in a professional play it was Dan who ended up playing his father. Strange…

     Then Michael and Steve get into the episode which was a big one for Joe Pantoliano. Joe won an Emmy for this season and sent this episode to the academy for consideration. Michael was also nominated that year and talks about what it’s like to win, and lose at the Emmys. There’s a lot in Talking Sopranos episode #49 “Whoever Did This” S4 - Ep9. Make sure to subscribe the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts, and go to the Talking Sopranos web site to ask questions and get official merchandise. 

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      This week on Talking Sopranos it’s another double header! Michael and Steve welcome both Angelo Massagli and Arthur J. Nascarella to the podcast. 

     First up it’s Angelo Massagli, Bobby Baccalieri III and Steve’s on-screen son. Angelo talks about what it was like to be part of the Sopranos at age 10. How David Chase always made him feel so important and how he helped Angelo even after the Sopranos was over. Angelo’s parents wouldn’t let him watch the show when it aired, but he recently watched the series for the first time and shares his thoughts. 

     Next up it's Steve and Michael’s good friend Arthur Nascarella. Arthur was a 21 year veteran of the NYPD and shares how that experience prepared him for a life on-screen. He auditioned for a number of roles on the Sopranos and finally hit gold with Carlo Gervasi. Arthur shares some amazing stories about how he met James Gandolfini and what he found in his dressing room the first day on set.

     Then Michael and Steve get into this week’s episode which has one of Steve’s favorite lines from the entire series. Tony says I can’t take Ralphie’s girlfriend “I already took his horse” Ouch. But that’s nothing compared to the story about Ralphie and the cheese grater. It’s a lot to take in and another fantastic episode of Talking Sopranos, Ep #48 Mergers and Acquisitions S4 - Ep8. Don’t forget to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and go to the Talking Sopranos website to ask questions and buy merchandise. https://www.talkingsopranos.com

     In this episode Michael Imperioli and Steve Schirripa try something new. They invite Sopranos Celebrity Super Fan Pete Davidson, star of SNL and The King of Staten Island to the podcast. Steve always said he wouldn’t have anyone on the podcast who wasn’t part of the show but Pete is a huge Sopranos fan. He has seen the entire series 10-15 times, knows everything about the show and even has an awesome Bada Bing tattoo to prove it. Pete is a fantastic guy and absolutely loves talking about the Sopranos. He tells us about his favorite episode, favorite villain and after all his extensive research what he thinks happened in the end. Michael and Steve also talk to Pete about how he got his start in comedy, SNL and his hit movie The King of Staten Island.

     Then Michael pulls out some old casting notes from Marco Polo, a show he wrote. When he was pre-producing the episode, casting was looking for someone to play Dr. Russ Fegoli. They started by going through the original casting notes for Bobby Bacala Sr. and Uncle Junior. Michael kept the actual documents and tells us who’s on the list and all the comments associated with each actor. It’s fascinating!

     After that Michael and Steve get into this week’s episode. Paulie is out of jail and complaining, Adrianna thinks she has a way out from under the Feds and Tony’s old goomah ends up in a very unlikely place. It’s all this week on Talking Sopranos #47, “Watching Too Much Television” S4-Ep7. Make sure to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts, and visit the talking Sopranos website to ask Michael and Steve questions and get official merchandise.

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     Emmy award winning director Jack Bender joins Michael and Steve for this week’s exciting episode of Talking Sopranos. Jack talks about his incredible journey which began as a young actor appearing on such famous TV shows as All in the Family, The Mod Squad and Mary Tyler Moore. In the 80’s Jack moved behind the camera and since then has enjoyed an illustrious career being nominated for 9 Emmy awards and winning one. Over the years Jack has produced and directed episodes for 73 different TV series including Lost, Games of Thrones, The Last Ship and Mr. Mercedes. He also directed 4 Sopranos episodes including “Another Toothpick” which features some of Steve’s most difficult and demanding scenes. Jack also talks about how he got his start in Hollywood and his father who was the furrier to the stars. He became friends with David Chase on I’ll Fly Away and jumped at the chance to work with him again on the Sopranos. He shares lots of behind the scenes stories including his first day on set and how everyone was worried because he was “one of David’s friends” but over time they all saw his amazing talent. 

     Then Michael and Steve get into this week’s episode which is one that Michael wrote. Once again, another episode that Michael created which does not feature Bobby Bacala at all. Steve will definitely have something to say about this. This is a big episode for Artie Bucco, and John Ventimiglia absolutely knocks it out of the park. Michael also shares lots of inside info about what his was thinking while writing the script and what the entire episode really means. Get ready for Talking Sopranos S4-Ep6 “Everybody Hurts”. Don’t forget to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts. Post questions for Michael and Steve and buy official talking sopranos merchandise at http://www.talkingsopranos.com

     This special episode features two of the most memorable and law-abiding characters from the series. 

     First up Lola Glaudini. She actually played two parts on the show, Agent Deborah Ciccerone and Danielle from Whippany. Lola tells Michael and Steve about her unconventional childhood and what it was like growing up surrounded by actors, artists, and lots of parties. She also talks about how she got the gig on the Sopranos and how excited she was to land a role on her favorite TV show. She tells us about her first day on set and how she thought Michael was a bit stand off-ish…Hummm Steve’s definitely gonna have something to say about that.

     Then in part two of this law enforcement special Matt Servitto (Agent Dwight Harris)  joins the show. He talks about his early days at Julliard and what it was like attending such a prestigious and respected school. He originally auditioned for the roles of Father Phil and Agent Grasso. He didn’t get either but ended up with something even better, the role of Agent Harris. David Chase actually sent him to FBI school to learn the tricks of the trade and often had real agents on the set who said they “liked what he was doing”. 

     After that Michael and Steve get onto this week’s episode which is a great one. Michael also tells an exciting story about going to Saratoga to watch Tony Sirico’s race horse, Carmineuch, win his first race. It’s a packed episode you won’t want to miss. Talking Sopranos S4-E5 "Pie-o-My". Make sure to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts. You can also ask Michael and Steve questions or buy merchandise at htttp://www.talkingsopranos.com

       This week on Talking Sopranos Michael and Steve welcome everybody’s favorite Soprano’s character, Dominic Chianese (Uncle Junior). In this rare and revealing interview Dominic talks about his start in musical theater and his long and impressive singing career. He shares how he learned the craft of acting and how discipline and process played such a huge role in his success. He also talks about working with Al Pacino, Francis Ford Coppola and how he got the part in the Godfather.

      Dominic talks about getting the role on the Sopranos and how it completely changed his life. At age 62 he literally went from a one-bedroom apartment to living the high life. How working with Nancy Marchand was such a pleasure and how James Gandolfini was the brother he never had. It’s also no surprise that Dominic’s favorite lines were the throw aways like “Pass the Peppers” and “Get your number 2 pencils and get out of here!”

       Then Michael and Steve break down this week’s episode. Things are heating up between Furio and Carmela and the 90 lb mole on Ginny Sack’s ass is going to be a huge problem. Michael and Steve also talk about diets, superstitions and the evil eye. It’s all this week on Talking Sopranos S4-Ep4 “The Weight”. Make sure to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and ask Michael and Steve questions at https://www.talkingsopranos.com

     Michael and Steve are joined by their good friend Ray Abruzzo (Little Carmine). They have a blast talking about old times and all the laughs they've had on the Sopranos set. Ray explains about how a nice Italian American boy from Queens ended up in show business, and about his days on LA Law and Dynasty. He also shares his Sopranos audition story. Originally Little Carmine was supposed to be a 300 lb sweaty gangster but when Ray made a little movement with his neck, and mis-pronounced a word David was convinced he was the guy. Ray also tells Michael and Steve about his first day on set and how his worst nightmare actually came true. 

     Then Michael and Steve get into the episode which is one that Michael wrote. This was a bit of an F U to all the Italian American anti-deformation people who were against the Sopranos but probably never watched it. It also aired in 2002 two weeks before Columbus day. That year Dominic Chianese and Lorraine Bracco were asked to march in the NYC Columbus Day parade but were banned after this episode aired. Mayor Bloomberg was so upset, he walked off the parade as well and took Lorraine and Dominic to lunch instead.

This is also a huge episode for Steve and Bobby Bacala. Steve talks about how he was able to prepare for the difficult scenes and how director Tim Van Patten guided him through it. The guys also talk about how they get ready for this podcast plus Steve asks Michael a very very personal question. Don’t miss Talking Sopranos Episode #43 “Christopher” S4-Ep3. Make sure to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and ask Michael and Steve questions at http://www.talkingsopranos.com

     In this special episode Michael and Steve are joined by two amazing guests. The first is the infamous Jerry Adler (Hesh). Jerry talks about his illustrious acting career and what is was like to grow up as part of the renowned Adler family. Jerry shares stories about how he got involved in the Sopranos, and that he may be the only actor who never auditioned for his role. He also tells Michael and Steve about how David told him the original idea for the Sopranos was centered around the music business, and the relationship between Hesh and Tony. 

     Then Michael and Steve welcome their second guest Mathew Price. Mathew was the Production Sound Mixer on the series and worked on all 86 episodes. Matt has more than a few stories because over the years he saw the good the bad and the ugly. He shares a funny story about Lorraine Bracco, a braid of hair, James Gandolfini and, well, you have to hear it….Currently Matt is working on the Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and was recently honored with an Emmy for his work. 

     After that Michael and Steve get into this week’s episode and there’s a lot going on. The stakes are getting higher and the show is getting darker. Christopher’s drug use, Adrianna new relationship, Jackie’s murder and of course Ralphie. Talking Sopranos #42 “No Show” Sopranos S2 Ep2. Make sure to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos Podcast wherever you get your podcasts and ask Michael and Steve questions at https://www.talkingsopranos.com

Michael and Steve kick off season four by welcoming Federico Castelluccio (Furio Giunta). Federico talks about his incredible career as both an actor and a painter. How he got the role on the Sopranos, and how he originally read for the part of Johnny Sack. When he walked into the audition with an Italian accent, and said he was born in Naples but grew up in Patterson NJ, he was destined to play Furio. Federico shares a great story about his first day on set and the infamous brothel scene. The pressure was on and he knocked it out of the park…literately. 

Then Michael and Steve talk about travel, places they’ve been and places they would love to go. Why is it no surprise that Steve is a terrible traveler…and Tony Sirico is even worse.

After that the guys break down the Soprano’s season four premiere. This is a crazy one and when it first aired the folks at Icelandair complained about the horrible way their stewardesses were being depicted…..but Quasimoto predicted all of this…. Don’t miss Talking Sopranos #41 “For All Debts Public and Private” S4 – Ep1. Make sure to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts. Ask Michael and Steve questions or get official merchandise at http://www.talkingsopranos.com.

In this episode of Talking Sopranos Michael and Steve wrap up season three. Can you believe we’re already through 40 episodes! They kick things off by talking about some of their friends and colleagues in the business. What it took for them to achieve success, what they have to do to stay on top. Then they break down the Sopranos season three finale. In this one everybody is out for themselves and Jackie Jr. is gonna pay big time. Paulie and Ralphie are at each other’s throats and Adrianna meets a new friend. Along the way Michael and Steve touch on stories about Howard Stern’s wedding, Dominic Chianese’s bachelor party, UFO’s and of course the latest update on the “Steve Mother**cks the World video”. It’s a great ride and an awesome way to finish off season three. Talking Sopranos #40 “Army of One” Sopranos S3 Ep-13. Don’t forget to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts. Ask questions and buy merchandise at http:///www.talkingsopranos.com

Michael and Steve spend 90 minutes with the Sopranos series creator David Chase. This Talking Sopranos special holiday episode is dedicated entirely to this exciting and revealing interview. David shares his intimate thoughts about the show, many of which have never been heard before. He answers questions about how he got the idea for the series, his complicated relationship with James Gandolfini and of course the ending. There’s no better way for Talking Sopranos to wrap up 2020 than spending it with the man who started it all. Don’t miss Talking Sopranos Episode #39 “90 minutes with David Chase". Remember to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts. You can also send questions and buy official Talking Sopranos merchandise at talkingsopranos.com

This week Michael and Steve are joined by the incredible and talented Annabella Sciorra (Gloria Trillo). Annabella’s role of Gloria was one of the most memorable characters on the series and she was nominated for an Emmy for her performance. Annabella talks about how she got her start in the business, how she landed her first big role in True Love and her early days with Aida Turturro. Then she talks about her incredible time on the Sopranos. Originally she read for another role but she fell in love with the character of Gloria. At first David wanted Gloria to look more like Melfi but Annabella said No No No…She went with a much more alluring look and it worked. Tony was drawn in like a moth to a flame. She shares a great story about how she may have gone a little too far in a fight scene with James Gandolfini. 

Then Michael and Steve get onto this week’s episode which is absolutely fantastic. It's like a masterclass in acting as Annabella and Jim deliver some of the best performances of the series. Gloria is pushing Tony to the limit. Jackie Jr makes the worst decision of his life and Carmella is questioning everything. David Chase always liked to make the 12th episode of a season a big one and this does not disappoint. Talking Sopranos #38 “Amour Fou” S3 Ep-12. Make sure to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and go to the Talking Sopranos web site to ask questions and buy merchandise

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Also make sure to check out the Friends of Firefighters Virtual event, 

Friday December 18th at 7pm ET.

This special two-hour event will feature members of the original Sopranos cast who will answer questions and perform a live script reading written by Terrence Winter and David Chase. It’s an important organization that supports active and retired FDNY firefighters and their families who have been impacted by the trauma these heroes face daily. For more information go to https://tiltify.com/+sopranos/reunion. 

This week it’s Pine Barrens with guest Steve Buscemi…need I say more? This episode of the Sopranos is one of the greatest hours in the history of television. Now Michael and Steve are going to break it down scene by scene. We kick things off with an interview with Steve Buscemi who directed the episode and was nominated for an Emmy for his work. Steve talks about how the idea for the story came from a dream by Tim Van Patten, and how the episode randomly dropped to him to direct. He shares stories about how Jersey wouldn’t approve the show's permits so the outdoor scenes had to be shot in Harriman State Park, NY rather than NJ. How the snow was a complete accident and what it took to get Tony Sirico to mess up those wings. 

Then before Michael and Steve break down the episode we better check the Wing-o-Meter. In this episode Tony goes from level one to level four and all the way to total bozo! 

After that Michael and Steve talk about how several of the scenes were shot, locations where they were shot, and what it was like spending four days in the freezing cold. Steve has a hilarious story about what it took to make Jim laugh when he saw Bobby in the ridiculous hunting outfit. Then things start to get a bit strange.  Michael talks about squid from outer space and whether Steve is smarter than a dolphin. But that’s just the beginning because after all we are in the Pine Barrens….and the Jersey devil is about to stir things up. A horse head, kangaroo body, bat wings and a forked tail…..really? Steve is going to go off! This is a great one. Pine Barrens…Talking Sopranos Episode #37. Make sure to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and go to talkingsopranos.com to ask Michael and Steve questions and buy official merchandise. 

      Michael and Steve are joined by guest Max Casella (Benny Fazio). Max is a show business veteran who has appeared in a number of hit movies and TV shows including; The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Inside Llewyn Davis, Blue Jasmine, Doogie Howser and of course the Sopranos. He talks about how he got his start in the business and what it was like to work with Woody Allen, The Coen Brothers and to perform the Lion King on Broadway. He also shares his story of auditioning for David Chase and how he thought it was the worst audition of his life. Imagine how shocked he was when he landed the re-occurring role of Benny Fazio. 

      Then the guys turn their focus to food. Mexican, Italian, Chinese, Pizza, whatever. They trade stories of amazing meals they’ve had and their top restaurants in NY, LA, Sidney and around the world. Plus get the scoop on all the cool little places the Sopranos cast used to go during and after shooting the show. 

     After that Michael and Steve get into this week’s show which sort of a Christmas episode…Sopranos style. Bobby wants nothing to do with Kris Kringle, Sil is having nightmares about Pussy, and the kids tell Santa to go f**k himself. Paulie talks about the real story of Christmas where the elves give good kids toys and the bad ones a beating. Ho F**king Ho, Taking Sopranos is taking on S3 E10 “To Save Us All From Satan’s Power”. Don’t forget to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and go to the talking sopranos web site to post questions, buy merchandise and listen to Michael’s original music. 

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Michael provides some amazing insight into the story as this was the second of five episodes he wrote. He tells us where the title came from, the story behind the Lollipop Lounge and how he came up with many of the ideas. This one also includes a short scene with an actress who at the time was a complete unknown but went on to become none other than Lady Gaga. She’s one of the girls by the pool watching AJ and friends trash the place. Adriana’s dream might come true, Jackie Jr is headed down a bad road and Tony and Gloria are really heating up the snake house. Michael and Steve are gonna get into it all. Bobby Bacala does not appear in this episode and Steve’s still pissed about it. You would think Michael would have written him in somewhere…this might get ugly. Then the guys also take on Hollywood and talk about which actors and directors they love, and which ones are real jerkoffs. Watch out because a few of these folks are gonna make it into the video that will be revealed after Steve’s death…now entitled "Steve MotherF**ks the World" Check out the Telltale Moozadell. Sopranos S3-E9. Don’t forget to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and take advantage of the Talking Sopranos Black Friday sale at talkingsopranos.com.

Emmy award winner Martin Bruestle joins Michael Imperioli and Steve Schirripa for Talking Sopranos Ep #34 “He Is Risen”. Martin was a producer on the show, head of all post-production and responsible for selecting much of the show’s incredible music. In essence he was in charge of everything from when the director said cut until the show hit air. He shares some fantastic stories about how the series was made, his directorial debut and what went on behind the scenes. Martin tells us how the Sopranos set a new standard for music on TV and boy did it cost some big bucks. He also shares the story of how “Don’t Stop Believing” was chosen for the final scene and how he was able to get the rights from Steve Perry and Journey. 

Then Michael and Steve break down this week’s episode. Jackie Jr is rubbing everyone the wrong way and Ralphie..well…this is headed down a bad road. Michael and Steve also share Thanksgiving stories and a crazy night at the SAG awards when Jim was hurling dinner rolls at Richard Dreyfuss. Check out this all new episode of Talking Sopranos and remember to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts. Black Friday is coming so remember to stock up on the merchandise at talkingsopranos.com 

Emmy award winning Cinematographer Phil Abraham joins Michael and Steve for another exciting episode of Talking Sopranos. Phil worked on all six seasons of the Sopranos and shares some great stories from behind the camera. He talks about how James Gandolfini was once  leery about a director so he tanked the scene just to see if the director would notice. He also talks about directing his first episode, and what it was like being part of crazy Soprano's family. 

Then Michael and Steve get into this week’s episode which is one of Edie Falco’s best. Carmela tries therapy on her own but is shaken by what Dr Krakower tells her. Did you know that Mike Nichols originally agreed to play the role of the doctor but bailed after the table read? Junior undergoes an operation for cancer and places his life in the hands of a man named Kennedy. Unfortunately doctors in real life aren’t what they’re like on TV….wait what? Michael and Steve dig into the whole Kennedy mystique and Michael tells us what he really thinks of Ronald Regan. It’s all this week on Talking Sopranos Ep #33 “Second Opinion” S3 Ep7. Make sure to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and go to talkingsopranos.com to ask question and get official talking sopranos merchandise. 

Michael and Steve are joined by Ariel Kiley (Tracee) the Bada Bing dancer who was featured in this episode. In this extremely compelling interview Ariel talks about how working on the Sopranos was actually her first acting job. How she was able to play such a difficult role and the incredible advice she got from James Gandolfini that changed her life. 

After Ariel’s interview Michael and Steve break down one of the Sopranos most controversial episodes. At this point in the series David Chase thought fans were starting to glorify the characters and needed to be reminded that these were brutal gangsters. The mother, the daughter, the goomah, the sister, the hooker and the dancer. They all play an important role in this dramatic story of power, privilege, violence and misfortune. When this episode originally aired it got a huge amount of pushback and many fans dropped their HBO subscriptions and boycotted the series. This one gets a bit heavy.

Then Michael and Steve lighten things up with some hilarious stories of insane parties that last for days. Michael also talks about his favorite cars on the show including the beautiful Maserati. It’s all on this episode of Talking Sopranos #32 “University” S3 Ep 6. Remember to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and remember to go to talkingsopranos.com to ask Michael and Steve questions and order official Talking Sopranos merchandise.

This week on Talking Sopranos Michael and Steve take on another dramatic and exciting Sopranos episode. This is one of Michael’s favorites, and a big one for Steve because it’s the first time Bobby Bacala was featured as a main character. Michael and Steve kick things off by talking about their favorite books, what they’ve read and what they’re reading now. It’s no surprise their tastes are completely different but it’s a great reading list so definitely take some notes. After that they get into some of their most embarrassing moments. Steve shares a few stories from the club and the church, while Michael remembers how he ruined a wedding when he worked at a catering hall. Then they get into this week’s episode which is a great one. Steve talks about working with the incredible Bert Young and what he was like on set. They share an incredible story about an actor who had “One Line on the Sopranos” and turned it into a viral video and a part on Boardwalk Empire. Michael and Steve also talk about their superstitions, Bigfoot and why you should never pour wine overhand. Lots to take in on Talking Sopranos Episode #31 “Another Toothpick” S3 E5. Remember to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and go to talkingsopranos.com to post questions and buy official merchandise.

Emmy award winning writers Robin Green and Mitchell Burgess join Michael and Steve for a special episode of Talking Sopranos. They share stories about how they first met David Chase and their work together on Northern Exposure. Then they talk about how they got the gig on the Sopranos and what is was like in the writer’s room early on. How Tony Sirico freaked out when a character referred to him as a bully and made Robin and Mitchell change the script to call Paulie a psycho. There are more crazy stories about setting a bar on fire and some wild times with James Gandolfini. 

Then Steve breaks out Bobby Bacala’s infamous train hat as he and Michael take on this week’s episode. It’s a dramatic, brutal and emotional show that got a lot of blowback when it first aired. Many people cancelled their subscription to HBO after seeing it. Michael and Steve also share some thoughts about their approach to acting and how they’re able to remember all those lines. There’s stories of how Tony Sirico actually went on an expedition to find the Dutchman’s lost gold and a crazy Sopranos open casting call that drew over 15,000 people. It’s a jam-packed episode! Talking Sopranos #30 “Employee of the Month” S3 Ep4. Remember to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and go to talkingsopranos.com to post questions and buy official merchandise. 

Aida Turturro (Janice Soprano) joins Michael and Steve for this week’s hilarious episode of Talking Sopranos. Aida chats about her early days with James Gandolfini and how he had to put his clothes in garbage bags when he moved from place to place. But even back then Aida always said he was destined for greatness. When the role of Janice came up it was Jim, or James as she calls him, who put her up for the part. She said fate would determine if she got the role or not but either way Jim had to lend her rent money. Then Michael, Steve and Aida share a bunch of really funny behind the scenes stories you just have to hear. How Jim and Aida fought like brother and sister on set, the infamous chicken salad incident and a great story about Nancy Marchand. 

Then Michael and Steve break down this week’s episode which is a big one for both their characters. They also talk about how the real life underground gambling business works and what it’s like to be a “Made Man”. 

It’s all this week on Talking Sopranos Ep #29 “Fortunate Son” S3 Ep3. Remember to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and go to talkingsopranos.com to submit questions and hear Michael’s original music.  

This week Michael and Steve are joined by Jason Cerbone (Jackie Aprile Jr). Jason talks about what it was like to join the cast of this incredible show and how he was absolutely in awe of the amazing talent on set. He also talks about how he got the news his character would get killed off and how his relationship with the cast grew after he got whacked. 

Michael and Steve also talk about the concept of fame, how it affected them, and how people began to treat them differently after the Sopranos. Then they get into this week’s episode which is a big one. This was the last episode with Nancy Marchand and with her passing the show took a monumental shift. Janice is back in the picture, Ralph is filling the void left by Richie and Tony and Meadow are completely at odds. So how come the entire cast couldn’t stop laughing? It’s all on this week’s episode of Talking Sopranos, Proshai, Livushka S-3 Ep-2. Make sure to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and go to talkingsopranos.com to ask Michael and Steve questions, get official merchandise and hear Michael’s original music. 

Kathrine Narducci (Charmaine Bucco) joins Michael and Steve for the Talking Sopranos Season 3 premiere. Robert DeNiro, Joe Pesci, Martin Scorsese, Kathrine talks about working with them all. But her most amazing story might be how she took her son on an open casting call, and ended up walking away with her first role playing opposite Robert DeNiro in A Bronx Tale. Kathrine is a great guest and certainly had a lot of fun working on the Sopranos.

Then the feds are listening as Michael and Steve break down this week’s program. Lots to talk about as David Chase tried something a little different in this episode. The feds are front and center and Tony better watch what he says because the basement is now wired for sound. Don’t miss Mr. Ruggerio’s Neighborhood, Talking Sopranos Episode #27 (S3-Ep1). Make sure to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts. Send your questions to Michael and Steve and buy official Talking Sopranos merchandise at talkingsopranos.com. 

In our amazing Season 2 finale Michael and Steve welcome the one, and only “Big Pussy”, Vinny Pastore. He was a killer, a rat, a gangster and audiences absolutely loved him. Definitely one of the best episodes of the season. Vinny talks about what it was like to be on the best show of all time, and then get whacked at the end of season two. He was devastated at the time but ended up being the first Soprano to take on Hollywood. Vinny is a fantastic guest!

Then after months in the shop the Wing-O-Meter finally makes its historic debut. 

After that Michael and Steve break down one of the most iconic Soprano’s episodes of all time. Never before had TV audiences seen a main character go out like this. Was it really the vindaloo or was Tony just sick about having to take out his best friend. It’s all in Talking Sopranos Episode #26 (Sopranos S-2 Ep #13) “Funhouse”. Make sure to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and visit talkingsopranos.com to ask questions and buy official merchandise.

   The evil Richie Aprile (David Proval) joins Michael and Steve for this week’s episode of Talking Sopranos. David is an emotional guest who talks about his incredible career, his big break with Martin Scorsese on Mean Streets, and how he got the gig on the Sopranos. He also shares an amazing story about his first audition with James Gandolfini, and how he used his anger and rage at the entertainment industry to create Richie’s Aprile’s character. 

   Michael and Steve also talk about actors and entertainers who worked their whole lives to become what seemed like an overnight success….It ain’t easy folks!

   Then Michael and Steve break down this week’s episode which is definitely a shocker! Audiences were stunned when Janice pulled the trigger and lots to unpack 20 years later. Both David Proval and Aida Turturro deserved Emmys for this one. Don’t miss Talking Sopranos Ep #25 “The Knight in White Satin Armor”. Remember to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts, and go to talkingsopranos.com to ask questions, get official merchandise and hear Michael’s original music. 

Guest Louie Lombardi (Agent Skip Lipari) joins Michael and Steve for this week’s amazing episode of Talking Sopranos. This is truly a family affair as Louie talks about growing up with Vinny Pastore, and how they both ended up on the same incredible show, playing opposite each other! He also knew Frank Pellegrino from the neighborhood who ended up playing his boss on the Sopranos. How crazy is that? 

Then Michael and Steve break down another fantastic episode of TV’s greatest series. Tony is getting it from all sides as everything is starting to build up to the season two finale…Don’t miss Talking Sopranos Ep #24 “House Arrest”. Subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and please give us a good rating. Get your official Talking Sopranos merchandise and submit questions to Michael and Steve at talking sopranos.com.

Michael and Steve are joined by John Ventimiglia (Artie Bucco) one of the Soprano’s most lovable characters. John talks about the early days with Michael and how he got his start in the business. Then he shares some stories about how he originally read for the role of Tony Soprano, his inspiration for the character of Artie and how he once sent an actor to the hospital sort of by accident. 

Then Michael and Steve dig into this week episode which has some of the best acting of the series. Tony wrestles with the thought of spending life behind bars, Carmela almost makes a huge mistake with the wall paper guy and Richie attempts to make his big move with Junior. It’s all on Talking Sopranos Episode #23 “Bust-Out”. Remember to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and don’t forget to get your official Talking Sopranos merchandise at talkingsopranos.com

This week on Talking Sopranos Michael and Steve take on one of the most memorable episodes of the Sopranos ever. This one is extra special for Michael because wrote it! Originally it was a spec script he created in between season one and two where Christopher OD’s. David read it, loved it, and thought it would work perfect in an episode where Christopher gets shot. The story is fantastic and there’s lots of inside info as Paulie Walnuts is haunted by ghosts from his past, and a vision of life after death. Didn’t his donations to the church cover all this? In one of the most powerful scenes of the entire series Tony confronts Melfi about his Italian heritage, honor, family and loyalty. As Christopher says to Carmela when she asks about the hospital drugs…It’s pretty f**cking good. S2 E9 of the Sopranos “From Where to Eternity” takes us to some crazy places. Make sure to check it out and please subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast where ever you get your podcasts. Also post questions for Michael and Steve and get your official Talking Sopranos merchandise at talking sopranos.com

     Sopranos director and producer Allen Coulter joins Michael and Steve for this week’s exciting episode of Talking Sopranos. Allen is a Sopranos insider who directed 12 episodes and was the producer for 20 more. Allen shares his incredible story about how he got his very slow start in the business, and how his life was changed the day he met David Chase. He also talks about the challenges of working with James Gandolfini and of course the craziness of directing the one and only Tony Sirico.

     Then the pundit is back piling on to his insane theory about the Sopranos. Now he has Michael and Steve second guessing themselves! Who the heck is this person and does this crazy theory have any merit at all?

     Finally Michael and Steve break down this week’s episode which is a fan favorite. Who doesn’t love the way Richie Aprile says “The Jacket”. Lots of story, lots of incredible acting and lots to dig into in this episode. Talking Sopranos #21 “Full Leather Jacket” S2 E8 of the Sopranos.  Make sure to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and for official Talking Sopranos merchandise go to talkingsopranos.com. 

Let’s put one thing to rest, the end was the end…or was it? In this episode of Talking Sopranos Michael and Steve discuss some inside info about the famous cut to black, and the lengths David Chase went to confuse the public. Then they take on the film business and talk about some of the pros and schmos they’ve met along the way. After that Michael and Steve dig into this week’s episode of HBO’s groundbreaking series. This was a big one for Christopher who has to decide if he wants to make his mark in Hollywood or with the Soprano crew. Big pussy is on his way out courtesy of the feds and Tony is caught in the middle. It’s Hollywood on one end, and a rat on the other in this exciting episode of Talking Sopranos S2 E7 “D-Girl”. Don’t forget to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast where ever you get your podcasts and visit talkingsopranos.com to ask Michael and Steve questions and get official Talking Sopranos merchandise.

This is a great one! Lorraine Bracco (Dr Melfi) joins Michael and Steve for a very special Talking Sopranos podcast. She reveals how David Chase originally wanted her to play Carmela, but she said it was Melfi or nothing. She talks about how she was absolutely blown away when she first saw The Sopranos pilot, and shares some crazy stories about what James Gandolfini used to do to her off camera. 

This week the Pundit returns and Steve goes absolutely ballistic. Is there really anything to the theory that Tony actually dies in season one? It’s Steve vs the Pundit round 2. Then Michael and Steve break down this week’s episode. Tony is now running the executive card game but when an old friend loses big, things are definitely headed down a bad road. Talking Sopranos Episode #19 "The Happy Wanderer", Sopranos S2 E6. Don’t forget to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and post questions for Michael and Steve at talkingsopranos.com

This is an exciting episode with Terry Winter. He talks with Michael and Steve about how he got his start in the business, how he came up with many of the ideas for the show and writing the script for The Wolf of Wall Street. It’s a great interview! Then a second special guest joins the show as Michael and Steve reminisce about their love of baseball. In a crazy moment they discover they may have actually crossed paths at a famous game over 50 years ago. 

Then Michael and Steve breakdown this week’s amazing episode. This was the first shot with Federico Castelluccio (Furio) and you have you hear how at 4:30am on day one he absolutely knocked it of the park…..literally. The guys discuss how big questions are starting to arise for Tony Soprano and Christopher’s incredible James Dean. It’s all on Talking Sopranos #18 S2 E5 “Big Girls Don’t Cry”. 

Make sure to go to subscribe to the talking sopranos podcast where ever you get your podcasts and go to talkingsopranos.com to post questions for Michael and Steve. 

Michael, Steve and the infamous fat suit take on this week’s episode of the Sopranos. This one was shot in Italy and Tony Sirico, aka Paulie Walnuts, had more than a few issues dealing with the Italian people, the food and the bathrooms. Michael tells the story of how he was completely hung over and almost missed the plane and did David Chase actually got robbed in Naples? Then Michael and Steve breakdown this week’s episode and talk about what it’s like to appear on network talk shows both US and abroad.…It’s all on Talking Sopranos #17 “Commendatori” Season 2 Ep 8 of HBO’s groundbreaking series. Make sure to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts. Don’t forget to visit talkingsopranos.com to post questions for Michael and Steve.

Evil has arrived and its name is Richie Aprile! In this episode Michael and Steve get into the dramatic appearance of this season’s villain and Meadow’s insane house party. They discuss how Tony is now getting it from all sides. Janice is conniving her way through the family, Meadow is playing the Mob boss like a fiddle and Melfi is now using Tony as her therapy. Watch out Beansie the car is in high gear it's headed for you. Plus Michael and Steve talk about what it’s like to audition for a gig and some of their funniest hits and misses. It’s all on this week’s episode of Talking Sopranos #16 S2 Ep3 Toodle-F**king-Oo. Make sure to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and check out some of Michael’s music at TalkingSopranos.com.

A double barrel episode! Bobby Bacala makes his first appearance on the series and Sopranos Costume Designer Juliet Polcsa joins Michael and Steve for some incredible conversation. Juliet talks about fitting Steve for the infamous fat suit, how an ill-fitting costume got James Gandolfini in just the right mood and how Tony Sirico’s hair, of course, defined his clothes.

Then Steve talks about his first day on set and how Michael may, or may not, have high hatted him. The s**t is going to hit the fan in this week’s episode as it’s now confirmed that Big Pussy is a rat, Janice and Livia are locked in an evil chess match and Tony is caught in the middle. Don’t miss Talking Sopranos Episode #14 “ Do Not Resuscitate”. Remember to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts and keep those questions coming at talkingsopranos.com. 

Michael and Steve take on the Season 2 Premiere ….and this episode does not disappoint. The Sopranos series is getting bigger, there are more characters, more plot twists and more downright evil for Tony Soprano to deal with. His best friend might be a rat, indictments are coming down, his uncle and mother tried to have him killed, his crazy insane sister is coming, his goomah, his wife wants him back in therapy….It’s insanity! All this plus Michael and Steve share stories about how it all started, their first jobs and how they originally got into show business. Make sure to check out Talking Sopranos episode #14 “Guy Walks Into a Psychiatrist’s Office”. Remember to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get you podcasts and keep those questions coming at talkingsopranos.com.

Emmy award winner Edie Falco (Carmela) joins Michael and Steve for the exciting Talking Sopranos season one finale. Edie talks about how she got her start in the business, her first thoughts about the Sopranos script, and how she thought she had absolutely no chance at the role of Carmela. She also reminisces about all the fun she had on the set, the show’s amazing success and what it was like to work with James Gandolfini. Then Michael and Steve breakdown the incredible finale of season one. Make sure to check out Talking Sopranos S1 Ep13 “I Dream of Jeannie Cusamano”. Remember to keep your questions coming for Michael and Steve at Talkingsopranos.com. 

This one is a shocker in more ways than one. Michael and Steve discover an outlandish theory about Tony Soprano. They also talk about the ridiculous Paulie Walnuts anthrax scare, Steve’s views on assassination and what movies influenced their lives. Michael and Steve also remember James Gandolfini and talk about when they first heard the devastating news about his death. This episode is packed with tons of inside info about the script and the production of one of the Sopranos wildest episodes. Was it a dream, was it the lithium or have we all been fooled for 20 years! The secret lies with “Isabella” Season 1 Episode 12 of Talking Sopranos. Keep those questions coming for Michael and Steve at talkingsopranos.com and remember to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

Steve and Michael reveal a story about how Tony Sirico was horrified when he saw the script for this episode. He complained to David Chase who changed a line about Paulie Walnuts. Then Michael and Steve are joined by director Henry Bronchtein. He explains how he shot the amazing scene with Detective Makazian plunging to his death and the dramatic moments between Tony and “Big Pussy”. Who was telling the truth, who was the rat? Even Henry and Vinny Pastore didn’t know for sure. This is a wild one and the title tells it all….This week Talking Sopranos takes on “Nobody Knows Anything” Season 1 Episode 11 of greatest TV series ever! Thanks for all your support and keep those questions coming at talkingsopranos.com.

Casting directors Georgianne Walken and Sheila Jaffe join Michael and Steve to talk about how they cast James Gandolfini, Steven Van Zandt and the rest of the Sopranos characters. They also share stories about Tony Sirico, Aida Turturro and how Jerry Stiller almost became Hesh. Then Michael and Steve breakdown this week’s episode which was a break out for Drea de Matteo. It’s all this and more on Talking Sopranos Episode #10 “A Hit is a Hit”. Go to Talking Sopranos.com to post AMA questions for Michael and Steve and don’t forget to subscribe to the Talking Sopranos podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

This week Michael and Steve take on the Sopranos S1 Ep 9. Michael tells how David Chase brought in a retired mobster to help the writers develop the concept for this episode. He also shares a crazy story of a night that got completely out of control when he and John Ventimiglia (Artie Bucco) sublet an apartment from a real duke in NYC. Steve gives new meaning to the term “Beatle Wig” and explains why real mobsters won’t do what Junior Soprano is so good at. Then Michael and Steve head into the mouth of the rat and breakdown all the secrets buried in this episode. Don’t miss Talking Sopranos episode #9 “Boca”, and remember to keep the questions for Michael and Steve coming at talkingsopranos.com.

Jamie Lynn-Sigler tells Michael & Steve how she got the role of Meadow Soprano, what it was like to work with James Gandolfini and her amazing time on the groundbreaking HBO series. She talks about how she originally thought the Sopranos was a musical and asked David Chase if he needed her to sing at the audition? Then Michael and Steve breakdown the Sopranos S1 Ep 8 “The Legend of Tennessee Moltisanti”. Michael talks about how this episode was a turning point for his character and his first thoughts on the script. All this and much more in this episode of Talking Sopranos. Make sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and send questions to Michael and Steve at talkingsopranos.com

Guest Robert Iler (AJ Soprano) joins Michael and Steve to talk about working with James Gandofini, his incredible time on the Sopranos, and being a professional poker player. Did he really shave his eyebrows in season 5? Then Michael and Steve break down the Sopranos S1 Ep 7. They discuss the flashback to 1967 and some of the David Chase’s interesting music choices. Tony tells Melfi he was always proud to be Johnny Soprano’s son but was it Livia who was the real gangster? It’s all in this this week’s episode of Talking Sopranos #7 “Down Neck”. Go to talkingsopranos.com to ask questions and more.

A Talking Sopranos exclusive! Michael Imperioli and Steve Schirripa read all new lines written by HBO series creator David Chase for the Soprano’s characters as if they were in quarantine. Then Michael and Steve breakdown this week’s episode discussing Junior’s move to the big chair, Tony’s love for Melfi and whether Livia is now pulling the strings. They also discuss what some of the Sopranos actors were really like off screen. Is Edie Falco as good a cook as Carmela and was Jim Gandolfini really more Birkenstock then gangster? It’s all in this episode of Talking Sopranos #6 “Pax Soprana”. Go to talkingsopranos.com to ask questions and more.

Sopranos S1 Ep 5 – Michael and Steve breakdown one of the most incredible Soprano’s episodes ever. This was the one HBO was worried about and David Chase had to fight for what he felt had to be done. Plus what the heck is the deal with Father Phil. Talking Sopranos #5 “College”. Remember to subscribe and send your Ask Me Anything” questions to Michael and Steve at talkingsopranos.com.

Sopranos S1 Ep4 - Guest Michael Rispoli (Jackie Aprile) talks to Steve and Michael about how he almost landed the role of Tony Soprano and his on-going friendship with James Gandolfini. Then Michael and Steve breakdown Episode 4 and tell stories of the cast’s infamous Eckle awards. What does the dream sequence actually mean, how is Tony putting Melfi’s advise to work and what was it really like to work with Dominic Chianese? It’s all in this episode of Talking Sopranos #4 “Meadowlands”. Remember to subscribe and keep those questions coming at Talkingsporanos.com.  

Michael and Steve open the books and discuss the intricacies of how this incredible show was made.  What it was like on set, read throughs, tone meetings and David Chase’s incredible attention to detail. Michael talks about the moment he realized the show was going to be a hit and what it was like working with the amazing cast. Then, Michael and Steve break down the episode scene by scene giving us some backstory on the main characters and their thoughts about the script. There’s another Ask Me Anything segment and lots of history about the cast. Don’t forget to submit your questions to talkingsopranos.com. Enjoy!

Welcome to the premiere episode of Talking Sopranos! Michael and Steve go back to the beginning and talk about how they got involved in this ground-breaking series. They discuss their initial thoughts about the show and their first auditions with David Chase. They’ll share some of their favorite stories about the cast and give us an inside look at what was going on behind the scenes. Then Michael and Steve break down the Pilot episode of this iconic series scene by scene. They discuss the little details, their favorite moments and give us a unique POV on what it all means. Plus our first Ask Anything Me Segment and more than a few surprising moments. Don’t forget to submit your questions at TalkingSopranos.com. Enjoy Sopranos Fans, this is only the beginning!

Sopranos co-stars Michael Imperioli and Steve Schirripa host the definitive Sopranos re-watch podcast. Michael and Steve follow the Sopranos series episode by episode giving fans all the inside info, behind the scenes stories and little-known facts that could only come from someone on the inside. Talking Sopranos also features interviews with additional cast members, producers, writers, production crew and special guests. Along with talking about the Sopranos, Michael and Steve will also share candid conversations about the entertainment business, their friendship and all the folks they’ve met along the way. This is a must listen for all Sopranos fans.