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Brent Faiyaz is back with two singles named for two very different, very famous fictional characters, but the singer tells Rolling Stone an important throughline connects them. “Everything I’m creating right now is about showing [a] range of concepts, principles, emotions, and experiences,” he said via email. “Innocence versus Indecency. Vulnerability versus guardedness. These tracks capture the core of that.”

One, called “Peter Pan,” is a dreamy love song, where Faiyaz coos, “Darling open up your window and take my hand ‘cause there ain’t nowhere we can’t go.

The Sopranos had an ambiguous ending, with the series’ lead antihero, Tony Soprano, hinting at being assassinated. But we never see the death as the scene cuts to black amidst a set of random shots of Tony waiting for his family in a diner. There have been clues hidden throughout the show to indicate why creator David Chase chose to end with a cut to black.

While most believe the black at the end meant that Tony was killed, what seals the deal is a hint given by the character Bobby Baccalieri a few episodes ago before his own death. The character, whose death is one of the saddest in the series, mentions in a fishing trip to Tony that their death might be so silent that they would not even hear it happen. Sounds familiar, doesn’t it?

Bobby Baccala’s Statement About Death Hinted at Tony Soprano’s...

Marvel's latest live-action TV show is nearly upon us with "Ironheart" set to debut on Disney+ later this month. The show was first announced way back in December 2020 alongside "She-Hulk," "Secret Invasion," "Armor Wars," and "I Am Groot." Most of those have come to fruition, save for "Armor Wars," which is supposedly becoming a movie. But now, after years of waiting, Riri Williams is finally getting a solo project in the Marvel Cinematic Universe -- and at least one of the show's producers has made a pretty bold comparison.

Executive producer Sev Ohanian recently spoke with SFX Magazine (via GamesRadar) about "Ironheart" ahead of its debut. We've largely been waiting for this ever since Dominique Thorne made her debut as the character in 2022's "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever." Speaking about the character, Ohanian said that "Riri is brilliant yet flawed and finds herself going down a path that I'm not...

One of the little ongoing mysteries in "The Sopranos" concerns Tony Soprano's finances: Exactly how much money does this guy make?

For the characters within the show, this question is important because it shows the obvious hole in Tony's cover story. How could a "waste management consultant" own all of these impressive material possessions? For viewers at home, it's important because it helps us wonder about the dynamics between Tony and the rest of his crew. How is Tony's house so much nicer than the other mob guys' houses? It makes sense after season 1 when Tony's the clear boss of the crew, but in the beginning, Tony is merely another capo serving under Jackie Aprile, Sr., played by Michael Rispoli. We know Tony's a strong earner, which is how he's able to get the top spot in the first place, but is he so much of a good earner...

A significant cultural exchange is set to unfold in Spain as the Korean National Opera Company embarks on a special tour as part of the ongoing Korea Season program. This initiative, supported by Kofice and the Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, aims to showcase the richness of Korean arts globally.

This year’s Korea Season holds particular importance, coinciding with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and Spain. The artistic tour serves as a vibrant celebration of this historical bond, featuring both a Gala Concert and a performance of the contemporary Korean opera Soul Mate. These events are designed to highlight Korea’s operatic tradition and foster cultural dialogue between the two nations.

The Gala Concert, a musical celebration of the diplomatic anniversary, is scheduled to take place in Barcelona. The program will feature a selection of familiar classical opera arias alongside traditional Korean songs, offering...

Charles “Charley” J. Scalies, Jr., who was best known for his portrayal of Thomas “Horseface” Pakusa on “The Wire,” died Thursday, May 1, from complications associated with Alzheimer’s. He was 84.

Scalies’ death was confirmed by his family.

“Professionally, Charley Scalies was an American actor and former business executive whose life reflected a rich blend of professional achievement, creative passion, and a true joy for life. His favorite audience was always seated around the dinner table,” the family wrote in an obituary.

In addition to “The Wire,” Scalies also appeared in five seasons of “The Sopranos” as Coach Molinaro. In a 2015 interview, he told Matthew Toffolo that having the opportunity to be part of two major series was “humbling.”

The actor added that he especially appreciated that the shows will give his family the opportunity to remember him for a long time. “But the thing that really makes me smile is knowing my great grandkids,...

Jada Confides In Stephanie About Rafe(Photo Credit –Peacock/Twitter)

The previous episode of Days of our Lives saw Chanel comforting Johnny as he grappled with his mother’s return to town and his father being in the hospital in a comatose condition. Rafe reconnected with Sami while Roman questioned Kate. On the other hand, Xander became more than outraged.

Lastly, Vivian reminded Philip of her demands. There’s a lot more drama on the way. Here’s what fans can expect from the April 15, 2025, episode of Days of our Lives when they tune in to Peacock to stream the long-running and popular daytime drama revolving around residents of Salem, Illinois.

Days Of Our Lives Spoilers: April 15, 2025

The episode on Tuesday features Javi defending Leo to Sami. Will he be able to defend him or will it lead to an argument? Up next, Jada confides in Stephanie about Rafe. Now...

Everything you need to know about The Last Of Us Season 2 Episode 1 (Photo Credit – Instagram)

If you’ve played the game, you already know things are about to get intense. Episode 1 gives us a quiet-before-the-storm vibe, letting us catch up with Joel and Ellie who’ve settled into life in Jackson. He’s busy being the town’s construction boss, and she’s out chasing danger like it’s a hobby.

But there’s tension between them, like unspoken truths hanging in the air. Then there’s Abby. Yep, she’s here, and her group is on the move with a mission that’s going to change everything. You can feel something huge brewing just beneath the surface, and by the time the credits roll, you’re either yelling at your screen or frantically looking up fan theories.

It’s emotional, messy, and totally gripping. Whether you’re Team Game...

The Young and the Restless, April 14, 2025, Spoilers(Photo Credit –CBS/Twitter)

The previous week on The Young and the Restless saw Alan finally being revealed to be Martin, Sharon and Phyllis finally getting answers from him for why they were kidnapped, Victor going ahead with his business plans and also giving Audra a solid opportunity to exact her revenge from Kyle.

There’s plenty more drama locked and on the way for fans. Here’s what the audience can expect from the April 14, 2025, episode of The Young and the Restless when they tune in to CBS to watch the long-running and popular daytime drama that revolves around the lives of Genoa City residents.

The Young & The Restless Spoilers: April 14, 2025

The first episode of the week features Jack addressing Diane’s habit of keeping secrets. The two have been happily married and have kept the family together while troubles arise,...

Days of our Lives, April 14, 2025, Spoilers(Photo Credit –NBC/Twitter)

The previous week on Days of our Lives saw the town of Salem scrambling in the aftermath of Ej being shot. Meanwhile, Sami and Vivian returned for a while and their comeback led to some surprising and exciting reunions on the soap opera. There’s a lot more slated for release this brand-new week.

From reconnecting bonds and resurging romances to troubles on the way, there’s a lot to be excited about this week. Here’s what the fans can expect from the April 14, 2025, episode of Days of our Lives when they tune in to Peacock to stream the long-running and hit daytime drama set in Salem.

Days Of Our Lives Spoilers: April 14, 2025

The first episode of the week features Chanel comforting Johnny. He has been through a lot these last couple of days. From the adoption request being...

General Hospital, April 14, 2025, Spoilers(Photo Credit –ABC/Twitter)

The previous week on General Hospital saw Kristina’s revenge against Ava going wrong while Ric and Elizabeth got into a car crash because of it. On the other hand, Carly had more than enough of Willow and confronted her for her decisions regarding the kids when it came to her affair with Drew.

Meanwhile, Ava blackmailed Alexis with the proof she had about Kristina’s tampering that led to the accident. There’s a lot of drama planned for fans of the soap opera. Here’s what the audience can expect from the April 14, 2025, episode when they tune in to ABC to watch the daytime drama show.

General Hospital Spoilers: April 14, 2025

The first episode of the week features Trina confiding in Portia. Will the mother and daughter be able to solve their issues with this heartfelt chat? On the other hand,...

What does Cynthia Bailey have to say about season 16 of The Real Housewives of Atlanta?(Photo Credit –Instagram)

The currently airing 16th season of The Real Housewives of Atlanta has been buzzing with controversy ever since it was revealed that Kenya Moore exited the edition after a dramatic encounter with newbie Brit Eady. The two weren’t getting along but when Brit claimed many times on camera that she had a pistol, thus threatening Kenya, things really went from bad to worse.

At her hair spa event, Kenya revealed explicit photos of Brit that she found online. This led to an outrage and while Bravo never said they fired her, it was revealed Kenya did not film for the rest of the season. Cynthia Bailey, who returned to Rhoa after years as a friend, spoke about all the drama.

Real Housewives Of Atlanta: Cynthia Bailey Reacts To Kenya Moore’s...

Draper. Summers. Soprano. White. Knope. Grey. Specter. In the pantheon of iconic TV characters, there are some that will always invoke that “Oh, I love them” nostalgia. Borne of our emotional investment and their own general badassery, the fondness for these fictional folks lingers way beyond the end of their on-screen runs and every now and then, we are rewarded with a well-executed return, be it for a pricey Super Bowl ad, a reboot that actually works, or in the case of Suits L.A., an expansion of the established universe that originally created these fan favorites. Nicole Weingart / NBC Which is exactly why Gabriel Macht agreed to slip back into the Tom Ford ensembles of his unforgettable and unflappable Manhattan attorney, Harvey Specter. We recently reunited with the two-time TV Guide Magazine cover star for a long-overdue catchup session about his life post-Pearson-Specter-Litt, the original cast’s group chat,...

Hulu‘s The Handmaid’s Tale sequel series The Testaments has added Mattea Conforti to its cast of series regulars, which also includes Chase Infiniti, Lucy Halliday, Ann Dowd and Rowan Blanchard.

Conforti will play ‘Becka,’ a girl of humble origins who attends school with Gilead’s elite. As she comes of age, she starts to question whether she wants the life she’s being groomed for.

The Handmaid’s Tale and The Testaments are based on the novel by Margaret Atwood. Like the mothership series, Bruce Miller serves as creator, showrunner and executive producer.

The Testaments takes place in the dystopian theocracy of Gilead more than 15 years after the events of The Handmaid’s Tale. The series is a coming-of-age story that finds a new generation of young women in Gilead, grappling with the bleak future that awaits them.

For these young women, growing up in...

There are many things to revere about the phenomenon that changed television forever, The Sopranos. It is one of the most memorable shows in history for so many reasons. Whether it's characters like Tony Soprano, Paulie Walnuts or Silvio Dante, the clothes, the cultural accuracy or the shocking moments, The Sopranos will remain a talking point until the end of time. While some elements of the show are more iconic than others, the myriad of quotes and one-liners continue to stand out most.

In social situations, fans will quote some of their favorite lines from The Sopranos, but they're usually some of the more well-known sayings, like "Whatever happened to Gary Cooper" or "You're only as good as your last envelope." However, diehard fans will recall some of the more unique quotes like "Fear knocked on the door, faith answered, there was no one there." Each one-liner is as equally distinct as the next,...

The Sopranos is still considered by fans to be one of the greatest dramas of all time. This is, in large part, due to the remarkable writing, complex characters, and their relationships with one another. The HBO series is full of flawed gangsters and tragic victims, all carrying their own trauma and driven by complicated motivations that are explored through deeply philosophical and psychological plotlines. While these characters are always interesting and often amusing, however, none are good people or truly likable. Tony Soprano and his crew are morally reprehensible, as are most of his friends and associates. Ironically, in a show full of murderers and heartless criminals, one of the characters that still receives the most hate from viewers is Tony's young son, Anthony Jr.

A.J. Soprano begins the series as a young boy and grows into a disturbed and struggling man over the course of six seasons.

There are many familiar faces returning to Hell's Kitchen in "Daredevil: Born Again." Charlie Cox, Vincent D'Onofrio, and Jon Bernthal are all heading back to where it all began for more wince-inducing comic book action that we've come to expect from this particular corner of the MCU, which doesn't pull its punches and breaks plenty of bones while doing so. Besides the major players once again entangled in the affairs of the Man Without Fear, there are also some newcomers. Sneaking into the world of kings and devils is Daniel Blake, a supporter of Wilson Fisk (D'Onofrio) who's aiding the former convict's campaign for Mayor of New York. But who is this young upstart who believes the former kingpin has what it takes? Well, if anyone in the cast is familiar with the concept of maintaining a front while engaging in criminal activity, it's Michael Gandolfini.

Highlights of his career...

TV shows tend to be nothing without their characters. They range from good, bad, and everything in between. A character’s choices usually drive the narrative, or at least provide some material for other characters to make fun of.

It’s not just other characters that poke fun at people on screen, as the audience gets free rein in deciding whether a character is worth liking or hating. The audience can love a character so much that spinoffs get created for them, or their actor receives more acclaim. But, a great show often features a character the audience simply can’t stand. Whether they’re a serial killer or just plain annoying, there are plenty of characters that are so insufferable, they can make a fan hesitate to watch a beloved show again.

Breaking Bad’s Most Divisive Character Isn’t Universally Disliked Anna Gunn plays Skyler White in Breaking Bad...

Millie Bobby Brown and Jake Bongiovi tied the knot in a small and private ceremony last year and since then have been serving up some major couple goals on a platter. As Millie Bobby Brown awaits the release of her upcoming film, The Electric State, the gorgeous couple graced fans with their presence at the film’s Los Angeles premiere. While Jake Bongiovi went for a more dapper and classy look with a black tuxedo that could never go wrong, Millie Bobby Brown stunned the industry with her beaded gold gown paired.

Millie Bobby Brown and Jake Bongiovi | Credits: @jakebongiovi / Instagram

However, the one thing fans noticed the most about her look was her hair. Channeling her inner Carmela from The Sopranos, Millie Bobby Brown proved that she is a true New Jersey wife!

Millie Bobby Brown’s The Sopranos inspired look Millie Bobby Brown in The Electric State (2025) | Credits:...

James Gandolfini's son Michael Gandolfini has downplayed the likelihood of returning for another Sopranos sequel. Michael played a younger version of his father's iconic character Tony Soprano in the 2021 spinoff The Many Saints of Newark.

Speaking to Entertainment Tonight recently, Michael wouldn't completely rule out the possibility of Tony Soprano returning but insisted the decision was entirely up to franchise creator David Chase.

Michael Gandolfini Addresses The Likelihood of New Sopranos Prequel

20 Storylines in The Sopranos That Went Nowhere

The Sopranos is one of the greatest TV shows ever, but even it features some plotlines that never received a proper conclusion.

"[Let's set] the record straight. You know, it's David's universe, it's up to David ultimately," he clarified. "I know that David's working on some other things, not Sopranos related, which would be exciting."

Michael added that he remained hopeful he would have the chance to work with Chase again someday,...

Though it made its debut back in the late 1990s and early 2000s, The Sopranos has managed to make more than just a name for itself. While it earned a lot of recognition and commendation from critics and general audiences from all across the globe during its airing days, the crime drama also made sure to leave an impact that would follow for decades to come.

The Sopranos. | Credits: HBO.

This is evident from how the show has been raging as one of the most popular choices among audiences as of late, the fanbase of which especially consists of Gen-z young buds. But while such tremendous acclaim should make its actors proud of it all, the show’s late lead James Gandolfini’s co-star Michael Imperioli predicted he wouldn’t have been all that happy about it all.

Michael Imperioli feels James Gandolfini wouldn’t be pleased with The Sopranos...

Brian De Palma’s Scarfacestands as one of the most iconic crime films in cinematic history. What many don’t realize, however, is that it’s actually a remake of a 1932 classic by Howard Hawks. This remake, though controversial at the time of its release, has since become a cult classic, influencing cinema and other entertainment since its 1983 release.

Though most audiences are familiar with De Palma’s Scarface as a stand-alone classic, few are aware of the original that paved the way for this iconic reimagining. Hawks’ version, a product of pre-Code Hollywood, set the stage for the evolution of crime cinema. While the two films share the same title and central themes, their setting, characters and treatment of violence stand as almost two separate pieces of work. The influence of both films has since echoed across generations, with each version offering its own unique perspective on the American Dream.

"Breaking Bad" creator Vince Gilligan was this year's recipient of the Writers Guild of America's Paddy Chayefsky Laurel Award for Television Writing Achievement — an annual lifetime achievement award that honors the best of the best in television writing.

In his acceptance speech (reported on by Variety), Gilligan shared some mixed thoughts on the legacy of his most famous work so far. Citing the prevalence of bad guys in the current political landscape, he feels it's time to take a break from antihero protagonists like his own teacher-turned-meth cook lead, Walter "Heisenberg" White (brilliantly played by Bryan Cranston). Gilligan explained:

"Walter White is one of the all time great bad guys. But all things being equal, I think I'd rather be celebrated for creating someone a bit more inspiring. In 2025 it's time to say that out loud, because we are living in an era where bad guys, the real life kind,...

President Trump said Wednesday that he’d been “unanimously” elected to lead the board of the Kennedy Center, completing his takeover of the Washington, D.C. cultural center.

The move, which the president announced on his social media site Truth Social, comes after Trump moved to oust members of the organization’s board who had been appointed by his predecessor, Joe Biden.

“It is a Great Honor to be Chairman of The Kennedy Center, especially with this amazing Board of Trustees,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “We will make The Kennedy Center a very special and exciting place!”

On Monday, Trump announced that Richard Grenell, who serves as his envoy for special missions, would be the interim executive director of the Kennedy Center. Trump has criticized the organization for having programming that is overly woke. “No More Drag Shows, Or Other Anti-american Propaganda — Only The Best,” Trump wrote on Truth...

Looking for something pretty, witty and bright? LA Opera can offer a production of West Side Story when it kicks off its 40th anniversary season in September at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion.

Music director James Conlon begins his 20th and final season in Los Angeles by conducting the company premiere of the Leonard Bernstein-Stephen Sondheim classic, which will feature iconic Jerome Robbins original choreography and star Gabriella Reyes as Maria and Duke Kim as Tony. The first of eight scheduled performances is Sept. 20.

Also announced Tuesday for the Chandler are Puccini’s La Bohème (starting Nov. 8) in a Herbert Ross production led by Colombian American resident conductor Lina González-Granados; Philip Glass’ ancient Egypt-set Akhnaten (Feb. 28), led by Ukrainian-born Finnish guest conductor Dalia Stasevska and starring countertenor John Holiday; and two other operas conducted by Condon: Verdi’s Falstaff (April 18), starring Craig Colclough, and Mozart’s The Magic Flute...

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Wounded Warrior Project has 42 known supporters, including Alec Baldwin, Alan Cumming, and Gary Sinise

Areas of work Veteran/Service Member Support Read more about Wounded Warrior Project's work and celebrity supporters. Related articles Oprah Tops Celebrity Philanthropy A-ListGoldberg, Keitel Trading for CharityTony Soprano - Still Making His Mark From Beyond The GraveTony Soprano's Clothes Make A Killing For CharityStars Become Brokers For Bgc Charity Day

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The Sopranos, which ran on HBO from 1999-2007, is one of the most influential and popular television series of all time. Almost two decades after its final episode aired, the crime drama set in New Jersey which followed the life and times of mob boss Tony Soprano is just as well-known and loved now. It features some of the best scripts, costume design, and acting performances seen on network TV, and many shows produced today can only hope to live up to its success.

In a cast of incredibly well-written and engaging characters, Furio Giunta is widely hailed as one of the best. He is certainly an audience favorite, with his well-mannered temperament, old-school charm, and suave style serving as a soothing departure from the macho and overly assertive attitudes of Tony and the other New Jersey mob members. His abrupt disappearance from the show comes at the end of...

This article only showcases the kills seen on-screen in The Sopranos.

The Sopranos is the crime drama HBO series that changed television. The Sopranos never had a dull moment due to the unique characters all wrapped up in the rivalry of several mob families. Violence, murder, and crime are guaranteed when it comes to the mafia. In The Sopranos, there were 62 on-screen deaths within its six seasons.

In The Sopranos, every main character got their hands dirty one way or another and showed the audience what it was like to be in the mob. Some kills were orders given by their superiors to be followed. Other kills demonstrate a character's ruthlessness. Of the many deaths within The Sopranos, many characters stood out with higher on-screen kills than others.

Janice Soprano Has a Modest Amount of Kills but Her On-Screen Kill Is Ruthless Killcount: 1

In The Sopranos, the Soprano's family...

Over the course of six seasons, The Sopranos introduced dozens of compelling characters and wove them into countless dramatic storylines. While Tony Soprano was undoubtedly the main focus throughout the series, in showing both his criminal and family life, the writers introduced audiences to a host of gangsters and Soprano family members with their own motivations and quirks. For many viewers, the mobsters that worked with or against Tony were probably the most interesting but, in terms of the show's themes, it was actually his children that were the more important characters.

A.J. and Meadow certainly aren't the most exciting members of the Soprano family. Indeed, some fans have expressed frustration and disappointment at A.J.'s character arc in particular, finding him alternatively boring and annoying. Meanwhile, Meadow Soprano generally received less screen time after she left for college, becoming a secondary character. Despite these points, A.J.

The Sopranos is a prestige TV show that completely changed what a one-hour crime drama could be. The show built its story around deep, complicated characters who were all involved with the mafia. The Soprano family was the focal point, but the series also dealt with the intricacies of the New Jersey Dimeo crime family. Throughout The Sopranos, violence and fighting were big themes.

While there is no shortage of fighting in The Sopranos, certain fight scenes altered the course of the show and stuck out more than others. Some fight scenes are so intense that the audience wants to close their eyes, even though it's impossible to look away. Each fight scene in The Sopranos expanded on the characters' violent tendencies.

Paulie and Christopher Try To Take Down a Russian Ex-Commando Season 3, Episode 11

In The Sopranos episode "Pine Barrens," Tony tasks Christopher and Paulie with a money pick-up on Silvio's behalf,...

Even after coming to an abrupt end in 2007, audiences still won't stop believing that "The Sopranos" is one of the best TV shows (if not the best TV show) ever made. The story of Tony Soprano's (James Gandolfini) struggles to serve as the heads of two very different families is still the standard that so many shows hope to match thanks to its incredible performances and writing (the kind that other series would kill to replicate). But which season of "The Sopranos" stands taller than the rest? Well, according to Rotten Tomatoes, there's one particular chapter in Tony's life of guns, gangsters, and gabagool that reigns triumphant and currently holds a perfect 100% critics score on the aggregator website.

Forget the divisive season 6 closer or season 4 (which shows the collapse of Tony's marriage), it's season 3 that, per Rt, walked away without a hitch. Riddled with dead bodies and characters making...

The Sopranos is highly regarded as the show that changed cable television. It changed the formula of shows by expanding characters and writing unique storylines wrapped around a mafia family. Tony Soprano led the Dimeo crime family but struggled with the existentialism of life while being the boss of a major crime organization.

As great as The Sopranos is, it wasn't perfect. Numerous plot holes, abandoned character arcs, and appearances went unexplained. Some things seemed to be added to a season of The Sopranos just to expand it. While The Sopranos is nearly flawless, it is packed with a handful of details that just don't make sense with the rest of the show's story.

Dons Don’t Wear Shorts, but Tony Soprano Did at a BBQ

Whenever Tony Soprano had a BBQ at his home or was on his infamous boat, he wore swimming trunks or shorts. It made total...

It's practically a mandate for any television series, comedy or drama, to feature a Christmas/holiday-themed episode. This was even the case for a show about organized crime in The Sopranos. As a show about a Christian, Italian-American family clinging on to tradition in an ever-changing world, Christmas is unexpectedly a cherished time for both Soprano families, the blood relatives, and the family made up of captains and soldiers. Considering that Tony Soprano (James Gandolfini), the imposing mafia boss who reluctantly looks after his ailing mental health, felt the weight of the world on his shoulders throughout each episode of David Chase's acclaimed drama, his stress would only be compounded during Christmastime in the Season 3 Episode, "To Save Us All From Satan's Power." Given the moniker "Stress-mas" by Dr. Jennifer Melfi (Lorraine Bracco), the festivities unearthed a troubling realization for Tony upon reflecting on the past involving remorse over...

The effect that HBO had on television is monumental in itself. The premium network that challenged the perception of creative expression in television helmed one of the most prestigious shows ever created for the small screen: The Sopranos. The series, in turn, not only revolutionized storytelling forever but also launched the second Golden Age of television since the first era ended in 1960.

The Sopranos [Credit: HBO]

The series creator, David Chase was helmed as one of the greatest innovative thinkers of the era despite his initial script idea about the mob crime drama being turned down by every major studio. HBO’s faith in the project also made the network a platform for prestige storytelling that proved that television could be just as complex, layered, and impactful as any movie.

The strange impact of The Sopranos ending The Sopranos [Credit: HBO]

Despite The Sopranos being hailed as one of the greatest television masterpieces, the...

Some of TV’s most unforgettable characters are the ones who know how to manipulate those around them.

Whether through charm, deception, or psychological games, they pull the strings and stay a step ahead, making everyone else dance to their tune.

These characters blur the line between hero and villain, creating their own reality and bending others to their will.

(Photograph by Macall Polay/HBO)

Manipulation isn’t just a tactic; it’s their weapon and what makes them so compelling.

Their ability to deceive, control, and outwit keeps us hooked — no matter how twisted their methods may be.

Here are 19 TV characters we think are true masters of manipulation.

Logan Roy — Succession (Macall Polay/HBO)

Logan Roy from Succession is the epitome of corporate manipulation. He uses his ruthless tactics to control his family and media empire.

Every conversation and every decision is a calculated move to maintain his power,...

The Sopranos stands at the precipice of a cultural anomaly: honored and celebrated as a television classic on one hand while criticized and derided for its controversial ending on the other. The HBO show set off a golden age of television unlike any other series before it and through its critically lauded storytelling, The Sopranos proved television could be just as prestigious as the cinematic format.

The Sopranos [Credit: HBO]

It was not simply the plot or the complex characters that made the HBO classic so revolutionary. Music, dialogue, and cinematography played a collective part in elevating the series to the peak of the television experience. A decade and a half after the show aired its incontrovertible finale, fans gather around as creator David Chase finally answers a long-gestating question.

The Sopranos Creator Explains the Show’s Ending The Sopranos Season 6 episode The Fleshy Part of the Thigh [Credit: HBO]

Contentious, divisive, disputed, criticized,...

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The Sopranos is considered one of the greatest television shows of all time, thanks to its mob-related content, award-winning performances, and intense drama. One minute the viewer was on the edge of their seat and the next minute they were laughing. Whether it was the unintentional comedy or the emotionally draining drama, The Sopranos delivered a great hour of television for over 7 years.

The series finale "Made In America" remains a divisive topic to this day due to its sudden black screen ending. At the very least, the ending worked in terms of talking points, especially since everyone is still discussing it 17 years after The Sopranos aired its final episode. Still, it's worth reminding fans of every character's possible fate at the end of the beloved series, especially the biggest question of all — who killed Tony Soprano? Much of the following information may be speculation,...

The Sopranos finale aired in June 2007 and divided longtime fans who continue to debate on the ambiguous ending. James Gandolfini made his final appearance as Tony Soprano in the episode, titled Made in America. Tony Soprano grew to become a popular character and fans were eager to see what happened to him in the series finale—whether he would face the consequences of his actions or live to pass on his legacy.

James Gandolfini and Lorraine Bracco in The Sopranos | Credits: HBO

However, fans were left with no definitive answer as the creator David Chase left an open ending for the series. Critics thought it was brilliant and deemed the episode as one of the greatest series finales of all time. Some fans were frustrated, but it didn’t stop them from drawing various interpretations and theories as to what happened to the Soprano crime family’s patriarch.

Chase has...

Long before Game of Thrones traumatized the world with the brutal, divisive, and merciless slashing of on-screen favorites every other episode, HBO began the trend with The Sopranos. The darkly humorous series took a gritty storyline about mob life in New Jersey and turned it into a rendition of whack-a-mole with its characters.

With time, creator David Chase became infamous for the ruthless cruelty with which he disposed of his own beloved creations. Meanwhile, the show became the epicenter of much controversy and debate with its non-committal deaths, pitiless betrayals, and one very scandalous ending.

But it was one episode in Season 2 of The Sopranos that started it all.

The Sopranos Blows Up With a Season 2 Death The Sopranos Season 2 finale Funhouse marks the death of Salvatore Bonpensiero (left) [Credit: HBO]

The Sopranos allowed David Chase, creator of the HBO crime drama, to play God over his own domain. Judging without bias...

The Sopranos may just be one of the most celebrated shows on earth. With its explosive plot, chaotically charged characters, blinding betrayals, and divisive ending, the HBO show easily ranks high among an elite group of shows fit for kings. However, despite the fancy ratings and the golden reviews, the behind-the-scenes account of the making of the show was most troubling.

The Sopranos [Credit: HBO]

The Sopranos was not the average HBO project. It marked the beginning of a revolution that radically changed the face of the television industry for the better. The mob crime drama not only dramatically altered the narrative structure of television projects but also had an impact on their tone, dialogue, cinematography, and grounded realism. Meanwhile, something else about the cast stood out in The Sopranos, too.

The Sopranos Cast Draws Inspiration from Real-Life Tony Sirico as Paulie in The Sopranos [Credit: HBO]

Considering the level of charisma, devotion, and...

The Sopranos was one of the best television shows made. It blended mob stories, brilliant character arcs and relatable familial struggles. In addition to fleshing out some of the most original characters, The Sopranos showcased some of the best writing on television. Michael Imperioli fits both categories, being one of the writers of The Sopranos and playing one of the most revered characters in the show, Christopher Moltisanti.

Every episode of The Sopranos tackles multiple characters while usually revolving around one theme. Michael Imperioli is credited with writing five episodes of The Sopranos, some of which are aptly ranked highly and acknowledged as pinnacle moments in the show. Imperioli captured the nature of the mob world, and his episodes fit into the show perfectly.

Christopher Columbus Day Shakes up the Dimeo Crime Family Season 4, Episode 3, "Christopher"

"Christopher" Reception

IMDb Score

7.8/10

Season 4 Rotten Tomatoes Critics Score

92%

Season 4 Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score...

The cultural impact of The Sopranos remains unparalleled to this day as the New Jersey mob and their daily shenanigans forever altered the course of television history. The ripple effect of the HBO show can be found in modern prestige shows like Mad Men, Breaking Bad, The Wire, and even Game of Thrones. But it’s the real-life mobsters who remain at the top of the list.

The Sopranos [Credit: HBO]

Taking a page out of fiction’s greatest mob stories, David Chase crafted a perfect story about the Italian-American Mafia based out of New Jersey. With James Gandolfini in the lead, the series introduced a golden age of television that left the audience wide-eyed with fascination and wonder.

But no amount of lessons from The Godfather and Scarface could prepare Chase and Gandolfini for what came next.

The Sopranos Gets a Life Lesson from a Real Gangster Tony Soprano hosts a...

While Sylvester Stallone’s Tulsa King continues to hit big numbers for Paramount, on the writing front, there have been some notable letdowns in contrast to its previous outing, and the ninth episode is no different. In the penultimate episode of Tulsa King season 2, Dwight momentarily contemplates killing Armand after the latter ends up stealing half a million from him.

Tulsa King | Credit: Paramount Plus

However, the mafioso decides against it, and reflecting on it, Armand’s actor Max Casella weighs his own theory on why Dwight chooses to be merciful.

Sylvester Stallone’s Dwight Is No Longer a Traditional Gangster Max Casella in Tulsa King | Credit: Paramount Plus

In season 2 so far, both Armand and Tyson were easily let off the hook, especially the former, who chose to steal from the dispensary. However, in a moment of introspection, instead of running off, he decides to turn the wheels and...

The Penguin comes to an end on HBO and Max on Sunday, Nov. 10. After watching one of the best gangster/mob stories we've seen in a long time, we know fans are going to be looking for something else to watch!

We've already watched The Batman, the film that inspired The Penguin, quite a few times. And, we also have a long time to wait until The Batman Part 2 hits theaters in 2026. Luckily, there are more than enough good crime shows for The Penguin fans to watch until The Batman Part 2.

And, we're also hearing some promising news about The Penguin season 2. We don't know for sure if the series is coming back for season 2, but there's some hope, according to a report from The Direct.

While we wait to find out the fate of The Penguin, let's get the list of crime shows to watch started with the best TV show of all time,...

Created by David Chase for HBO, The Sopranos has been one of the most prestigious shows ever created for television. Starring James Gandolfini, Michael Imperioli, Tony Sirico, and Edie Falco among others, the series not only embedded the viewers into the lives of the Soprano family but also made them invested in their day-to-day comings and goings like no other show did.

The Sopranos [Credit: HBO]

Without a basis for a mob drama and with only the Martin Scorsese movies as a reference point, The Sopranos quickly became a household favorite among the audiences of the new century. Amid the chatter of late-night television and the laugh tracks of countless sitcoms, The Sopranos hit a home run with its grounded and unique storyline.

The Sopranos Contains a Huge Meta Reference The Sopranos Season 4 Episode 10 – Christopher’s intervention “The Strong, Silent Type”[Credit: HBO]

The Sopranos might have redefined television drama, elevating the medium to...

The Sopranos has gone down in history as one of the greatest shows ever produced, and the final episode of series, "Made in America," is no different. The finale is believed to be one of the best and most polarizing episodes of television that ever aired. This is mostly due to the final scene of the show, which has been analyzed thoroughly by fans and critics alike as they tried to piece together what the ending might have implied about Tony Soprano's final fate.

The last time fans get to see the Soprano Crew is a bittersweet feeling. The war they had waged against Phil Leotardo's crime family had come to an end, but the reality is that the damage done to them was so severe that they may never truly recover. Understanding Tony's professional status, also helps contextualize what might have happened the last time fans got to see him on television.

The Sopranos, which ran on HBO from 1999-2007, is one of the most influential and popular television series of all time. Almost two decades after its final episode aired, the crime drama set in New Jersey which followed the life and times of mob boss Tony Soprano is just as well-known and loved now. It features some of the best scripts, costume design, and acting performances seen on network TV, and many shows produced today can only hope to live up to its success.

In a cast of incredibly well-written and engaging characters, Furio Guinta is widely hailed as one of the best. He is certainly an audience favorite, with his well-mannered temperament, old-school charm, and suave style serving as a soothing departure from the macho and overly assertive attitudes of Tony and the other New Jersey mob members. His abrupt disappearance from the show comes at the end of...

Lorraine Bracco, the actor who gave life to Dr. Jennifer Melfi in The Sopranos, has spoken against the show's controversial ending. Melfi is one of many characters who are part of the life of mobster Tony Soprano. While she begins as his therapist, their relationship grows outside their continuous sessions where Melfi analyzes and judges the ethically questionable Mafia leader.

Bracco went on Jessica Shaw's show, The Spotlight with Jessica Shaw, on SiriusXM and shared why she still isn't happy with the way the show ended. She blames showrunner David Chase for making the controversial decision to leave things open between Tony and Jennifer, but she also says that perhaps what we saw on the show wasn't the last time they met each other. While noting that she never actually found out what happened next between them, Bracco said:

Oh, I just think, honestly, I think they bumped into...

Starring James Gandolfini, The Sopranos has been one of the most iconic TV series. Following the life of an Italian-American mafia boss balancing his criminal empire and family struggles, the show captivated millions and became a cultural phenomenon.

Tony Soprano | Credit: HBO

In a memorable instance, the show’s popularity became so overwhelming that an open casting call drew a massive 13,000 people, forcing the police to intervene due to the sheer size of the crowd.

David Chase Recalled the Overwhelming Response to The Sopranos Open Casting Call

As The Sopranos celebrates its 25th anniversary marks its 25th anniversary, David Chase has shared new insights into the show’s creation in Wise Guy: David Chase and The Sopranos, revealing intriguing stories about the show and its impact.

The Sopranos | Credit: HBO

The show’s creator reflected on one such incident in his interview with Empire while discussing the show’s influence on the Italian-American community,...

I was skeptical about Tulsa King when it came out in 2022. The series seemed like the ultimate dad television show, featuring a weathered ’80s superstar that children’s grandparents talk about. From Rambo to Stop! Or My Mom Will Shoot, Stallone’s films made over a billion dollars in the ’80s without today’s special effects.

Stallone’s dive into streaming television paid off handsomely. The first season was well received. Tulsa King, created by the minds behind Yellowstone and a former head writer of The Sopranos, does a masterful job of toggling between visceral violence and ominous black comedy.

In short, Tulsa King remains the brass-knuckles-bruising comedy we have come to love despite its considerable flaws.

L-r: Sylvester Stallone as Dwight “The General” Manfredi and Garrett Hedlund as Mitch Keller of the Paramount+ original series Tulsa King. Photo Credit: Brian Douglas/Paramount+. 2024 Viacom International Inc. All Rights Reserved. RELATEDThe...