James Gandolfini: ‘Tony Soprano’ Actor Suffers Fatal Heart Attack Attending Film Festival in Italy

James Gandolfini, known for his iconic role as ‘Tony Soprano’ on the classic HBO series, “The Sopranos,” died Wednesday in Italy, reports TMZ.

He was 51 years old.

According to various media reports, Gandolfini was attending the 59th Taormina Film Festival in Sicily.

He reportedly died of a heart attack.

Though the amazing Gandolfini was in a string of successful movies, including “Get Shorty” and “The Mexican,” he became a household name for his portrayal of larger-than-life crime boss Tony Soprano, winning three Emmy Awards for his rich portrayal over 6 seasons.

See a gripping scene between he and TV wife Carmela Soprano, played brilliantly by Edie Falco below (warning: graphic language):

RIP James Gandolfini, one of the nicest guys I’ve ever met—
John McCain (@SenJohnMcCain) June 20, 2013

NO. Not James Gandolfini. He was in my top 5 favorite actors EVER. :(—
Kristin Chenoweth (@KChenoweth) June 20, 2013

.@HBO: James Gandolfini Was a ‘Special Man’ and a ‘Great Talent’ j.mp/1auHF3s—
Hollywood Reporter (@THR) June 20, 2013

RT @christytanner: James Gandolfini was quite possibly the best actor ever on TV. Trying to think who else comes close …—
Brian Stelter (@brianstelter) June 20, 2013

Why’d you delete this, coward? RT @realDonaldTrump: If Obamacare wasn’t enacted, James Gandolfini would still be with us. FACT.” #p2—
April (@ReignOfApril) June 20, 2013

James Gandolfini made Broadway debut ’92 revival of “A Streetcar Named Desire” w/Jessica Lange and Alec Baldwin. One of the greats.—
Actors Equity (@ActorsEquity) June 20, 2013

So sad. RIP James Gandolfini. One of the best actors of our generation.—
Guitar Guy (@TheBrianHaner) June 20, 2013