When it was announced that The Sopranos would be getting a prequel, the reactions were mixed. The show is still adored and talked about, years after its ending (we've even made a list of its best episodes this month), and although fans of the beloved show obviously want more Sopranos, prequels often tend towards the disappointing and then cash-in. It became more worrying when it was announced that the show would follow a young Tony Soprano. Who could fill the shoes of the late James Gandolfini? Not only would it be tough to find a lookalike, but to capture the character that brought him two Emmys and a Golden Globe would be near impossible.
Today they've definitely found a lookalike. Michael Gandolfini, James' son, will play the young Tony Soprano in The Many Saints of Newark. Gandolfini (Jr.) told Variety that "it’s a profound honor to continue my dad’s legacy while stepping into the shoes of a young Tony Soprano.” Talk about shoes to fill. He continued: “I’m thrilled that I am going to have the opportunity to work with David Chase and the incredible company of talent he has assembled for The Many Saints of Newark.” We shall see.