Yes. James Gandolfini was Italian, as a matter of fact, and he grew up in New Jersey near The Sopranos setting. His father was born in Italy and his mother—-while born in the U.S.—grew up in Naples, Italy. His parents Gandolfini's parents were devout Catholics who spoke Italian at home.

The role earned Gandolfini a Golden Globe for best actor in a television series, several Screen Actors Guild awards, and three Emmys for outstanding lead actor in a drama series. Gandolfini died in Rome on June 19, 2013, after suffering a heart attack. He was 51.

Gandolfini achieved international fame for his portrayal of the lead character in the crime drama “The Sopranos”. Upon his death, his net worth was estimated at $70 million and he left behind two children. His will, and the resulting tax implications, received a vast amount of publicity, most of it negative.

Gandolfini was born on September 18, 1961 in Westwood, New Jersey. He was of Italian ancestry. He was raised in New Jersey.