REPORT: ‘Sopranos’ star James Gandolfini dies suddenly in Rome at age 51. HBO confirms the actor’s death. James Gandolfini won three Emmy awards for his portrayal of Tony Soprano on “The Sopranos.” ABC is reporting he may have suffered a heart attack while vacationing in Rome. Developing. Stay tuned for updates.

HBO issued the following statement: ”We’re all in shock and feeling immeasurable sadness at the loss of a beloved member of our family. He was special man, a great talent, but more importantly a gentle and loving person who treated everyone no matter their title or position with equal respect. He touched so many of us over the years with his humor, his warmth and his humility. Our hearts go out to his wife and children during this terrible time. He will be deeply missed by all of us.” Gandolfini was set to topline a new limited series for HBO, Criminal Justice, one of several projects he had in the works.

James Gandolfini was in Rome on holiday ahead of the Taormina Film Festival in Sicily. He leaves behind a wife and two children.

This was cross-posted from The Hinterland Gazette.