Talking Sopranos

"Guy Walks Into a Psychiatrist’s Office"

Michael and Steve take on the Season Two premiere. They discuss how the show is getting bigger, with more characters, more plot twists and more downright evil for Tony to deal with.

"Do Not Resuscitate"

In this episode Bobby Bacala makes his first appearance. Steve talks about his first day on set and how Michael may, or may not, have high-hatted him.

"Toodle-Fucking-Oo"

Evil has arrived and its name is Richie Aprile. In this episode Michael and Steve get into the dramatic appearance of this season’s villain and Meadow’s insane house party. Watch out Beansie, the car is in high gear and headed for you.

"Commendatori"

Michael, Steve and the infamous fat suit take on this week’s episode of the Sopranos. This one was shot in Italy and Tony Sirico, aka Paulie Walnuts, had a few issues dealing with the people, the food and the bathrooms. Michael tells the story of how he was completely hung over and almost missed the plane and did David Chase actually get robbed in Naples?

"Big Girls Don’t Cry" with guest Terry Winter

Writer, producer, Emmy-winner and Oscar-nominee Terry Winter joins Michael and Steve for this exciting episode. Terry shares how he came up with many of the ideas for the show and what might have happened to the Russian.

"The Happy Wanderer" with guest Lorraine Bracco

Lorraine Bracco (Dr. Melfi) joins Michael and Steve for a very special Talking Sopranos episode. She reveals how David Chase originally wanted her to play Carmela, but she said it was Melfi or nothing. She also talks about how she was absolutely blown away when she first saw The Sopranos pilot, and shares some crazy stories about James Gandolfini off-camera.

"D-Girl"

This was a big one for Christopher who has to decide if he wants to make his mark in Hollywood or with the Soprano crew. Big Pussy is on his way out courtesy of the feds and Tony is caught in the middle. It’s Hollywood on one end, and a rat on the other in this episode of Talking Sopranos.

"Full Leather Jacket" with guest Allen Coulter

Sopranos director and producer Allen Coulter joins Michael and Steve and shares how his life was changed the day he met David Chase. He also talks about the challenges of working with James Gandolfini and the craziness of directing the one and only Tony Sirico.

"From Where to Eternity"

Michael and Steve take on one of the most memorable episodes of the Sopranos ever -- which Michael actually wrote.

"Bust Out" with guest John Ventimiglia

Michael and Steve are joined by John Ventimiglia (Artie Bucco), one of the Soprano’s most lovable characters. John shares some stories about how he originally read for the role of Tony Soprano and his inspiration for the character of Artie.

"House Arrest" with guest Louis Lombardi

Louie Lombardi (Agent Skip Lipari) joins Michael and Steve. This is truly a family affair as Louie talks about growing up with Vinny Pastore, and how they ended up on the same show, playing opposite each other.

"Knight In White Satin Armor" with guest David Proval

The evil Richie Aprile (David Proval) joins Michael and Steve for this episode. David is an emotional guest who talks about his incredible career and how he got the gig on the Sopranos. He also shares an amazing story about his first audition with James Gandolfini, and how he used his anger and rage at the entertainment industry to create Richie’s Aprile’s twisted character.

"Funhouse" with guest Vinny Pastore

In the season two finale Michael and Steve welcome the one and only “Big Pussy”, Vinny Pastore. He was a killer, a rat, a gangster and audiences loved him.

“Mr Ruggerio’s Neighborhood” with guest Kathrine Narducci

Kathrine Narducci (Charmaine Bucco) joins Michael and Steve for the Talking Sopranos Season 3 premiere. The Feds are front and center and Tony has to watch what he says now that the basement is wired for sound.

“Proshai Livushka” with guest Jason Cerbone

Michael and Steve welcome Jason Cerbone (Jackie Aprile Jr). Jason talks about what it was like to join the cast of the show and how he was absolutely in awe of the talent on set.

“Fortunate Son” with guest Aida Turturro

Aida Turturro (Janice Soprano) joins Michael and Steve with some hilarious stories to share. Aida chats about her early days with James Gandolfini and how even back then Aida knew he was destined for greatness.

“Employee of the Month” with guests Robin Green and Mitchell Burgess

Emmy-award winning writers Robin Green and Mitchell Burgess join Michael and Steve for this episode. This is a dramatic, brutal and emotional episode that generated a lot of controversy when it debuted.

“Another Toothpick”

One of Michael’s favorite episodes, and a big one for Steve. It’s the first time Bobby Bacala was featured as a main character. Michael Imperioli and Steve Schirripa discuss the episode “Another Toothpick” from season three of The Sopranos.

"University” with guest Ariel Kiley

Ariel Kiley, who plays the Bada Bing dancer Tracee, joins the podcast. In this compelling interview, Ariel talks about how working on the Sopranos was actually her first acting job, how she was able to play such a difficult role, and the advice she got from James Gandolfini that changed her life.

“Second Opinion” with guest Phil Abraham

Emmy-award winning cinematographer Phil Abraham joins Michael and Steve for another exciting episode of Talking Sopranos. Phil worked on all six seasons of the Sopranos and knows all the stories.

“He Is Risen” with guest Martin Bruestle

Emmy-award winner Martin Bruestle joins the podcast. Martin was a producer on the show, head of all post-production and responsible for selecting much of the show’s indelible soundtrack.

"The Telltale Moozadell"

This is the second of five episodes Michael wrote. He tells us where the title came from, the story behind the Lollipop Lounge and how he came up with many of his ideas. This one also includes a short scene with an actress who would go on to become Lady Gaga.

“To Save Us All From Satan’s Power”

This is the Christmas episode …Sopranos style. Bobby wants nothing to do with Kris Kringle, Sil is having nightmares about Pussy, and the kids tell Santa to go f**k himself.

“Pine Barrens” with guest Steve Buscemi

It’s Pine Barrens with guest Steve Buscemi....need I say more? This episode is one of the greatest hours in the history of television. Michael and Steve kick things off with an interview with Steve Buscemi who directed the episode and was nominated for an Emmy for his work.

“For All Debts Public and Private” with guest Federico Castelluccio

Season Four kicks off with guest Federico Castelluccio (Furio Giunta). Federico shares a great story about his first day on set and the infamous brothel scene.

“No-Show”

MIchael and Steve discuss "No-Show." In this episode, the stakes are getting higher and the show is getting darker -- with Christopher’s drug use, Adrianna's new relationship, Jackie’s murder, and, of course, Ralphie.

“Christopher” with guest Ray Abruzzo

Michael and Steve are joined by their good friend Ray Abruzzo (Little Carmine). They have a blast talking about old times and all the laughs they've had on the Sopranos set.

“The Weight” with guest Dominic Chianese

On this episode, Michael Imperioli and Steve Schirripa welcome Dominic Chianese (Uncle Junior). In this rare and revealing interview Dominic talks about getting the role on the Sopranos and how it completely changed his life.

"Pie-O-My” with guests Lola Glaudini and Matt Servitto

It's FBI day on Talking Sopranos. Michael and Steve welcome Lola Glaudini (Agent Ciccerone) and Matt Servitto (Agent Harris). This special episode features two of the most memorable and law-abiding characters from the series.

“Everybody Hurts” with guest Jack Bender

Emmy-award winning director Jack Bender joins Michael and Steve for this episode. Jack directed four Sopranos episodes including “Another Toothpick,” which features some of Steve’s most difficult and demanding scenes.

“Watching Too Much Television”

In this episode, Michael and Steve discuss Furio’s intentions, what Adriana is up to, and Tony’s pattern of jealous behavior.

“Mergers and Acquisitions”

This week on Talking Sopranos it’s another double header. Michael and Steve welcome Angelo Massagli (Bobby Baccalieri III) and Arthur J. Nascarella (Carlo Gervasi) to the show.

"Whoever Did This” with guests Al Sapienza and Dan Grimaldi

Michael and Steve welcome Al Sapienza (Mikey Palmice) and Dan Grimaldi (Philly and Patsy Parisi). Then they discuss the episode, which was a big one for Ralphie.

“The Strong, Silent Type” with guests Alla Kliouka and Robert Funaro

This week Michael and Steve welcome both Alla Kliouka (Svetlana Kirilenko) and Robert Funaro (Eugene Pontecorvo) to the show.

“Calling All Cars” with guest Peter Riegert

Peter Riegert (Assemblyman Zellman) joins Michael and Steve for this episode of Talking Sopranos. Peter shares some memorable stories about working with James Gandolfini and how in one specific scene he supported him in a way most actors would not.

“Eloise”

In this week’s episode Michael and Steve talk about how Tony and Carmela’s marriage is starting to fall apart.

“Whitecaps” with guest Frankie Valli

Michael Imperioli and Steve Schirripa discuss the season four finale episode “Whitecaps”.

"Two Tonys" with guest Will Janowitz

Michael Imperioli and Steve Schirripa discuss the season five premiere episode “Two Tonys” with guest Will Janowitz.

"Rat Pack" with guests Oksana Lada and Carl Capotorto

Oksana Lada (Irina Peltsin) and Carl Capotorto (Little Paulie Germani) join Michael and Steve on this episode of Talking Sopranos. Carl discusses the first time he met Tony Sirico and how Tony thought Carl was stealing his look.

"Where's Johnny?" with guests Matt Del Negro and Chris Caldovino

Michael Imperioli and Steve Schirripa welcome two more guests: Matt Del Negro (Brian Cammarata) and Chris Caldovino (Billy Leotardo). Matt kicks things off with a really interesting story about how Georgianne Walken caused him to lose one job, but got him the role of a lifetime on the Sopranos. Then Chris Caldovino talks about how he was hired for the role of Billy Leotardo.

"All Happy Families" with guest Todd A. Kessler

On this episode of Talking Sopranos, Michael and Steve welcome Todd A. Kessler (writer/producer) to the podcast. Todd wrote 4 episodes of the Sopranos, and produced 20 more. Todd talked about his exit from The Sopranos and what James Gandolfini told him the night he left the show.

"Irregular Around the Margins" with guest Maureen Van Zandt

Michael and Steve welcome Maureen Van Zandt (Gabriella Dante) to the podcast. Maureen talks about how Georgianne Walken asked her to audition for the part of her real-life husband’s on-screen wife, Gabriella.

"Sentimental Education" with guests Paul Schulze and Jason Minter

Michael and Steve are joined by Paul Schulze (Father Phil Intintola) and Jason Minter (Sopranos locations manager and David Chase’s personal assistant). Paul talks about how he originally auditioned for the role of Mikey Palmice, but David Chase asked him to read for Father Phil. Then Jason Minter joins the podcast.

"In Camelot" with guest Steven Van Zandt

Steven Van Zandt joins Michael and Steve on this special episode of Talking Sopranos. Steven talks about how David Chase cast him as Tony Soprano but HBO nixed the whole idea as they wanted someone with more on-screen experience.

"Marco Polo" with guests Leslie Rae Bega and Joe Lisi

Michael and Steve take a look at Season 5, episode 8 “Marco Polo” written by Michael. They welcome guests Leslie Rae Bega (Valentina La Paz) and Joe Lisi (Dick Barone). Leslie shares how she got the role of Valentina. After that, Joe talks about how he went from real NYPD captain to TV and film actor.

"Unidentified Black Males"

This week Michael and Steve break down another memorable Sopranos episode. Listeners will be shocked when they hear all the inside info on this one.

"Cold Cuts" with guests Richard Portnow and Suzanne Shepherd

Michael and Steve welcome Richard Portnow (Attorney Melvoin) and Suzanne Shepherd (Mary DeAngelis). First up, Richard Portnow talks about his character who was originally cast for one episode, but writers kept him on as a recurring character. Then Suzanne Shepherd joins the show, to discuss playing Carmela’s mother on The Sopranos.

"The Test Dream" with guest Matthew Weiner

Michael and Steve welcome Sopranos producer and award-winning Mad Men writer, Matthew Weiner. This is a candid and emotional interview where Matt talks about his difficult early days, working with David Chase and the passing of James Gandolfini.

"Long Term Parking" with guests Peter Bogdanovich and Marianne Leone

Michael Imperioli and Steve Schirripa welcome Oscar nominated director Peter Bogdanovich (Dr. Elliot Kupferberg) and Marianne Leone (Joanne Moltisanti) to the podcast.

"All Due Respect" with guest Toni Kalem

Michael and Steve are joined by Toni Kalem (Angie Bonpensiero) for the season 5 finale. During the interview Michael and Steve are surprised to find out that Toni was a finalist to play the role of Carmela.

"Members Only" with guest Dania Ramirez

Michael and Steve welcome Dania Ramirez to the podcast. She appeared in five episodes of the Sopranos as Blanca Selgado. She talks about how nervous she was her first day on set and how James Gandolfini calmed her down.

"Join the Club"

Michael and Steve break down what could be one of the most complicated episodes of the entire series. Is Tony Soprano really Kevin Finnerty? The entire episode is one long dream…or is it?

"Mayham" with guests Vanessa Ferlito and Bob Shaw

Michael and Steve are joined by Vanessa Ferlito (Tina Francesco) and Bob Shaw (Sopranos Production Designer) on this episode.

"The Fleshy Part of the Thigh" with guest Lou Mustillo

Michael and Steve welcome Lou Mustillo (Sal “The Gardener” Vitro) to the podcast. Lou was only in four episodes, but he was definitely a memorable character.

"Mr. & Mrs. John Sacrimoni Request" with William DeMeo and Joe Maruzzo

Michael and Steve welcome William DeMeo (Jason Molinaro) and Joe Maruzzo (Joey Peeps). Will talks about how he always dreamed of joining the Sopranos, but when he got his big chance, he had to turn it down because he was shooting Analyze This.

"Live Free or Die" with guests Saundra Santiago and Bob LuPone

In this episode, Michael and Steve welcome Saundra Santiago (Jeannie and Joan Cusamano) and Bob LuPone (Dr. Bruce Cusamano). First, Saundra talks about how she was originally brought in to read for the role of Carmela. Then Bob LuPone talks about his inspiration for playing Dr. Bruce Cusamano and what it was like to work with James Gandolfini.

"Luxury Lounge" with guest Robert Patrick

This week Robert Patrick (David Scatino) joins Michael and Steve for another episode of Talking Sopranos. He shares behind-the-scenes stories about working with James Gandolfini and their scenes together. Then Michael and Steve break down this week’s episode which is one of the most fun of the entire series. Michael also reveals who was the one who punched Lauren Bacall.

"Johnny Cakes" with guest Julianna Margulies

Julianna Margulies (Julianna Skiff) joins Michael and Steve on the podcast. Julianna talks about her life, her career and what she learned from Michael on the Sopranos. Then Michael and Steve get into this week’s controversial episode. The guys have some great inside info to share, and breakdown stand-out performances by Joe Gannascoli and Robert Iler.

"The Ride" with guest Tim Daly

Michael and Steve welcome Tim Daly (J.T.Dolan) to the podcast. Tim talks about his relationship with David Chase and how he ended up with the part of J.T. This might be Michael’s favorite overall, and he shares how he got through the extremely emotional scenes. Steve also had a prominent role in this one and he talks about his scene with Tony Sirico.

"Moe n' Joe" with guest Emily Wickersham and Pete Busossi

This week Michael Imperioli and Steve Schirripa welcome Emily Wickersham (Rhiannon Flammer) and Pete Busossi (Sopranos Stunt Coordinator) to the Talking Sopranos podcast.

"Cold Stones" with guests Cara Buono and Alan Taylor

Michael and Steve welcome Cara Buono (Kelli Moltisanti) and Alan Taylor (Sopranos director) to the podcast. Cara shares a great story about how Edie Falco welcomed her to the set. Then Alan Taylor joins the show. Alan not only directed nine episodes of the Sopranos but also The Many Saints of Newark.

"Kaisha" with guest Steve Van Zandt

Michael and Steve take on the Season 6A finale! Another fantastic episode with lots to discuss. This was a huge episode and a fan favorite.

"Sopranos Home Movie" with guest Jamie-Lynn Sigler

We’re headed into the final season and Michael and Steve are kicking things off with a bang! Talking Sopranos welcomes Jamie-Lynn Sigler back to the podcast. This was a huge episode for Steve as he breaks down the big fight between Bobby and Tony.

"Stage 5" with guest John Ventimiglia

Michael and Steve welcome John Ventimiglia (Artie Bucco) back to the podcast. John talks about what it was like going into that final season and his favorite memories from his time on the show.

"Remember When" with guest Vincent Pastore

Michael and Steve welcome the one and only Vincent Pastore (Salvatore "Big Pussy" Bonpensiero) back to the podcast. Vinny enthusiastically shares his favorite memories from the show and reveals his theory on why David Chase decided to kill his character.

"Chasing It" with guest Robert Iler

Michael and Steve welcome Robert Iler (AJ Soprano) back to the podcast. He talks about his time on the show and his lifelong friendship with his on-screen sister Jamie-Lynn Sigler.

"Walk Like a Man" with guest Terry Winter

Michael and Steve are joined by Sopranos writer/producer and Academy Award nominee Terry Winter. In this interview he talks about what it was like going into that final season, and how the writers were trying to wrap things up.

"Kennedy and Heidi" with guest Lorraine Bracco

Michael and Steve welcome Lorraine Bracco (Dr Melfi) back to the podcast. Lorraine was a huge part of the show and returns to discuss her thoughts about the ending. She also shares stories about David Chase and her thoughts on Tony’s fate.

"The Second Coming" with guest Aida Turturro

Aida Turturro (Janice Soprano) joins Michael and Steve for this exciting episode of Talking Sopranos. Aida shares her best and worst memories about being part of the show, as well as some intimate stories about working with James Gandolfini. She also talks about what it was like going into that final season and her thoughts about the finale.

"The Blue Comet" with guest Steve Van Zandt

Michael and Steve welcome Steven Van Zandt (Silvio Dante) back to the podcast. Steven shares his feelings about the final season and his thoughts about Tony’s ultimate fate. This is also Steve’s last episode and he shares inside info about his final scene.

"Made in America" with guest David Chase

What better guest than David Chase to wrap up this iconic series? Michael and Steve ask David a whole list of questions that have come during the podcast. Is there really anything to the Rhiannon theory? Did Ralphie kill Pie-O-My? Did Tony Soprano survive? It’s all in this final episode.

The Many Saints of Newark Special

After years of anticipation The Many Saints of Newark was released. Michael and Steve talk to Alessandro Nivola (Dickie Moltisanti), Michael Gandolfini (Anthony Soprano), Corey Stoll (Junior Soprano), John Magaro (Silvio Dante), Leslie Odom Jr (Harold McBrayer) and the series and film’s creator David Chase.