James Gandolfini, better known to many as Tony Soprano on "The Sopranos," has died at the age of 51, HBO confirmed to NBC News.
Gandolfini suffered a possible heart attack or stroke while in Italy, where he was attending the Taormina Film Festival, HBO confirmed to E! on Wednesday.
"We're all in shock and feeling immeasurable sadness at the loss of a beloved member of our family," HBO said in a statement. "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."
Gandolfini most recently appeared in the movies "The Incredible Burt Wonderstone" and "Zero Dark Thirty."
He is survived by his wife, Deborah Lin, and a son from a previous marriage.
Check back for more on this breaking news story.
Photo Credit: AP