James Gandolfini, the actor best known for his role portraying Tony Soprano on HBO’s popular series ‘The Soprano’s’ has sadly passed away a the age of 51.

[Sidebar: I used to love me some Tony Soprano… for whatever reason, he was sexy as hail to me.]

For six seasons, Gandolfini gave fans his version of a ‘BAWSE’ in the landmark HBO drama, a performance that will forever be cherished as one of television’s best.

While Gandolfini was much more than Tony Soprano, one of many acting roles he’s portrayed over the years, he will forever be remembered as that loveable mob boss… a murderous villain, yet a damaged, mundane, suburban husband and father whose ‘mommy issues’ were revealed in therapy.

That show was so much better than the reality junk we have to deal with today… but I digress!

Details about Gandolfini’s death + videos below…

VIDEO: The Soprano’s Intro + Theme Song…According to People Magazine, the three-time Emmy-winning actor who played mob boss Tony Soprano on HBO’s hit series The Sopranos, died on Wednesday in Italy at age 51.

The actor suffered a possible heart attack while traveling in Rome, a rep for HBO says. Gandolfini had been scheduled to take part in the Taormina Film Fest in Sicily.

HBO released the following statement regarding the star:

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 is survived by his wife Deborah Lin, their 8-month-old daughter Liliana, and son Michael, 13, from a previous marriage.

Were you a ‘Soprano’s’ fan? What were some of your favorite moments?

R.I.P. James Gandolfini (September 18, 1961 – June 19, 2013)

?VIDEO: Larry King Speaks on James Gandolfini’s Death…