In a new book about the history of HBO, an anecdote about "Sopranos" star James Gandolfini casts the late actor in a particularly generous light. According to "Tinderbox: HBO's Ruthless Pursuit of New Frontiers," Gandolfini once gave $33,000 to each of his 16 co-stars on the show as a show of his gratitude for being patient after a contract dispute had placed the show in jeopardy.
The story unfolds after "The Sopranos" had already established itself as a television phenomenon, following the airing of its third season. At this time, Gandolfini's salary was $5 million for the third season and was doubled to $10 million for the fourth season. However, the actor sought even more money, leading to negotiations that spiraled into a legal battle.
The negotiations deteriorated to the point where Gandolfini filed a lawsuit against HBO. The network retaliated with a counter-suit, freezing production on the show and halting earnings for the entire cast. Gandolfini's demand reached a staggering $20 million per season for future seasons, which put the entire production at risk.
According to former HBO executive Chris Albrecht, Gandolfini and HBO were at a standstill, which threatened the fourth season's production. This situation could have jeopardized the jobs of the cast and crew, prompting Gandolfini to eventually accept HBO's offer of $13 million per season, equating to a cool million per episode.
Once Gandolfini signed his new contract, he graciously called each of his 16 co-stars into his dressing room. He handed each of them a check for $33,000, totaling an impressive $528,000. His co-star, Steve Schirripa, who played Bobby Bacala, remarked on Gandolfini's generosity, saying, "As good of an actor as he was, he was a better guy. A generous guy. The guy gave us $33,000 each – 16 people …In Season 4 he called every one of the regular cast members and gave us a check. He said, 'Thanks for sticking by me.' It's like buying 16 people a car."
"The Sopranos" went on to achieve even greater heights of popularity and critical acclaim, concluding its run after six successful seasons in 2007. Tragically, James Gandolfini passed away in 2013 at the age of 51, but his legacy of generosity and kindness remains etched in the memories of his co-stars and fans alike.
