WISE GUY David Chase and The Sopranos

A New Jersey native and successful TV writer, David Chase decides to pen a script inspired by his mother and the “wise guys” of his youth. After finding a home at HBO, Chase begins casting for a pilot about a mobster who seeks therapy. With James Gandolfini, Edie Falco, and Lorraine Bracco in place, The Sopranos debuts to rave reviews and becomes a water-cooler sensation.

With The Sopranos a hit, Chase and his writers discuss drawing on their personal experiences and the challenges of balancing often violent subject matter with dark comedy. After Gandolfini’s untimely death, the cast and crew share memories of his generosity as well as his struggles with the spotlight. Years after the series ends, Chase reflects on its controversial finale.