Sarah Shahi Reflects on Memorable Scene with James Gandolfini in ‘The Sopranos’

Actress Sarah Shahi recently opened up about her experience working with James Gandolfini during a notable scene in the famous TV show, ‘The Sopranos’. On the ‘Bossticks’ podcast, Shahi described her kiss with the ‘Sopranos’ star as one of the best she has ever had.

Shahi shared her initial doubts about becoming attracted to Gandolfini, known for his role as Tony Soprano, noting his age and physical appearance. “I remember thinking, ‘How am I going to be turned on by this 47-year-old large, balding man?'” she explained, later asserting, “Oh boy, did it work for me!”

She elaborated on the details of the intimate scene, revealing that the actors consumed mushrooms during filming. Gandolfini requested props to enhance their realistic portrayal, adhering to his method acting approach. Dehydrated mushrooms with added spices were used to provoke a reaction.

“Oh boy, did it work for me!” — Sarah Shahi

The scene involved Shahi sitting on Gandolfini’s lap and kissing him, with the pair continuing to make out even after the director yelled “cut”. They filmed the scene three or four times, and Shahi remarked on their continued embrace each time filming paused.

Shahi played Sonya Aragon, a stripper and young college student, who was also the mistress of Christopher Moltisanti in the sixth season of ‘The Sopranos’ in 2007. Gandolfini, celebrated for his complex character portrayal, left a lasting impression on Shahi.

James Gandolfini passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack on June 19, 2013, during a vacation in Rome, Italy. He was 51 years old.