Mark Kamine, former locations manager on HBO's "The Sopranos," has released a book sharing insights into James Gandolfini's behavior on set and personal struggles. "Locations: Lessons Learned from My Life On Set with 'The Sopranos' and in the Film Industry" delves into Gandolfini's issues with addiction and discomfort with fame, affecting his behavior from season five onwards.

In Kamine's account, Gandolfini managed well until season five, where his addiction and discomfort with fame started influencing each other. From then on, the actor portraying Tony Soprano became progressively less dependable.

Memory Lapses and Personal Struggles

Kamine points to the episode "Pie-O-My" in season 4 as a turning point. After the shoot, Gandolfini and crew members engaged in horse betting and visits to Atlantic City. Kamine was once invited to join one night, but he declined. The following day, Gandolfini had difficulty getting up.

When Gandolfini eventually arrived four hours behind schedule, he faced challenges with his lines, expressing frustration and needing multiple attempts. Kamine observed that Gandolfini appeared apologetic and in a bad mood, which was his typical reaction when he made mistakes.

The book recounts a moment when Gandolfini forgot the homeowner of the Sopranos' house, despite being in the house and talking with the homeowner multiple times. Kamine describes Ganfolhini as both sheepish and churlish when facing struggles.

Kamine asserts that Gandolfini's behavior significantly impacted co-star Edie Falco, who played Carmela Soprano. While Falco was always prepared and in character, Gandolfini struggled, often arriving not fully in character and relying on the script supervisor.

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According to Kamine, HBO and Sopranos creator David Chase tolerated Gandolfini's issues due to his star status. However, HBO introduced a clause holding him responsible for shoot-day costs in case of work delays due to excessive consumption.

Similar Accounts and Gandolfini's Disappearances

This is not the first time Gandolfini's on-set challenges have been discussed. Other accounts in James Andrew Miller's book "Tinderbox" and a GQ article after Gandolfini's death in 2013 also touched on disruptive disappearances and production pauses.

Miller's book recounts a situation where Gandolfini disappeared just before he was supposed to be on a live Golden Globes telecast, presenting an award with Patricia Arquette. He was discovered on the venue's lawn, heavily intoxicated and creating snow angels despite the lack of snow.

Most reports about Gandolfini's struggles during filming highlighted his intense dedication to portraying Tony Soprano. As described in "Tinderbox," the toll of playing Tony extended beyond typical acting roles. Gandolfini expressed his concerns multiple times, stating, "You don't understand what this is doing to me."

Despite such behaviors, Falco has praised Gandolfini, highlighting their shared background and describing him as down-to-earth and self-deprecating. In a 2021 interview, she acknowledged their shared journey of unexpected fame.

Kamine's book highlights the complexities of working with a star facing personal challenges. It raises questions about the industry's tolerance for such issues and how contractual measures are introduced to manage disruptions caused by excessive consumption.

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