Renowned "Sopranos" actress Drea de Matteo strongly opposed a newly published book that explores the reported personal challenges of her late co-star, James Gandolfini. De Matteo strongly criticized the book, calling it a 'money grab.' She questioned its honesty and the decision to reveal Gandolfini's alleged struggles, especially regarding the timing.

In a Page Six exclusive interview, de Matteo openly voiced her discontent with the book written by "The Sopranos" location manager, Mark Kamine. Known for her portrayal of Adriana La Cerva, the actress implied that the book lacks sincerity and is motivated by financial gain.

Exposing Gandolfini's Struggles

Kamine's book, titled "On Locations: Lessons Learned from My Life On Set with The Sopranos and in the Film Industry," delves into the personal life of Gandolfini, focusing on his purported battles with substance abuse. The book recounts incidents where Gandolfini's behavior on set was allegedly impacted by his struggles, including arriving late to film episodes and grappling with the consequences of his actions.

Kamine's book recounts Gandolfini being late for a Season 5 episode shoot after spending a night in Atlantic City. Gandolfini showed up four hours late, cursing, struggling with lines, and displaying a mix of embarrassment and rudeness, as he typically did when making mistakes.

Kamine also revealed that HBO included a clause in Gandolfini's contract, making him accountable for shoot-day expenses if he missed work due to excessive consumption.

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The difficulties Gandolfini had on set have been talked about previously. "Tinderbox" by James Andrew Miller recounts a scenario where Gandolfini vanished just before he was scheduled to accept an award with Patricia Arquette during a live Golden Globes presentation. He was found on the venue's lawn, quite drunk and making snow angels even though there was no snow. The book also emphasized his commitment to playing Tony Soprano, coming with a cost beyond acting parts. 

Defending Gandolfini's Legacy

De Matteo, who is deeply connected to Gandolfini's family, vehemently defended the late actor's legacy. She challenged the accuracy of Kamine's portrayal of Gandolfini's behavior. She asserted that he is much more than the book suggests. Highlighting Gandolfini's positive attributes, she fondly called him an 'angel' and dismissed the emphasis on his supposed personal struggles.

Additionally, the actress raised concerns about the book's timing, releasing just weeks after "The Sopranos" marked its 25th anniversary. De Matteo, underscoring cultural sensitivities within the Italian community, disapproved of what she saw as an untimely effort to capitalize on the show's significant milestone.

During the interview, de Matteo raised a middle finger as a symbolic expression of her severe disapproval, highlighting the intensity of her views toward Kamine's book and its contents.

Gandolfini died of a heart attack at the age of 51 on June 19, 2013. His role as Tony earned him several awards.

Kamine did not comment in response to the criticism. He remarked, 'Everyone's entitled to their opinion, whether they read the book or not, I guess.'

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