FILE – This Sept. 21, 2003 file photo shows actors Edie Falco, left, and James Gandolfini with the awards they won for outstanding lead actress and actor in a drama series for their work on The Sopranos at the 55th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles. HBO and the managers for Gandolfini say the actor died Wednesday, June 19, 2013, in Italy. He was 51.(AP Photos/Mark J. Terrill, file
LOS ANGELES — James Gandolfini’s fans and colleagues shared reaction to his death Wednesday in Italy. He was 51:
— “He was a genius. Anyone who saw him even in the smallest of his performances knows that. He is one of the greatest actors of this or any time. A great deal of that genius resided in those sad eyes. He was my partner. … He was my brother in ways I can’t explain and never will be able to explain.” — David Chase, creator of “The Sopranos.”
— “Fifty-one and leaves a kid — he was newly married. His son is fatherless now … It’s way too young.” — Joe Gannascoli, who played Vito Spatafore on “The Sopranos.”
— “The great James Gandolfini passed away today. Only 51. I can’t believe it.” — Bette Midler on Twitter.
— “James Gandolfini what a nice guy, so funny and sweet. He will be sorely missed. Our deepest condolences to his family.” — Aerosmith guitarist Joe Perry on Twitter.
— “I am heartbroken about James Gandolfini. He was a gentle giant and great man. I love this picture, I loved him.” — Actress Rose McGowan, who posted a snapshot of her and Gandolfini on Twitter.
— “You will be missed greatly James Gandolfini Maybe best actor ever on a tv series. Salute'” — Comedian Artie Lange on Twitter.
— “awful awful news. James Gandolfini will be missed. He was a great actor. Just great.” — Mia Farrow on Twitter.
—”My thoughts and prayers go out to James Gandolfini’s family. An extraordinary actor. RIP, Mr. Gandolfini.” — Robin Williams.
— “R.I.P. James Gandolfini. Such a great actor. More than just tony soprano and that would have been a lot on its own.” — Musician Rob Thomas on Twitter.