Michael Imperioli

Michael Imperioli: From "Goodfellas" to "The Sopranos"

Early Life and Career

Michael Imperioli was born on March 26, 1966, in Mount Vernon, New York. He attended New York University's Tisch School of the Arts, where he studied acting. After graduating, he landed small roles in films such as "Goodfellas" (1990) and "Jungle Fever" (1991).

Breakthrough Role in "The Sopranos"

Imperioli's breakout role came in 1999 when he was cast as Christopher Moltisanti in the HBO series "The Sopranos." As the volatile and unpredictable nephew of mob boss Tony Soprano, Imperioli delivered a nuanced and powerful performance that earned him critical acclaim and three Emmy Awards.

Christopher Moltisanti's Impact

Christopher's character became a fan favorite, and his relationship with Tony was a central focus of the show. Imperioli's portrayal captured the duality of Christopher's nature, showcasing both his violent tendencies and his moments of vulnerability and self-doubt.

Other Notable Work

After "The Sopranos" ended in 2007, Imperioli continued to work in both film and television. He appeared in films such as "The Lovely Bones" (2009) and "Oldboy" (2013), and he had recurring roles in shows like "Life on Mars" (2008-2009) and "Mad Men" (2011-2012).

Recent Projects

In recent years, Imperioli has focused primarily on directing. He directed episodes of the TV series "The Deuce" (2017-2019) and "The Plot Against America" (2020). He also wrote and directed the film "Summer of Sam" (2021).

Personal Life

Imperioli has been married to Victoria Chlebowski since 1995. They have three children together. In 2019, he revealed that he had been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2016.

Health and Advocacy

Imperioli has used his platform to raise awareness about multiple sclerosis. He has spoken out about the challenges of living with the condition and the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.

Conclusion

Michael Imperioli is a talented actor, director, and writer who has made significant contributions to both film and television. His portrayal of Christopher Moltisanti in "The Sopranos" remains one of the most iconic performances in television history. As he continues to work in the entertainment industry, Imperioli is sure to leave a lasting legacy on the art of storytelling.