Working-class Westwood, New Jersey mourned the loss of their hometown hero, TV mob boss James Gandolfini.
The Emmy Award winner, who was born in the town’s Pascack Valley Hospital in 1961, still visited the town and was remembered as a regular guy.
“We’ve known him for a very long time, since he was a teenager,” said Mike Meidanis, the owner of Ridge Diner. “He came every Sunday with his family”
A signed copy of Gandolfini’s New Jersey Magazine cover is near the eatery’s entrance.
“I’m devastated,” said manager Peter Fatouros, 61. “Even though he was a big celebrity, he still came around to his old neighborhood.”
“He was everything to his town. We are so proud of him.”
New Jersey governor Chris Christie called the Sopranos star’s death an “awful shock.”
“James Gandolfini was a fine actor, a Rutgers alum and a true Jersey guy. I was a huge fan of his and the character he played so authentically, Tony Soprano. “
Gandolfini came humble roots.
His mother, Santa Gandolfini, was a lunch lady. His father James Gandolfini, Sr. was a native of Italy and a custodian at Paramus Catholic High School.
The budding actor attended Park Ridge High School where he graduated in 1979. He played basketball and acted in school plays.
His presence was felt across New Jersey, where he was known for always being in good spirits and his infectious humor.
“So sad about James Gandolfini,” said Illana Raia from Saddle River.
“I remember watching ‘Analyze This’ in Westwood, NJ theater right behind him. His laugh was loudest of all.”
He also attended the local Rutgers University in New Brunswick.
Gandolfini’s two sisters, Johanna Antonacci and Leta Gandolfini, still live in the north New Jersey area of Bergen County.
The New Jersey Hall of Fame posted on their Facebook page last night
“Gandolfini was one of the most beloved actors of his generation, and was always proud of his Jersey roots. He will be sorely missed.”