Sarah Shahi Reflects on Memorable Kiss with James Gandolfini

Actress Sarah Shahi recently shared insights into her memorable on-screen kiss with “Sopranos” star James Gandolfini. During her appearance on the “Bossticks” podcast, Shahi described the kiss as one of the best she has ever experienced.

“We had this scene where he was so hot,” Shahi recalled. Initially, she found it challenging to imagine being attracted to Gandolfini, whom she described as “a 47-year-old large, balding man.” However, she later admitted that the scene worked for her.

Shahi appeared briefly on “The Sopranos” as Sonya Aragon, a stripper and college student involved with Christopher Moltisanti, played by Michael Imperioli. Her role was part of the show’s sixth season in 2007.

Describing the scene with Gandolfini, Shahi explained that they played characters who took mushrooms while sitting intimately. Gandolfini, known for his dedication to method acting, requested dehydrated mushrooms with spicy seasonings to heighten the realism of their reactions.

Shahi mentioned that they had to film the scene several times. Even after the director called “cut,” the two actors continued to kiss, engaged in the moment.

James Gandolfini, best known for his role as Tony Soprano, passed away unexpectedly at 51 from a heart attack in June 2013 while in Rome, Italy.