‘Sopranos’ star suffers heartbreaking tragedy

Dominic Chianese
Dominic Chianese attends HBO's "The Sopranos" 20th anniversary at the SVA Theatre on Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2019, in New York. Chianese died on April 15 of cancer. (Photo by Charles Sykes/Invision/AP)Charles Sykes/Invision/AP

One of the stars of the popular HBO show “The Sopranos” has suffered a major loss.

Sarah Francesca Chianese, the daughter of actor Dominic Chianese, died on April 15 from cancer. She was 58.

The Chianese family announced her death via an Instagram post on the Sopranos fan account Sopranos Aficionado,

“The Chianese family has asked me to post a tribute for Sarah Chianese,” the post read. “Sarah Francesca Chianese, daughter of Dominic Chianese, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 15th. She battled glioblastoma and was only 58 years old. Her father stayed by her side til the very end.”

The post also included a quote from Sarah’s sister, Rebecca Chianese, which read: “Sarah was a bright light in this world, she wanted everyone to live their happiest life and smile when they think of her.”

Dominic Chianese, 94, is best known for playing the mob boss Uncle Junior Soprano during all six seasons of the show’s run. He was nominated for an Emmy for Best Supporting Actor in a Drama in 2000 and 2001.

Sarah’s brother, Dominic Jr., told People that she will be remembered for her kindness.

“I would just like to say that my father was there in her final days to support her in her transition. It was important to her and him both,” he said to the news outlet.

Chris Mautner

Stories by Chris Mautner

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