James Gandolfini Dies: 'Sopranos' Co-Stars and More Celebs React to Actor's Death

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James Gandolfini Dies: 'Sopranos' Co-Stars and More Celebs React to Actor's Death

Hollywood suffered a huge loss with the sudden passing of James Gandolfini on Wednesday at the age of 51. Gandolfini's managers Mark Armstrong and Nancy Sanders confirmed his death saying, "It is with immense sorrow that we report our client James Gandolfini passed away today while on holiday in Rome, Italy."

"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," said "Sopranos" creator David Chase. "A great deal of that genius resided in those sad eyes. I remember telling him many times, 'You don't get it. You're like Mozart.' There would be silence at the other end of the phone. For Deborah and Michael and Liliana this is crushing. And it's bad for the rest of the world. He wasn't easy sometimes. But he was my partner, he was my brother in ways I can't explain and never will be able to explain."

[Related: Why We Loved Tony Soprano]

Gandolfini's "Sopranos" co-stars shared their grief:

Edie Falco (Carmela Soprano): "I am shocked and devastated by Jim's passing. He was a man of tremendous depth and sensitivity, with a kindness and generosity beyond words. I consider myself very lucky to have spent 10 years as his close colleague. My heart goes out to his family." Falco continues saying she will "hold on to the memories of our intense and beautiful time together. The love between Tony and Carmela was one of the greatest I've ever known."

Jamie Lynn Sigler (Meadow Soprano): "This news has left me heartbroken. I can only imagine the pain his family feels at this time, and my heart goes out to them, especially Deborah, Michael, and Liliana. I spent 10 years of my life studying and admiring one of the most brilliant actors, yes, but more importantly one of the greatest men. Jim had the ability, unbeknownst to him, to make you feel like everything would be alright if he was around. I treasure my memories with him and feel so honored that I was an up close witness to his greatness."

Michael Imperioli (Christopher Moltisanti): "Jimmy treated us all like family with a generosity, loyalty, and compassion that is rare in this world.. Working with him was a pleasure and a privilege. I will be forever grateful having had a friend the likes of Jimmy."

Lorraine Bracco (Dr. Jennifer Melfi): "We lost a giant today. I am utterly heartbroken."

Tony Sirico (Paulie Gualtieri): "He was one of my best friends in life. He helped me with my career and I'm going to miss him. He's part of my family."

Steven Schirripa (Bobby Baccalieri): "Jimmy was a dear friend and like a brother to me. He was a great actor and a great father. I will miss him terribly. I am very sad."

Joseph R. Gannascoli (Vito Spatafore): "I will be forever indebted to Jimmy."

Steven Van Zandt (Silvio Dante): "I have lost a brother and a best friend. The world has lost one of the greatest actors of all time. [My wife] Maureen and I send our deepest sympathy and love to Deborah, Michael, Lily, and all of Jimmy's family."

Since the shocking and devastating news of his death broke, celebrities have taken to Twitter to share their memories and sorrow. Below are some of the most notable reactions so far. We'll continue to update as more come in.

See photos from "The Sopranos":

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