Additional Coverage:
- Steven Van Zandt on James Gandolfini: “I miss him every day” (newsbreak.com)
This week on 60 Minutes, reporter Jon Wertheim had the opportunity to delve into the life and career of Steven Van Zandt—a renowned guitarist, songwriter, producer, actor, and activist.
Last summer, Wertheim’s journey took him to Rome, where he experienced Van Zandt’s electrifying performance at Circus Maximus. This ancient venue, once the heart of Roman entertainment, was alive again with the energy of thousands of fans singing along.
For Van Zandt, being in Italy was a deeply personal experience. “I’m all Italian,” he shared with Wertheim, acknowledging the strong connection he feels to the country.
Their conversation took place in the serene setting of Van Zandt’s hotel garden in Rome—an interview spot chosen both for its beauty and as a practical measure against the throngs of fans eagerly waiting outside. As Wertheim pointed out, a stroll down Via del Corso by Van Zandt was bound to draw a crowd, underlining his celebrity status in Italy.
The interview covered a broad spectrum, touching on Van Zandt’s illustrious career with the E Street band, his multifaceted endeavors beyond the band, his early days as a musician in New Jersey, his philosophical views on music, and notably, his acting role as Silvio Dante on the acclaimed TV drama The Sopranos. Interestingly, Van Zandt had no prior acting experience before joining the cast of The Sopranos. He reminisced about his initial anxieties and how co-star James Gandolfini, or “Jimmy” as he affectionately called him, immediately made him feel welcomed and respected.
Van Zandt mused on how his real-life friendship with Gandolfini might have influenced their on-screen relationship, particularly as his character became Tony Soprano’s close advisor and underboss. This dynamic seemed a natural progression for Van Zandt, who saw parallels between his role on the show and his real-life experience as Bruce Springsteen’s right-hand man.
Reflecting on the profound loss of Gandolfini, who passed away over a decade ago, Van Zandt shared, “I miss him every day.”
The segment, aired on November 19, 2023, was crafted by producer Will Croxton and editor Sarah Shafer Prediger, offering viewers a rare glimpse into the life of an iconic artist whose contributions to music and television have left an indelible mark.
Read More About This Story:
- Steven Van Zandt on James Gandolfini: “I miss him every day” (newsbreak.com)