Sarah Shahi Details Memorable Scene with James Gandolfini

Sarah Shahi recently shared insights about filming a memorable scene with “Sopranos” star James Gandolfini. Speaking on the “Bossticks” podcast, Shahi remarked that her on-screen kiss with Gandolfini ranked among the best she’s experienced.

Shahi recounted her initial doubts about creating chemistry with Gandolfini. She wondered how she would be attracted to him, describing him as a “47-year-old large, balding man.” However, as filming progressed, she found herself genuinely engaged in the scene.

The actress elaborated on the particular scene where their characters consumed mushrooms before she kissed Gandolfini’s character. According to Shahi, Gandolfini, being a method actor, requested props that included dehydrated mushrooms with pepper or spices to evoke a physical reaction.

As the scene unfolded, Shahi described sitting on Gandolfini’s lap while they mimicked taking mushrooms. The passion portrayed on screen reportedly continued even when the director announced “cut.” Shahi noted that the scene required multiple takes due to their continued kissing.

In “The Sopranos,” Shahi portrayed Sonya Aragon, a stripper and college student who was also the mistress of Christopher Moltisanti, played by Michael Imperioli. She appeared in the show’s sixth season in 2007.

James Gandolfini, known for his role as Tony Soprano, died on June 19, 2013, due to a heart attack while vacationing in Rome, Italy. He was 51 years old.