James Gandolfini's son Michael to play young Tony Soprano in film

He will star in the upcoming film prequel to the TV series.

January 23, 2019, 3:25 PM

In an inspiring move and a tribute to late actor James Gandolfini, "The Sopranos" star's son Micheal will play a younger version of Tony Soprano in David Chase's prequel film, "The Many Saints of Newark."

James Gandolfini, who died in 2013, brought the iconic HBO character to life from 1999 to 2007.

Michael Gandolfini has been getting his acting chops in other HBO shows like "The Duece," and had to win the role of Tony Soprano by auditioning, according to Deadline, which broke the news.

Young Gandolfini joins Vera Farmiga, Corey Stoll and others in the upcoming film, which will be set in 1960's Newark, New Jersey.

“It’s a profound honor to continue my dad’s legacy while stepping into the shoes of a young Tony Soprano,” Gandolfini said in a statement to Deadline.

Michael recently spent time with the original stars of "The Sopranos," walking the red carpet alongside Jamie-Lynn Sigler and Robert Iler to celebrate the show's 20th anniversary.

"Damn I’m lucky that I got to grow up around these people. What a beautiful reunion. Big love all around," he wrote on Instagram.