Five Characters on The Sopranos Who Grew on Me Over Time!

[@davidmajer3652]

The Sopranos was filled with colorful characters. it was almost a requirement, but to stay alive, you had to blend into the wallpaper. Sil and Paulie were colorful, but they stayed within the lines. The guys you mentioned were coming off the page. They seemed to be striving for their own series, so they had to be canceled.

[@SopranosBlueprint]

@@davidmajer3652 “Coming off the page” - I like that - very true ‼️

[@wayne3791]

All great characters! I never got all the intricacies of the characters on first watch of the Sopranos - took multiple re-watches ahead of the final season and even now I'll see things in your videos that I missed, not subtle things either. With that said I loved Feech's little arc even on first viewing - what a performance. Fun video as always. Idea for a future video, not to be negative but least favourite characters as in you wish they had less screen time (sorry will always be AJ for me) and favourite scams i.e. Webistecs, the phone cards, Hud etc.

[@SopranosBlueprint]

@@wayne3791 Thanks for your comment! And 💯💯💯 re: the intricacies. Same boat as you. And I’m glad you enjoyed the video! Also, that’s an excellent video topic - thank you for recommending it!

[@completesentences2125]

The line from the show that my family got the most mileage out of… “No more, Butchie…no more of this”.

[@SopranosBlueprint]

@@completesentences2125 Such an amazing line. Gives me goosebumps every time!

[@coyotemojo]

That was one of the scenes that burned into my memory. The chicken town song just seemed so perfect for it and I still dont know why.

[@tonyr7000]

Great list! And concur, in order for a character to occupy the imagination, they have to be quotable. On that basis I would definitely include Little Carmine who had the best malapropisms in the series. But when first introduced, he came across like a Little Carmine Fauntleroy. Stephanie, all I can say about your videos is that you are very observant: the sacred and the propane!

[@SopranosBlueprint]

@@tonyr7000 Thank you, my friend!! And interesting take on Little Carmine - I hadn’t thought of it like that, but I could definitely see how he may not give off the best first impression the whole got-clapped-in-irons vibe he presented to Tony upon meeting.

[@robertlee4172]

Absolutely! These antagonists were pivotal in adding depth and tension to "The Sopranos," making the series even more compelling. These are some of the most memorable characters. A veteran mobster released from prison, Feech tries to reclaim his old territory, leading to conflicts with Tony. His humor and old-school mentality brought a unique dynamic to the show. Junior Soprano's loyal and ruthless right-hand man. Mikey's violent nature and persistent antagonism towards Tony made him a notable early-season adversary. Another old-school mobster, Richie is volatile and brutal, often clashing with Tony and other members of the family. His unpredictable behavior added significant drama and tension. Known for his sadistic and manipulative nature, Ralph's antics and violent outbursts made him one of the most memorable and controversial characters in the series. A high-ranking member of the Lupertazzi family, Phil's vendetta against Tony and the New Jersey crew culminated in a series of violent confrontations. His calculating and ruthless persona was central to the show's later seasons. These characters not only drove the plot forward with their humor and brutality but also showcased the complexity and dark humor that made "The Sopranos" a groundbreaking series.

[@SopranosBlueprint]

@@robertlee4172 💯💯💯🔥🔥🔥

[@smellsuperb1]

Al Sapienza was great as Mikey Grab-Bag. Really would have liked to see another season with him, especially after Tony takes over. Still would have gotten clipped though.

[@SopranosBlueprint]

@@smellsuperb1 You should’ve sent a clear cut signal, that when you f*%k with Junior Soprano… TAKE IT EASY, we’re not makin’ a western here! (Meanwhile, we have Gary Cooper and all) 😄

[@smellsuperb1]

Make the fxckin' coffee 🗣️

[@robertlee4172]

That's some sad shit. Ma'fkker said he din't wanna live no more.

[@hammerhead222]

I liked Mikey and JoJo's relationship. The back and forth with insults and it seemed they just had fun with it. True love.

[@SopranosBlueprint]

Haha, absolutely! Their playful banter seemed to come from a place of affection and they made you laugh while doing it, too.

[@murraykelm5691]

Ralph even in the hospital could not control his rage, if Tony did not hold him back he was going to attack the boy that accidentally shot his boy with the arrow.

[@SopranosBlueprint]

Yes, that is true. Ralph’s anger was a ticking time bomb, and in that moment, his ex-wife really wasn't helping the situation, either, with her comments.

[@TooLooze]

Sure, they're all psychopaths, murderers, philanderers, double-crossers and snitches, but Ralphie spraying shrapnel was unconscionable. Great analysis, as usual!

[@smellsuperb1]

I appreciated Phil once he turned into a house 😂

[@SopranosBlueprint]

"Take that piece of $h*t and get off my stoop!"

[@SopranosBlueprint]

Thanks for the kind words! Your comment made me think of "Sure, we break some balls here tonight. But I go way back..." Philly, it's the wine.

[@robertlee4172]

Janice had done some heinous shit in her journey through America. Like those roadies under the boardwalk. But Ralph doing some personal grooming on their bed was just too much.

[@zareththealchemist8982]

Another great blueprint vid here. I’m with you - even that animal Blondetto grew on me after rewatching the shows. Madon! 👉 Richie and Ralphie. Two psychopathic peas in pod them two. Good thing they didn’t align themselves and try to take over the whole family, like Vic and Gaspipe did in real life. They mighta wound up dead. Oh, yeah, that’s right they both did. Them Sopranos huh? 🪦 The acting on that show was so good we’re still watching and talking about it 20 years later.

[@SopranosBlueprint]

Thank you! And yes, I agree with you about Blundetto! I also enjoyed him in Boardwalk Empire, as a side note. And 💯💯💯 about the characters being so phenomenal that we’re still talking about them all these years later!

[@TORO2036]

I ♡ your videos 😊

[@NotQuiteFirst]

For me it's Janice. At first I couldn't stand her, but upon re-watching I saw her as a comedic character and realised that she is hilarious. Season 2-4 Janice is comedy gold, especially the s3 stuff.

[@SopranosBlueprint]

@@NotQuiteFirst Another excellent pick! Janice is such a comedic character like you say and was such an excellent addition to the show. Interesting how things would’ve turned out differently had Nancy Marchand not passed away when she did.

[@robertlee4172]

Ooof, mad-on! It was that sexy gap in her front teeth that sold me. Rubenesque.

[@Okayand33]

Her holding back from laughing while discussing Livia's funeral at cozzarellis is amazing Go back and check. There was a glance.

[@MRGRIMZ89]

DOPE VIDEO!! THANKS.

[@abdullzain]

If you wanna talk like that we ll send you to slip and fall school

[@MRGRIMZ89]

@@abdullzain lol

[@SopranosBlueprint]

@@MRGRIMZ89 Thanks!!! Appreciate the comment!!

[@tiffybnTN]

👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 I liked how Mikey talked to his wife 😳😳😳... 🤭🤭🤭

[@JamesDomenicoGrabban81]

Phil Leotardo was hands down the best character in the Sopranos.

[@fagittarius555]

Not even close, my friend.

[@petersarubbi]

Leonardo was a great Italian, and it was their name originally, Leonardo. But many years ago, when his grandpa came over from Sicily, they changed it at Ellis Island to "Leotardo"... Because they're stupid, that's why, and jealous. They disrespected a proud Italian heritage and named them after a ballet costume. 😆

[@JamesDomenicoGrabban81]

Opinions vary, but only mine matters.

[@SopranosBlueprint]

"It's an opinion!" -Mr. Pontecorvo

[@SopranosBlueprint]

Phil will like hearing that.

[@JBrooksNYS]

Vito grew on me if that's what you're referring to

[@SopranosBlueprint]

Was this on the Good Ship Lollipop or the Hindenburg?

[@robertlee4172]

@@SopranosBlueprint Macy's parade float.

[@louistracy6964]

Every one a fascinating character, adding spice. Their faults and foibles make them vivid. Also the feeling that their time on the planet, or out of prison, is very limited. For me, Ralph burns brightest.

[@SopranosBlueprint]

They all really did have a unique presence, and you’re right about the limited time aspect. It made every moment feel more intense.

[@Void7.4.14]

It's hard to pick a character that was killed off that I'd keep if we had a do-over, but Mikey is at the top of that list. I can imagine a scenario where he actually makes it to the end of the series, maybe hamstrung by legal issues or something like that (not unlike Larry Boy), and stays involved here and there. Only one really competing with em is Blundetto. As much as I loved Pus his death was absolutely necessary imo. And as much as I liked Richie I'd probably just give em 2 seasons instead of 1. What's wild is there's a good bit of evidence (mostly from offhand comments from Chase and some interviews with Joey Pants) that Ralph was actually supposed to be more complex. There's this whole backstory of his abusive mom (iirc most of it's revealed as he spills to the priest after his son's injury) and all that but it ended up cut. If they'd have included that instead of just hinting at it I really think the character would be very different and faaar more sympathetic. If I had to guess David Chase cut it cause he already had beef with how much the audience fell in love with these characters, which is also where I think the whole (thankfully) dropped Uncle Junior chomo plot that was at least entertained during the making of The Many Saints of Newark came from 🤢

[@SopranosBlueprint]

Great points! Mikey definitely had potential to stick around longer, and it’s always interesting to think about how things could have played out if certain characters had stayed or played an even larger role in the overall story. The lost backstory on Ralph is definitely part of why I was disappointed to see his character go. And amen to your last point about Junior in the MSON!!

[@javi__...]

Feech was gold. Never hated his character. Always led to more yelling and tension. Just like ralph.

[@MatthewHollins-ys3lm]

Do you have any plans to cover the Attwell Avenue Boys from Rhode Island Stephanie? I know they only made a cameo but they're quite memorable.

[@robertlee4172]

My favorite, Thkip Lupari - FBI agent. "Thoney fearth parabolicths, tho he gowths thew the baithment where heath got theath noithy a thee ducths."

[@kcmule]

1. I'll never get over how stupid Mikey was to not only go jogging unarmed but to do so in a wooded area where there are no witnesses. 2. I guess the whole "not hitting a made guy" thing goes out the window when money is owed? Because Tony certainly didn't think twice about clobbering Phil, and Phil never made any complaints about it.

[@SopranosBlueprint]

Right? Especially in the middle of all the indictments on top of the botched assassination attempt from the prior episode. But I guess it's like Junior said...guys today want to be buried in their jogging outfits.

[@KRS2000]

Feech could have had a much bigger presence on the show if it wasn't for Robert Loggia having issues at the time (apparently). Unfortunately, he just became another quick character to write out of the show. We heard two or three stories about him starting back in season 2 and again in season 3 (I forget if he was mentioned again in season 4), and then we finally got to see the man himself, only for him to get sent back to jail as fast as he got out. He could have played by the rules but despise taking orders from Tony throughout season 5, and then he could have gotten sent back near the end of the season. Maybe around the time of the Test Dream episode, Tony could have set him up, and he could have encountered him in his dream and got chastised for sending him back. I don't know. It probably wouldn't have worked out if they did it that way.

[@SopranosBlueprint]

I know you say it probably wouldn’t have worked out that way, but when it comes to backs (and The Sopranos), nobody knows anything, really ;) and on a serious note, I heard the same thing re: Loggia having some cognitive issues that made it difficult for him to memorize his lines, etc.

[@KRS2000]

@SopranosBlueprint I saw what you did there 🤪 Maybe Feech was the one who hired the members only guy to whack Tony at the end? Even though I don't think David Chase has ever officially confirmed the fate of Tony.

[@jamesmorant1406]

Imagine Phil, Ralph, Feech Mickey, and Richie all working together to take down Tony

[@robertlee4172]

I've said it before, I'll say it again...The Sopranos series took these bit players and launched their careers into legendary status. Gandolfini, Imperioli, Bracco, Iler, Falco, Sigler, Proval, Castaluccio, Pantoliano...Eh, there are exceptions of course. But these actors are now fully set for life with a regular supply of butter brickle and maple walnut ice-cream.

[@reniemasi5683]

💖

[@SopranosBlueprint]

@@reniemasi5683 ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️

[@hatenation4064]

Janice never grew on me lol

[@MrPink1992]

My favourite villains were the unidentified black males

[@SopranosBlueprint]

Yeah, they really hit Tony hard that night he didn't show up for the job with Tony B!

[@thecarter8700]

Lmaooo I think everyone loved Phil

[@SopranosBlueprint]

@@thecarter8700 It’s hard not to! And even if someone “hates” him, I feel like there’s most often still recognition that he was a fantastic character.

[@bigal8752]

My favorite character is those two black guys you never see during pivotal moments during the show.

[@erickennedy8534]

What you mean they cause all the crimes

[@Grover3364]

What it’s my fault that you’re twice as likely to be robbed by a black?

[@kingoneil4644]

Mikey palmice left to make that western junior didnt want to

[@SopranosBlueprint]

He followed in the footsteps of Gary Cooper, the strong, silent type...except he's wearing his jogging outfit.

[@deimos5177]

Mikey should’ve walked instead of Jogging He could’ve saved up some energy to use when Paulie and Chris with that natural canopy of his were Chasing him

[@SopranosBlueprint]

Right? Or he should've laid low in the house for a little while/not gone into a wooded area alone with everything going on at that time!

[@joemckim1183]

All of these characters were considered great characters when they were first introduced.

[@SopranosBlueprint]

Absolutely. That's why I couldn't help but appreciate them for their contributions to the story despite their villain status.

[@joemckim1183]

@SopranosBlueprint It's a show about gangsters, theyre all technically villains. The terms you're looking for is antagonst and protagonist.

[@SopranosBlueprint]

@joemckim1183 I think that’s up for debate with most people considering Tony Soprano to be the modern TV’s antihero template (though I do think he could be rightfully classified as a villain, as well.)

[@joemckim1183]

@@SopranosBlueprint Tony definitely became more of a villain as the show went on where he got greedier with the money as you got to the later seasons. Basically why Carlo flipped on Tony at the end of the series.

[@wilt2303]

First time watching the series I didn’t really like Paulie, I found him annoying (he is). But now I love how he started as one of the most charismatic characters but becomes funnier and funnier throughout the series. I'm on my second rewatch now and almost all his lines make me laugh lol

[@SopranosBlueprint]

Paulie's such a fascinating character! He's certainly one of the reasons I was so drawn in to the series and had to start rewatching right after I finished so I didn't go through Sopranos withdrawal 😆

[@wilt2303]

@@SopranosBlueprint Sopranos withdrawal is an incurable disease 🤣

[@wilt2303]

@@SopranosBlueprint Right after I see your answer I play your Wordle game on your website and get it first try with "Paulie" 🤣🤣

[@SopranosBlueprint]

@ Paulie would call that satanic black magic!! 🤣🤣🤣

[@ingenieroresidente285]

This show made people to love the bad guys... Guess they made you believe you could be a friend with some of them. There should be some boring explanations of that, but they really did it good.

[@SopranosBlueprint]

Totally! The Sopranos does a brilliant job of blurring the lines between good and bad, which makes you sympathize with characters you normally wouldn’t.

[@Adamortega_]

For me its chrisopher except the adrianna abuse Ritchie Artie Meadow And junior they all grow on me as i rewatch over and over again haha

[@SopranosBlueprint]

@@Adamortega_ Nice!! Those are all great choices and yes, that’s a good thing to point out re: Chris and I certainly feel the same re: the heinous things these guys do, too. They grow on us DESPITE what they do, not because of it.

[@franzherflek4116]

What about the two black guys?

[@KRS2000]

Oh yeah. Those two guys. The same ones that tried to take Tony Bs shoes and smashed and kicked around Lil' Paulie.

[@SopranosBlueprint]

And stole Meadow's bike, too...or something like that.

[@ricocox2591]

Mikey was just following orders and he was loyal to his boss.

[@JeffBurn-b1i]

Mikey was an obnoxious yes man and I will never respect his character, Richie had all the annoying Italian mannerisms and disrespectful. Ralph was taboo and perverse, yet induced on cocaine affected his behaviour. Feech what can you say a drooling old-school Pitbull. Phil was like a stubborn immature child (, especially before he got his head swished)

[@SopranosBlueprint]

@@JeffBurn-b1i Those are all true things - they’re no heroes - but to me, they all came together to make The Sopranos the masterpiece that it is, with comedic elements being a key factor for me that made them enjoyable despite their obvious character flaws as humans.

[@JeffBurn-b1i]

@SopranosBlueprint No doubt each did their role brilliantly in the series and Joe Pantoliano delivered the best performance of the list in your video.

[@coyotemojo]

These characters are all a line of Tony's arc leading up to getting whacked. Made guys he went after for personal or petty reasons. Ratting out Feech. Breaking all the old school rules. If the 5 families lore is right, then they'd all be looking down on him as a loose cannon with no respect for their authority. I loved Mikey, too. He was hilarious. He was a dick, but it seemed to be mostly verbal. Jojo wasn't afraid of him, so he couldn't have been that bad. Not like Richie and Ralph. We saw how they treated their women.

[@SopranosBlueprint]

@@coyotemojo Thanks for the comment!! Great points 🔥🔥

[@coyotemojo]

@@SopranosBlueprint thanks! Love your videos. They always make me look a little closer.

[@Sutter635-jk4td]

What if JAMES PRICE flipped?? Hehehehe

[@ricardofeliciano6503]

Mikey and Ritchie great characters Tony’s insecurity made us not like them