Why Tony Considered Killing Paulie - Soprano Theories

Paulie may have survived the Colombo war by the skin of his balls, but he also doesn't know how close he came to Tony killing him while on his trip to Miami. Always known as a blabber-mouth, a liar, full of greed, selfish, and a total complainer and pain in the ass. Paulie's true colours were on full display throughout the fifteenth episode of season six "Remember When" As Tony saw right through him and finally realized he was involved in the controversy that unfolded with John Sacrimoni on why he began to question and get jealous of Tony during the real estate scam, and also about the infamous joke about Sacrimoni's beloved Ginni. For all these reasons as well as playing telephone with John, Paulie should have been clipped, but he wasn't. As Tony simply couldn't get himself together to kill one of his most loyal capo's.
Do you think Paulie should have died? Let me know down below 👇🏻
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[@SopranoTheories]

Paulie may have survived the Colombo war by the skin of his balls, but he also doesn't know how close he came to Tony killing him while on his trip to Miami. Always known as a blabber-mouth, a liar, full of greed, selfish, and a total complainer and pain in the ass. Paulie's true colours were on full display throughout the fifteenth episode of season six "Remember When" As Tony saw right through him and finally realized he was involved in the controversy that unfolded with John Sacrimoni on why he began to question and get jealous of Tony during the real estate scam, and also about the infamous joke about Sacrimoni's beloved Ginni. For all these reasons as well as playing telephone with John, Paulie should have been clipped, but he wasn't. As Tony simply couldn't get himself together to kill one of his most loyal capo's. Do you think Paulie should have died? Let me know down below 👇🏻

[@purge2--u--nite342]

Tony also respects Paulie, he looked up to him as a father figure growing up. Also Paulie gets last laugh 😂 when he sends that expensive cappuccino machine. You can see it in Tony's face too lol. Out of the crew imo I think Tony trusts him most. Tony gets his way tho cause he gets Paulie to run the bad luck crew 😂 Paulie says no at first but he will DIE for Tony. That's true LOYALTY.

[@PolishKnightUSA]

As other analysis of this particular situation discussed, Paulie passed a unique test with Tony in that he wouldn't "confess" even when pressed emotionally by Tony which is a powerful ability for someone to go up against the Feds. Tony knows that Paulie is "old school" and has zero respect for rats and Paulie's ability to NOT spill the beans to Tony says much about his honor. Tony knows that for Paulie's own Cosa Nostra sake, he'll keep his mouth shut when it matters. So that's why Tony didn't kill him. Paulie's minor betrayals to Tony were secondary to Paulie's integrity to the life itself.

[@cosmicskates7721]

No and I'm gonna go off the deep end a little bit here and try to explain why I think that lol. K, Janice when she and Richie were in their honeymoon stage of their engagement, driving home one evening if my recollection makes any sense, Janice was sitting passenger, egging him on to wipe Tony out for good, um nuts! Richie had to let something like that slip, for example * and as much as I love Ro and the rest of the ladies, gossip circles are inevitable. Richie could have maybe confided to his sis-in-law Rosalie about certain details stressing him out w Janice. Kinda like when Livia and Jr show up to falsely support Tony when he was shot early on and everybody's cool as a cucumber, playing the part, fake as hell having cocktails and grubbing on gabagool 🤣

[@purge2--u--nite342]

@@PolishKnightUSA good point. Loyalty is key 🗝️ and tony looks and knows when someone is lying to him. Tony pressed on Paulie about that joke and he wanted soooo bad to break Paulie, (shows how tony gets off on this kinda power) to admit it, yet Paulie with that STONE FACE 🗿 didn't rattle 😂. This series is so epic and it's great to see others share the passion and thoughts of these great episodes.

[@menelik23dedon]

No, Tony Passed him over so much times , he was living like a rat, tony treated him like shit lets keep it a buck, Paulie would of Wacked Tony Too Given the Right Circumstances, as a Matter of Fact that's what he tried to do When he Made the Call, Very Machiavelli like in my Opinion. Also tony Lets Say was Out of hand With the Hand that Fed Him or Allowed to Prosper which Was NY, Paulie knew this Was a BIG ERROR on tonys Behalf So he Reached out to Show his Respect, and Leadership, Because tony Allowed the Joke to Fester, lets keep it a Buck, Tony Was Boss With the Class and Attitude of a Soldier, he Was Suppose to Laugh at the Joke but Also tell his Crew to never Repeat it Again

[@marcster0581]

I think Tony was mostly worried that Paulie was going to accidentally reveal something by just talking too much as he usually does. During that talk with Beansie, he tells him that “Paulie has never been put to the test”, which is why he kept pressuring him to admit he told the joke. Tony wanted to see if Paulie would fold in the heat of the moment, which Paulie didn’t. That’s why Paulie survived.

[@Gigibaby88]

That's a really good observation, I never thought of it that way but that totally makes sense

[@lukeellis1562]

Thank You! I can't believe so many people can't see this. Both Tony knows Paulie told the joke. Paulie knows Tony knows. On the boat it's like a police interrogation where Tony is using 'good cop' tactics to get him to admit to it.

[@cosmicskates7721]

@@lukeellis1562 but now I get it gawd LOL! burn me @ the stake like Joan of Arc 😆

[@elwiz1967]

Shit what a brilliant observation. Makes so much sense

[@mikepastor.k6233]

Paulie wasn't a great earner. You saw how Tony bent over backwards trying to save Vito. Not because he was sympathetic to his gay plight but because he was his best earner.

[@puremisery1649]

Tony was setting up a mock interrogation on the boat. He knew that Paulie told Johnny the joke, but Tony wanted to see if Paulie could keep his mouth shut in a very stressful situation. If Paulie admitted to telling the joke, Tony would have for sure killed him.

[@HowardMoon56]

That's an interesting view, you're totally right. AlsoI think by the 6th season, we all knew that Paulie would never admit his wrongdoings no matter how stresfull the situation is.

[@JSWang-ii8kd]

it reminds me in the end of the god father1, Michael persuaded Carlo to confess the conspiracy. But Tony didn't have the making of a Don.

[@joshuaprevost7332]

My friend you’re a genius, I never looked at it that way but it makes so much sense

[@nuisanceadc5263]

A Don doesn’t wear shorts.

[@diligentsun1154]

excellent point

[@burgersquaad]

When you think about it, Paulie was pretty much the source of most of Tony’s problems towards the end, he’s the reason that tony had issues with New York and he’s one of the main reasons Christopher lashed out so much

[@Gigibaby88]

I have a feeling if it wasn't Paulie, Christopher would've found another reason to lash out. He was just a lashing out kind of guy.

[@lauleareyes7483]

And when paulie visited Tony in the hospital given specif instructions to talk positively but almost killed Tony while he was in a coma cuz he was blabbing on negative past stories.

[@joenetoneable]

Tony always did what was best for him not the family only his family was the reason for justifying his job, and New York will always take what they want even if their own boss gets whacked as long as the capos go along and give the OK. I’m sure Johnny sack poisoned his boss at the table when he smelled burning hair before dying, but I said too much already.

[@johnv6806]

@@joenetoneable isn't smelling hair burning a precursor to a stroke or something?

[@Braindead591]

GET THE F OUTTA OF HERE - Paulie angry voice

[@g392_cs_echo5]

I just finished rewatching the series. I forgot what a monster Paulie was. I guess I'd forgotten he robbed and murdered that old lady. Great actor though, and a real life old school wise guy.

[@tidepride86]

He really was a psycho. You can kinda tell that the writers/director tried bringing in comedic tones to that scene so fans wouldn't outright hate Paulie forever.

[@keithm11112]

Minn! Ya door was open, I brought you something from my Ma

[@tidepride86]

@@keithm11112 "you're here to rob me." "No, what are you, crazy? lol

[@keithm11112]

@@tidepride86 take it easy, ya car was gone

[@NameyMcNamerson]

So easy to forget. We see these guys with their families and friends and can easily lose focus on the horrible things they do. Seeing the entirety of the characters’ humanity is one of the things that makes the show so brilliant. But every one of them commits really despicable acts.

[@jacksmith1983]

It was ultimately Beansie's talk with Tony that saved Paulie's life. It caused Tony to momentarily hesitate and take pity on him.

[@flightofthebumblebee9529]

Yes but Paulie was tough and Tony knew that. If Tony attacked him you bet your ass Paulie would've fought back. Which may have been bad for Tony.

[@Eperdomo86]

eh Tony also couldve viewed it as no one really cares about him, he has no strings other than the mob so he wouldnt have to take care of anyone associated with Paulie

[@rickrolledtruth5834]

Watching three's company lmfao

[@jacksmith1983]

What also helped Paulie is he absolutely knew in his head and his heart the danger he was in. He knew the way Tony's mind was moving. If he had shown any weakness or confessed he would be dead. He stuck to his guns and didn't dare to exhibit fear or contrition as he knew both would prove fatal. That's where Paulie's years of conditioning came into play. A lesser man would have come clean and pleaded for his life. Paulie held fast that he hadn't repeated the Ginny joke and without John Sacrimomi's confirmation Tony was only guessing and ultimately Paulie was a made man.

[@flightofthebumblebee9529]

@@jacksmith1983 Paulie had wisdom. When Sil and Bobby berated him and made him put the hit on Phil (you call the guy that calls the guy) he flat out warned them of the dangers involved and they did it anyway and how did that end up for Bobby and Silvio? (I guess they were already marked anyway but still)

[@DDavy2014]

All the characters were psychopaths or sociopaths in their own way, but Paulie exhibited so many textbook characteristics. He was an incredibly brutal guy when he needed to be, but could come across as sweet, caring and sincere when talking to Carmela or Meadow for example. He would completely change his tone of voice depending on who he was speaking to, such as Tony and John. But when talking to Christopher or anyone he deemed beneath him he was normally always undermining or rude. Paulie was the sort of guy who would ignore you if you were a nobody, but then kiss your ass if he saw you were friends with powerful people. For example, when he spoke to Meadows boyfriend like shit and told him to clean his tires, then chased after him with a big smile and some money when he found out he was dating Tony’s daughter. He was also duplicitous maybe more than any other character and very greedy. Even more than characters like Ralph and Ritchie because they had quite a clear agenda. Paulie played both sides secretly. He always wanted more and was never satisfied but still painted himself as the victim. He was a cheap thug in an expensive suit. The sort of guy who would steal a charity donation box and shoot somebody if they threatened to tell the police. A real POS and probably the most accurate portrayal of a mob guy. These guys aren’t usually rich, successful or smart. Most of them are bottom of the ladder, button pushers and extortion artists. A tremendous character, brilliantly acted by Sirico. RIP.

[@jamesscully4714]

Fantastic analysis!

[@kalahauoli355]

Acted? Heh.

[@Athetos861]

What he did to that old lady was horrible but also funny

[@ososkid]

Is Paulie greedy or is he cheap? I think he lacks a certain ambition you see in the truly greedy. Not that he wouldn’t take as much as he possibly could and maybe there’s no a whole lot of difference

[@wyldhowl2821]

Paulie is one of my favourite characters. He's as belligerent as he is superstitious. He's too bitter and resentful to ever keep on an even keel. You do not want to cross the guy though, because aside from being conniving, no matter how advanced he is in years, he is still enough of a hotheaded brute that he would kill you for a little bit of money of a petty disagreement, if he thought he could get away with it.

[@thingfish6194]

Not sure if this has been brought up, but I believe when Tony sees Paulie in his hotel room laughing like a child, he recognizes a sense of childlike mentality in Paulie.

[@OwenAllRound]

a reminder of AJ no doubt.

[@Baresi-Unico-Capitano]

Actually it is yet another snippet of resentful Tony seeing someone else just content even if was just enjoying the television. Tony had a habit of ruining the mood just when he wanted to for no reason whatsoever. Like the Sunday dinner with Janice, Bobby and their kids. Instead of being happy seeing his sister mending herself of her anger, he worked her up just to see her lose her cool. He had absolutely no interest in Harpo, and you see him laughing as he walks out of the house post making his sister lose it. Usually when he would go thru these moods, he would always follow thru with doing something terrible. But I think maybe just maybe the therapy had unknowingly helped him not to kill someone just because he suddenly didn't like him talking. Tony for one loved to talk, and despite talking the entire time on the trip, suddenly a switch went off in his head, and he seemed to want to make any excuse to kill Paulie. Even seeing him enjoying television was making him upset.

[@thingfish6194]

@@Baresi-Unico-Capitano think about when he sees AJ laughing at his computer

[@Baresi-Unico-Capitano]

@@thingfish6194 Did he react in a disgusted way then as well?

[@OwenAllRound]

@@thingfish6194 fact

[@brianNJwatson]

There is nothing worse than looking forward to a trip with someone who ends up annoying you just by breathing. This episode is a masterpiece example.

[@johnaustin209]

And yet you don't have the balls to say NO.

[@JKaiserable]

@@johnaustin209 you don’t always know how annoying you find someone until you are living with them and exclusively hanging out with them.

[@johnaustin209]

@@JKaiserable Right. And you still can't say no? Grow a pair.

[@nattylight9494]

Audiences were begging Tony to kill Paulie?? Oh hell nah man

[@italiancapo7]

Right! Audience was begging Tony not to kill Paulie!

[@Sam-mw4lh]

@@italiancapo7 Watching this scene was so tense I was so relieved when it was over

[@Nathan-jt8zt]

Nah Paulie was a dick. Source of problems more than anything

[@stephenstuckey]

I was. I disliked Paulie. He was a moron.

[@kainlives7958]

@@Nathan-jt8ztI’ll never understand how people can take Christophuh or Paulie’s side over Tony seeing as they’re both bigger scumbags with less morals than T who were more petty

[@JRRALLS]

Paulie would have died if he had admitted anything on the boat. It's such a great scene because both characters know the other one knows they know that they know that....

[@HowardMoon56]

lol exactly!

[@Luke101]

Pauly was physically superior to Tony at this time and had his guard up. He would have put up a hell of a fight and could have easily killed Tone as well

[@hugeiftrue4224]

I love that probably the biggest reason for his survival was that Tony Sirico told the show runners his character was never allowed to rat to the police.

[@Yourballix]

What had that got to do with him not being murdered

[@hugeiftrue4224]

@@Yourballix I always took the view in this episode that the fact that Paulie won’t admit it was him who was ratting to Johnny Sack meant that Tony made the calculation that (even if Paulie was a liability) he couldn’t afford to lose anymore of the old guard mobsters who don’t rat. The theme comes up a couple of times that the new generation of gangstas are untrustworthy and that the days are gone when soldiers would do time for their boss instead of ratting them out. The fact that Paulie isn’t a great earner or a great friend becomes irrelevant when Tony realises he’ll never crack him on the Johnny Sack thing, so he gives up and decides that the pros outweigh the cons. That’s just my take 🤙

[@guins99]

@@Yourballix duh…

[@Yourballix]

@@guins99 u do realise very few of the murders in sopranos were informers. So what’s your point duhhhhh

[@andrewreisinger6860]

I still think Paulie had a hand in Tony's eventual death. Blabbing where Tony would be going with his family for dinner, or letting it be known who would know (A.J.'s girlfriend). Paulie had taken an interest in her "stems" (legs).

[@Trebliw8]

i disagree that Paulie's loneliness made him more of a target for the feds. If anything, it was a positive. Many mafia members have flipped in order to protect their family i.e) Carlo flipping because the feds caught his son on a drug charge

[@logan-rd4rb]

Tony Sirico in real life did have children but abandoned them, possibly Paulie too

[@jackolini]

@@logan-rd4rb They make it clear Paulie doesn't have children. He had no sympathy for Ralph's kid when he got shot with the arrow. Tony says ,"He doesn't have children so he doesn't understand".

[@jaredhummel9687]

ur right. i think theyd turn the cheek on paulie. theyd look at him and think what does he even have to lose. no family, no kids, no will to live, no enjoyment out of anything. the feds dont want a guy like that they wanted a guy like puss.

[@StevenEatsAlone]

I don’t think anyone stabs at their plate better than Tony

[@mysteryjunkie9808]

The actor actually said he added the fact Tony plays with his food. He does it multiple times throughout the series

[@detectiverichard8221]

@@mysteryjunkie9808 Tony is also fidgety. He gets offended when the councler at AJs school suggests AJ might have ADD because he fidgets at school. It was personal to him.

[@madmikemackas]

🤣🤣🤣 true

[@billp4]

especially under pressure.

[@user-vk9kx5nh3j]

@@mysteryjunkie9808 Yeah I think it was largely so that James Gandolfini didn't have to be constantly eating whilst filming, as if they had to reshoot scenes he'd end up eating too much. So Tony will be playing w his food instead of actually eating it

[@rickyandreou]

Paulie may not have been the brightest gangster around, but he always had good mob instincts when death was on the line. He saw through Tony's attempts to put him at ease, as he knew that if he admitted to telling Johnny about the joke that he was 100% a dead man

[@ogpk3]

exactly he knows when to shut up. thats why he survived so long

[@vampiresquid]

Never go against a Sicilian when death is on the line! (Though Pauli wasn't Sicilian)

[@Geoman2123]

If I was Tony, I’d be offended at the fact that Paulie lied to me, and could make me think what else is he lying about

[@IrishYobbo07]

​@@vampiresquidStill a relevant quote but

[@godfather4377]

The biggest mistake Tony ever made was not killing him. Remember in Tony’s dream he kills Paulie. Why? His subconscious told him you better kill him before he kills you. This scene gives Paulie all the motive to not be loyal to Tony and have him killed in the end. Paulie wasn’t intelligent but was street smart and knew how to play the mob life. It’s why he is basically the only one that survives.

[@fardrives]

Interesting theory, maybe it was Paulie in the end who whacked Tony...edit: or it was accidentally paulie's fault. And it was ny who got him killed

[@godfather4377]

@@fardrives I believe it was along with Patsy. And New York too. I think Paulie and Patsy made a deal with New York (behind Tony's back), and they took him out. It wasn't New York alone, if Tony got clipped. They had no idea he'd be at Holsten's. Probably the only one that would know is Patsy. Meadow probably mention it to his son, who told Patsy. So he had the inside scoop to have him killed. Was Meadow indirectly responsible for Tony's death? I don't know what the deal was with her parallel parking, and her being the last one to enter, before we see the last shot of Tony.

[@billp4]

@@godfather4377 Some think A.J's girlfriend at the time told the NY guys they would be at Holsten's.

[@godfather4377]

@@billp4 Yeah, I've heard that theory and of course its plausible. I think the purpose was they wanted MANY outlets to be possible in Tony's death. I think it was Patsy and Paulie, and David Chase reveals this in the dream of Pussy in the final episode of season 2. Chase wrote the episode. I think he decided a long time ago these two would be responsible for his death. The dream really is quite revealing, and this is the first episode we get of Patsy. And he happens to be in the dream, and Tony feels the need to apologize (something he'd never do in real life), knowing this is going to be a problem for him... His subconscious is struggling with this. Not because he feels bad, because he knows its going to be a big problem. Then afterwards, shortly, he blows himself up. A bit symbolic. The rest of the details may have changed later (I believe Johnny Sack at one point was also going to be part of Tony's death). I think Patsy and Paulie were still involved and Chase's plan of them being the ones involved never changed, since they're the only ones that survived in the end. All the major characters in the family were either dead or indicted.

[@brysjuan8008]

Ehhh I don’t think so but it is a good theory nonetheless. Paulie is too loyal to him and just the Soprano name In general I think. Hed never go thru with that. Interesting take tho

[@LFCzak6]

I think you’re wrong about the Cubans, I think that’s what makes Tony second guess about killing him cos he’s a capable guy and has balls which he sees

[@flightofthebumblebee9529]

Exactly. Plus Tony knows that if he attacked Paulie then Paulie would definitely fight back and it could end badly for Tony.

[@LFCzak6]

@@flightofthebumblebee9529 exactly he knew Paulie was talking to New York so why would he risk it he didn’t know how deep Paulie was with them, even tho he was valued very low in the pecking order by New York (Paulie)

[@dondajulah4168]

@@flightofthebumblebee9529 Yeah, I dont know why people think it would be an easy win for Tony. Sure, he would have the advantage, but at least a 20% chance that Tony isnt the one that returns on the boat if he tries to attack Paulie with the knife (probably closer to 1/3). No way that Tony is going to take that kind of risk when he could off him in a much safer way if he wanted to do so at another time.

[@flightofthebumblebee9529]

@@dondajulah4168 in all fairness, Paulie had legit reasons to be angry and upset with Tony when he began venting to Sack. Tony treated him like the ugly girl at the dance.

[@Leahh823]

Yes, that’s how I saw it too. He admired that he was still standing toe to toe with guys half his age.

[@victorsforza5578]

Paulie? I thought his name was Clarence... HEHHE

[@joerules829]

Heh Heh, you hear that Tony? He said “Paulie? I thought his name was Clarence… HEHHE” Heh Heh.

[@tonythetiger1600]

Paulie was a loyal capo but annoying af n he wasn't a great earner n Tony knew he didn't kick up as much as he should . Jonny sac played Clarence walnuts like a fiddle he knew paulue was a petty guy

[@gstacks814]

uhheh uhheh..its like you got a tic or something...

[@keithx8734]

I could actually hear the laugh😅😂

[@NebMunb]

His mudda named him Clarence

[@navyguyinva]

In "Funhouse", the answer to Sil's "Our true enemy has yet to reveal himself", is Paulie. Also in "Funhouse", T & Paulie's card game scene mimics their indoor sit-down in "Made in America" (when T's hand simulates a gun). Chase's opus will never, ever be topped.

[@victorsforza5578]

George Brett ovah here . Heehe

[@mrunderhill40]

I think the real answer is Tony being his own worse enemy.

[@froggyluv]

It was Paulie and Patsy plotting against Tony at the very end -you can see them having conversations which Chase wont let us hear except "You'll be allright". Patsy already hated tony for killing his Brother and then trying to force him to say he moved past that. Butchie in NY wanted both bosses gone Phil & Tony, and to "decapitate the leadership" but "leave middle management" -a perfect time for Paulie who knows Tony's already thinking about killing him -to flip and make his move. Patsy had also moved in close to the Soprano family with his son dating Meadow and devilishly enjoying Tony having to "serve him" drinks now at his home. Patsy's son would have also known what restaurant Meadow & Family were going to the night of Made in America -its all in there.

[@Buugzy]

That’s another good theory, only I doubt Patsys son knew he might have been being used.

[@n.b.l.5709]

It was a butchie patsy move but also paulie was in on it...

[@saltyabcdef3202]

@@Buugzy It would be too risky from him to know he was being used but he was being used nonetheless. Patsy could see opportunities when they arose.

[@saltyabcdef3202]

Definitely Patsy, Paulie and NY.

[@hansschnee4623]

It's just one opportunity. If this is true it's weird that they waited for the dinner situation. Pauli knew Tonys Safe House. Plus patsy was in the car in the moment sil was shot and the scene doesn't show that these guys don't try to shoot patsy. Patsy fires back and there's no sign for something like this is a scam. Plus patsy's brother died 4 or 5 seasons before and there wasn't a sign for patsy does something, it's just projection. Kill tony now, when there's perfect opportunity to be number 3 or something like that (sil /bobby dead, Pauli is infantil, his son is with meadow) wouldn't be that smart. That Pauli is okay with Tony killed is maybe not fully unpossible, but there are just no real signs for it.

[@dr3dg352]

Appreciate your analysis as always! I do have a dissenting opinion with one thing, however. During the meeting with the Mexican gang, I don't think Tony was irritated with Paulie at all, but actually impressed with his Furio-like loyalty and fearlessness. I feel like that loyalty is another reason Tony didn't go through with it.

[@TheBigdaddy64]

They were Cuban not Mexican.

[@dr3dg352]

@@TheBigdaddy64 derp, my bad! The video said Mexican and it threw me off. x)

[@jamiepasquariello2652]

I mean Tony literally said "you should of seen him out there". He was thoroughly impressed. I'd love to have a Paulie by my side if I was a boss

[@AgentRafa]

@@dr3dg352 I think your analysis is spot on, and I can't understand how "Sopranos theories" can't see that.

[@johnk.7523]

I agree I was under the impression that Tony came to appreciate Paulie being at that meeting. ymmv

[@carlos64030]

Honestly, I would have been pissed had Tony clipped Paulie because Paulie is one of my favorites on the show.

[@lildoge7100]

Paulie's arc, much like Season 3, changed because of real-life content going in: Tony Sirico had back surgery that needed to be done, so he took more of a telephone role until around halfway in Season 4. With Season 3, Livia nearly fulfilled her duty as villain, but Nancy Marchand died. It's great to know the show still ended up being as great as it did; hard work really pays off.

[@killolot]

What arc? He did a few years in the military, a couple more in the can. And there he is. Half a wise guy!

[@Jimmyjamsays....]

Paulie playing tough with the Cubans at that meet was one of the things that saved him. He told Beansie how impressed he was with the way he handled it.

[@mikecegielski8060]

A couple of things saved Paulie's life. The way Paulie rolled up on those Cuban gangsters impressed Tony. Also, Paulie buying the espresso machine for his family. Tony telling Carmela the reason we live like this is cause of guys like Paulie was Tony's affirmation he wouldn't kill Paulie.

[@jonathansack6827]

No

[@zacksheehan2346]

Tony hated that. They were supposed to be laying low and he’s causing drama

[@colinmagnier1232]

Standing up to them guys saved his life

[@nicholasroberts7891]

I agree with most of this except Tony knowing he couldn't murder Paulie. Tony murdered Ralph over personal issues and it wasnt business. Tony was actually extremely unprofessional throughout the series. He actually was NOT a good boss he promoted Gigi over Ralphie which was personal as Gigi was clearly incompetent. Tony's severe anxiety always made him impulsive and overly cynical.

[@benjackson91]

Gigi wasn’t incompetent he just wasn’t right for that crew

[@LordTalax]

Gigi was a great family member. He couldn't trust the crew (and specifically Ralphie) so he made Gigi capo to watch them and keep them in line.

[@nicholasroberts7891]

@@LordTalax no Gigi was a low earner and his incompetence on numerous levels was displayed. The Philly Parisi hit, he holds the gun too close to his ear. He gets chastised by Tony over and over for not being able to control Ralphie. Hell Ralphie used to mock him for his incompetence rjght to his face. He was also criticized for being incompetent with poor judgement by both Junior and Ralphie for assigning Bobby Bacala Sr to the Mustang Sally hit, which was a complete mess from beginning to end.

[@chardiemacdennis7218]

@@nicholasroberts7891 exactly

[@toddpick8007]

Gigi wasn't incomepetant, its made clear hes a good earner and hes respected, he just wasn't 'respected' with the Aprille crew. Promoting Gigi isnt a terrible move a. He wants his guy in there to keep an eye on that crew and b. it keeps ralph (a clear rival) from advancing. As for being a bad boss, its debatable, he was certainly overly sensitive and emotional in situations, he had way to many character flaws among those degenerate gambling being the most serious. Id actually put him as a middle of the road boss, he made some smart/good decisions and any bad decision he made didnt really come back to bite him much.

[@ibrown3KC]

It's not loneliness that makes someone crack and rat--they have nothing but themselves to lose. Like Vin Makazian said way back in Season 1 regarding Pussy, it's guys like him with families and children to care for that are perfect targets for the Feds. Not a lonely, life-long soldier who's only family--especially now that his mother/aunt is dead--is his mafia family.

[@CursedMusicbox333]

Paulie held it together pretty well on the boat while Tony was trying to get him to admit he was the one that started that crap between Johnny and Ralphie. But Tony still knew he was lying.

[@Spooky_515]

He knew but there was still that one percent of him that wanted to believe otherwise. If not he would’ve whacked him

[@kdi9049]

I love how he was acting like he was sea sick but really scared for his life lmao

[@jttank5578]

A great scene for sure

[@HowardMoon56]

Hey can anybody tell me how was Tony sure that Paulie told the joke? I can't quite remember. I know that Ralph figured it out because of Little Pauilie, but he never told Tony about that. Was Tony just eliminating all the people from that meeting and came to the conclusion like Ralph did, or did somebody tell him it was Paulie?

[@Spooky_515]

@@HowardMoon56 no one told him, he was sure of it but couldn’t prove it. There’s never a seen of him breaking down the exact reasoning but if I recall him and sill talk about keeping him in the dark on some things because they assume Johnny sack is working him

[@mecka9389]

I thought married people with kids were more target for feds since they won’t see them if they get time ?

[@jordanl1911]

you thought right. He definitely misread that part

[@flightofthebumblebee9529]

I think part of the reason why he didn't was because Paulie stood his ground and refused to admit he told John about the joke, and also because he knows how tough Paulie is and that Paulie would've NEVER gone down without a fight.

[@Iluvkelly]

this would make sense too showing paulie wouldn’t be the type to hand over information to the feds if he was caught

[@saltyabcdef3202]

People often overlook this. Part of Tony's hesitation to whack Paulie is that it's not a guarantee that he will come out on top. Paulie was one tough SOB.

[@eyeheartsushi2212]

@@saltyabcdef3202 Seriously Tony would have needed to catch Paulie way off guard to have a chance at whacking him.

[@shoazdon7000]

@@eyeheartsushi2212especially without a gun, it would have been really difficult

[@RPKGameVids]

Seeing Tony and Paulie fight would've been crazy, it totally would be an epic battle.

[@purge2--u--nite342]

I watch this series every year. It's relevant to this day. It covers so many topics that regular people can relate and has nothing to do with Mobb stuff.

[@lostinyourways]

For real, mandatory to watch this once a year for how much of a classic gem it is.

[@johnv6806]

The wire is better.

[@tyleryurasits9352]

"audiences begging Tony to kill Paulie".... Not this audience member

[@Grigsy]

Paulie knew how close he was. Tony also he over played his hand a bit too many times by killing off so many of his captains (Ralph, Chris, Pussy, Mikey, Richie, etc.). He was a hot head and had limited leadership abilities (didn't have the makings of a varsity athlete). The point of the show is that he thought he was better than he actually was. He thought he was rich, smart, strong, etc. In reality he couldn't have survived in the New York World. He was New Jersey rich, New Jersey smart, and smart for someone who grew up on those streets. He was the smartest one among a group of morons. He's the C student among a group of dropouts.

[@YOBLACKHOMIE1]

Dam

[@ggw1776]

The Shah of Iran wrote this comment

[@MrJchris97]

Facts

[@s.g.557]

Richie was killed by Janice but otherwise spot on.

[@velveetaslingshot]

Nah. Tony was badass in season 1 and 2. But something has to happen, so the writers made him look worse so the plot could move forward. But him stepping aside so Junior could hold the reins was an excellent move. And Tony did have the respect of New York period. If he wasnt a good boss, they would have played him out.

[@DomozoveoGZ]

I think Paulie was clearly happier than Tony, which didn't help matters at all. Tony hates seeing other people less miserable than himself, and seeing someone who doesn't have anything while Tony has the world by the balls happy clearly influenced him wanting to whack Paulie.

[@Gigibaby88]

Yeah the whole "happy wanderer" thing

[@Edoric85]

I interpreted Tony's desire to get rid of Paulie because Paulie was just a constant annoyance now in Tony's life. He disliked his mannerisms, the fact he does talk more than he should, and also because Tony might see some of the worst parts of Paulie in himself as well. Also, Tony ultimately didn't care that John heard the Ginny joke, but that it caused him so much mental anguish to deal with that situation over a stupid joke. He figured Paulie talked and that annoyed him the most.

[@cosmicskates7721]

Your observation that T could possibly see the worst parts of Paulie in himself, I feel the same way. Plus, imo they're total Bopsy Twins in those casual shirts they're wearing @ 3:54 lol so Tony could be extra pissy about that too since most all wise guys are super conscious about the clothes they sport? and I'm no fashion horse but I honest to god believe Tony wouldn't have been so irritable if he had opted to jazz up his resort wardrobe as a major component to uplift themselves while stressin' out down there! 🌴 idk

[@iswee119]

the same reason that he ended up killing Christopher

[@babobereta]

Paulie also reflects his mother’s behavior (which we later learn isn’t his biological mother, but actually aunt who still raised him) which plays into the theme of the show, same way Tony becomes like his mother as time goes on. When Paulie’s mom has a problem of not having friends in her retirement home where she lives, Paulie goes there to talk with some woman working there and she tells him that his mom is a tattletale and rats on others for every small infraction and that is why other girls don’t like her. Paulie is also a tattletale, he annoys everybody because he talks too much, but also was having secret meetings with John Sack and gave him information about Tony and his crew, most famously that mole joke which turned into a massive problem. Obviously Paulie was doing this thinking about his interest and how it would be a good thing for him to have good realtionship with NY, but of course we know he was played like a puppet by John who stroked his ego and just let him do what he loves most; talking. Tony was right to be worried about him, Paulie’s big mouth already caused him problems in the past and I think it’s very plausible that Paulie could betray Tony in the end to NY, especially knowing Tony was seriously contemplating killing him

[@nicholasmarzigliano7616]

There are a few points that you have wrong. Tony was actually impressed with the way Paulie handled the Mexican gangsters. Paulie was able to get a better deal than they proposed. Also later on that evening Beansie told Tony how much he loved him and was loyal to him despite everything. These 2 factors played into Tony sparing his life on the boat.

[@jonmurphy4889]

Rest in Peace Tony Sirico!!!

[@jimsmith8993]

I didn't think there was a chance in hell that Pauly was making it back from that boat ride

[@peteyprimo7173]

Obviously he was jealous that Paulie won the pull-up contest in the army 3 years in a row . That beautiful definition . He just couldn’t take it.

[@dstyer6128]

Never forget, The wire room that Phil Leotardo used was a barber shop, and shortly after we see the barber shop we see Paulie walking into the safehouse with a box of barber scissors, that scene is there for a reason.

[@hotwheel6663]

Paulie was a survivor and smarter than people give him credit for.

[@judyhopps9380]

there's the line he mentions about "going down to the mattresses when the gambinos were at it"? or something. I like it because it shows though he's a goofball, he's also a killer, and has the tenacity to make it.

[@andrewgilmore1443]

Tony was in a narcissistic spiral toward the end of the Sopranos. He essentially lived up to Junior’s inherent criticism, “he never had the makings of a varsity athlete.” His tenure as boss played out that way despite his ambition. He was a terrible leader. He was indecisive, disloyal, narcissistic, self loathing and self absorbed. He went from paralyzing depression and anxiety, to becoming his mother and being completely negative. Towards the end he did this, almost killing Paulie; he aided Christopher in his addiction by forcing a drink on him; he turned his back on Vito; he essentially lost his wife.

[@j-555]

for sure. it's disappointing. It would have been an interesting arc if he went the other way, improving through therapy and by the end is healthier and more competent, which would have been conflicting for Melfi because she'd be responsible for creating a smarter more balanced criminal. But if the therapy had been truly successful, Tony would eventually conclude that he cannot live as a criminal and be happy. However the show is about someone who never changes. Oh well.

[@Ultrajamz]

Vito turned his back many times

[@brendanmuller7301]

To add to your vid I'd say the reason tony spared paulie was because he knew he wouldn't rat after denying telling the joke. Tony knew paulie knew who told the joke to Johnny but paulie didn't cave despite it also being clear tony took him out there to kill him. It showed tony that paulie wouldn't cave under pressure if he was picked up by the cops so his excuse to kill paulie was gone

[@cyberpimp29]

A few episodes later Tony is in a safe house sleeping with an AK-47. Paulie - single and without other obligations is there, rifle in a hand - a soldier. Thats the way Paulie wanted to see himself and Tony as a general. As I watched that episode I was thinking Tony was quite happy he didnt kill him on the boat.

[@hlf_coder6272]

How could any fan want them to kill off Paulie in the second to the last season? Maybe in one of the last episodes like Chris or something, but Paulie made the show 100 times better. He, Tony, Christoper and Sil were the gangster staples I think.

[@JDX28]

The Soprano’s Despicable Hall of Infamy: - Livia - Richie Aprile - Janice - Paulie - Ralph C.

[@johnroscoe2406]

What no Jackie Aprile?

[@joshuafult84]

How could you leave Tony off the list Lmao

[@Jay-n262]

I was surprised to see Paulie survive that deep sea fishing trip.

[@thesupervisor3270]

They wasn’t “Mexican gang members” they was Cubans 🇨🇺 🙄

[@thewitbew6042]

mexicans and cubans sound so different it’s so easy to differentiate but i guess it’s all the same to english speakers

[@optimaldefiance4605]

No it's that this guy is probably a Jill Biden and thinks all s+p+i+c+s Hispanics are tacos 🌮🌮🌮🌮 lol I'm Cuban and Mexican pops from Gitmo Guantanamo de Cuba and moms from Guadalajara Mexico Grew up on Cuban sandwiches pernil and pozole and chilaquiles But overall Pure Kino's content is good 👍 😊

[@davidnacey7281]

Paulie was brought into the family by Tony's father. Paulie and Uncle Junior were always going to get a pass from Tony no matter what. Junior even shot Tony (by "accident"), and earlier tried to have Tony assassinated at the behest of Tony's own mother, and still he got to live, as did his mother. Tony is an accidental boss. Paulie would never be a boss. Silvio never wanted to be a boss. He took over by sheer default. Tony has learned enough from his father and from Jackie to be an effective leader in New Jersey, as far as that goes, but it is obvious that Tony is nostalgic about his childhood, as his therapy and dreams have shown. Tony seems to want to nickel and dime his Jersey operation. He's happy with garbage routes, loan sharking, shipping stolen cars to Italy, the Bada Bing, busting out mall stores, and milking the Esplanade. He doesn't have the vision of the New York bosses. It's also clear that New York was pushing into New Jersey, and while Tony negotiated around the edges, he knew he didn't have the money to buy the muscle to keep New York out. He had to share the Esplanade, the Freylinghausen project, had to watch Johnny Sack move into a house in town. New York treated New Jersey like a "pygmy thing", like a neighborhood, like a natural extension of New York. Tony might have considered killing Paulie, but he might have been afraid of what New York could have done about it.

[@dennisparker3467]

Perfectly put my friend

[@JT-gi8rx]

I’d tend to agree, the only thing that doesn’t fit is if NJ was so outclassed by the NY mob, how did their war seemingly end in a stalemate? If not for the implied ending, it would’ve looked like NJ had won, with the killing of Phil Leotardo. Maybe, if anything, that was a fault of the writing, as one would assume the NY mob would’ve obliterated the NJ mob with far fewer significant casualties.

[@sskspartan]

​@@JT-gi8rx well for one we only see one of the New York families, they didn't even need the rest to take on the whole of Jersey

[@centurion8446]

​@@JT-gi8rx it's really more a case of NJ being in hiding and Butchie deciding to oust Phil Leotardo for being emotional and unprofessional rather than a stalemate as such. With Sil in a coma the NJ operation in all bit destroyed

[@centurion8446]

@@hankhill7208 No I think it was Tony's cousin killing his brother that grated at Phil and not so much the prison time as such (seems to be alluded to at the family get together when he's looking up at the he picture thoughtfully after expressing irritation at family being called Leotardo and not Leonardo by customs offficer back in the day), there was no catharsis as he wasn't able to torture Tony B.

[@shytguy]

Tony was actually impressed with how Paulie handled himself with the Hispanics. Not annoyed.

[@ppiorkowski1502]

#R TJR I was just literally coming on here to say the exact same thing and as soon as I went to the comment section your comment was right in front of me. What's even crazier is that your comment isn't even at the top for it to be the first one I see?!?! I thought that was really strange because it looks like it's somewhere in the middle of all the comments..... But this kid is getting a lot of stuff wrong. Like there is NO WAY the fans WANTED to see Tony kill Paulie.

[@Ed-zp2xo]

I think you misread Paulie and Tony during the meeting with the Latinos. Tony smiles at the end because he's impressed by Paulie, who, despite his old age and being outnumbered, is ready to go for it. The Latin guy definitely was trying to intimidate Tony with all those guys too so having Paulie there was the perfect counterbalance

[@MadMetsFan]

I think one of the things that irritated Tony about Paulie's "remember when..." conversations is that it reminds Tony that Paulie probably had more quality time with his father than he did (since Tony inherited Paulie back when his father ran the crew.) Also good businesses do what they can to keep good people but sometimes good people can be difficult people and I think as Tony became more selfish and self-centered about how he ran the business I think he wanted to put less and less time into managing people. Paulie did do things to remind Tony why he should keep him around (for example Paulie's balls of steel about confronting all those Cubans by himself.)

[@Buford_T_Justice1]

My favorite Paulie scene is when the gang had a party for him when he got out of jail and he gets all emotional about “his song”. Then Bobby is all like “Why tf is this his song?!!” Hilarious

[@DizzyDaDon]

Hahahahaha 😭 Bobby’s delivery and timing was hilarious

[@calumdowbigginglew3205]

I love that scene so much

[@yourmum69_420]

the up in the club edit of that scene is great

[@blahblahblah9844]

"He played both sides of the Washington bridge." That line belongs in the Sopranos. I'm subscribed to this channel from that line alone!

[@gemeu1129]

“Local police department” *shows the FBI 😂

[@mandolinman2006]

I think Tony was smart not to. Things were heating up with Phil, so he needed as many people on his side as possible. If he had've gone after Paulie, they'd realize Tony had gone full Captain Ahab. Plus, Paulie was saved by Phil since Phil probably knew about Pauly going to Johnny.

[@PhoenixDawnX77]

Nah, Tony broke any trust with Paulie after that and although he might not have gone to aiding Johnny Sacs, he did start dressing a bit upper and started setting the stage for Tony's demise. The boat trip definitely got Tony killed.

[@rmh941]

I think you make a good point here. It's highly likely Paulie set up the final hit on Tony or at least played a major part in it. Paulie was probably aware of Tony's paranoia of him. Paulie sees Tony being more unpredictable as things go on. I think he sees at that point that it's about making the first move since it's no longer a matter of if with him and tony, it's a matter of when.

[@mandolinman2006]

@@rmh941 I believe he was well aware Tony was about to kill him that day on the boat.

[@godfather4377]

Nope. Tony was stupid to keep Paulie along for this long. Tony 100% screwed up. He one, knows Paulie told the joke (he can't be trusted). Two, Tony HAD to know Paulie felt threaten, it was obvious. So after this confrontation, insulting and belittling Paulie. It was NOT GOING TO SIT WELL with a psychopath like Paulie. He's already proven his loyalty is faulty. And just alienated him over this. So why would Paulie, going forward, be loyal to Tony? He wouldn't. We know Paulie knows he was close to being clipped and could be in the future. And I believe he along with Patsy had Tony killed. And I think this scene largely was the reason why. That one more little slip up or something he does Tony doesn't like, he's gone. Paulie may not be intelligent, but he has a great sense for the street life and has been in it way too long. Tony seriously underestimated Paulie and what he's capable of.

[@PhoenixDawnX77]

"Our true enemy has yet to reveal himself"- Silvio Dante And although he sees he has to shoot Paulie, drags a half loyal, light earner around, then threatens his life and pretends that boat trip didn't mean anything, when you are pressing a point of contention over and over and being insulting about a tick (everyone knows you're a hothead who kills on a whim). So Paulie grabs Patsi, who contacts NY to take you out first. Bottomline

[@JohnnyScumbagg]

1:57 “audiences were begging Tony to kill Paulie” Where tf did u get this from? They absolutely were not- most would’ve been outraged if he killed Paulie

[@zombiefulci3301]

Got that right, Paulie was a pillar of the family and a comic relief for fans, it would have been an outrage if he was killed and Tony would have looked like a real malevolent asshole. The show would have taken an even bleaker path as well.

[@thallus23]

I remember this episode. If Tony did try to kill Paulie, he wasn’t going quietly 🔪🔪

[@mysteryjunkie9808]

Been a decent fight.

[@littlekingtrashmouth9219]

He could barely fight that tub of guts Bobby. No way he’s taking Paulie

[@faisalkamal4319]

Paulie is never quiet

[@thallus23]

@@faisalkamal4319 😂😂facts

[@benjaminprince6424]

@@littlekingtrashmouth9219 Ohhhh! He slipped on the carpet!

[@mlgfin]

I need to rewatch this show lmao. I had no idea that Tony wanted to game end Paulie. Tbf I usually play games while watching the show.

[@TheLoyalOfficer]

Good summary of the relationship. I think Tony also didn't kill Paulie because he could not stomach it, not unless absolutely, positively sure. Look at what happened to Christopher - only AFTER he admitted to Tony that he would fail a blood test did Tony take him out.

[@braedenh6858]

Tony only ever killed or considered killing members of his own family - mafia or blood - with very few exceptions. I always thought that was a way for David Chase to lampshade Tony's ineptitude as a boss. Paulie was just another in a long line of allies and partners Tony killed or wanted to kill. Tony never had any big ideas or ambitions as a boss. He didn't create anything. He wasn't a great leader. He was a tough guy bully whose main skill was a knack for survival and avoiding the justice system. His money came from enterprises he neither created or developed, but simply maintained. He was fighting to keep what he had inherited but was being gradually elbowed out by the New York families. He spent the show bullying the local citizenry, businesses, and small-time hoods, killing his allies, and avoiding the real big fish. Paulie was shown to have some weaknesses in his character, but he had always been loyal to Tony. A leader dealing with a subordinate like that should provide incentives to remain loyal and try to understand why the loyalty was faltering. Tony was not free of guilt. But Tony being Tony, his solution was always to kill anyone who was not unfalteringly loyal to him or could potentially cause him an issue. It didn't matter who it was: Christopher, Tony B, Adriana, Paulie. It didn't matter. He would've killed Meadow if she had crossed him.

[@macwyll]

As the Boss, Tony was not expected to create or earn, but I agree he was supposed to lead. I saw him exhibit leadership many times in the series though

[@MrJchris97]

I agree with everything you said. Except I don’t think he would hurt his kids. Maybe AJ lol

[@dragos-ioancraciun9810]

Spot on

[@yourmum69_420]

he would never hurt Meadow.

[@jj7546]

Paulie was not always loyal to Tony he tried to switch families wtf are you saying

[@luskvideoproductions869]

This convo below has really helped flesh out the Paulie Walnuts "betrayal" storyline, and its subtilty in how it plays out it just another great example of great scriptwriting and acting, and how superior a TV show The Sopranos was. I'm actually glad Paulie was at least smart enuf to know that Tony knew it was him that blabbed to Johnny Sack, and that he had enuf sense to not confess and give Tony a reason to wack him right then and there. And for Tony using the interrogation as a test to see if Paulie could keep his trap shut going forward. Great video, really enjoyed the analysis.

[@gfx2943]

I think tbh Tony was just annoyed by the spirit of Paulie. Paulie is the happy wanderer who became a made man. He is Davie but with a mafioso pass and a harder history. Watching Paulie be Paulie aggravated Tony. Much more than the actual deeds Paulie was doing - it was the HEH HEH attitude that drove Tony over the edge. Yet, Tonys loyalty to his dad kept Paulie alive.

[@matthewdunphy8524]

You need a video on who ordered the hit on Tony at the end of the series (assuming he was killed).

[@Thatguy-bz7dl]

Literally just finished the show yesterday, I thought I was wrong in thinking Tony was considering doing this

[@InfamousJJ420]

I thought it was obvious since it was so tense like Tony was interrogating him, then it cuts to the knife

[@Gigibaby88]

@@InfamousJJ420 it was extremely obvious

[@BIGH23]

RIP Paulie Walnuts.

[@EDW.5]

paulie was one of my favorite characters in the show.

[@nickk7425]

Paulie was a total liability because of being overly emotional and having a bad temper. He literally created the whole debacle with the Russian, and you could argue started the NJ NY war by telling Jonny Sack about the joke Ralphie made about his wife. Its no surprise at all that Tony did consider whacking him....

[@peteyprimo7173]

He also started the beef with Johnny Sack

[@robweissman5952]

The hippy kid mysteriously drowning sort of terrifies me about Paulie.

[@edweirdmitchell3095]

I am the FBI agent carrying the rock. 😆😆

[@creestone8497]

“The audience was begging for, Tony, to kill, Pauly”? Pauly, was one of my favorites. I felt like, Tony, was a real sum bag for even considering the notion

[@shawncdonnelly]

Great video. But you left out the most important detail: Tony Sirico "jokingly" threatened to punish any writer who killed off his character.

[@F_wyatt]

Paulie was always Tony's number one soldier I was disgusted that he was even contemplating murdering him

[@littlekingtrashmouth9219]

Tony was gonna give Paulie a brogan adjustment

[@LuckyDT]

"Audiences were begging to see Tony kill Paulie" I think that's a huge stretch to say. This wasn't a popular sentiment then or now.

[@BigEvan96]

Seems to be popular now. Look at all the comments. They're mixed. I think Tony made a mistake whacking Ralph and letting Paulie go. What did Tony gain from killing Ralph? Nothing. He lost more in that fit of emotional rage. What would he gain by whacking Paulie? The world. He loses a complainer, a loudmouth (low-key rat) and one of the lowest earners in the crew. Less harm done whacking Paulie than Ralph.

[@BigEvan96]

@@themoonisaharshmistress4847 Yeah but I've also heard the opposite about killers. They do harm to animals.

[@baronvoncrags771]

Paulie not having a wife or kids makes him less of a liability

[@meekmozart5216]

Just want to say I love everyone’s theories & opinions (some a little over the top but I get them😂) I re-watch the series @ least twice a year & my friends & I constantly @ the drop of a dime act out random scenes…IMO the greatest t.v series of all time….may all of you have a blessed new year & keep watching the sopranos again & again…I know I will 🙏🏾🤌🏾❤️💯

[@JohnnyDeMarco-jp8vb]

“Most Loyal Capo’s?” Paulie was a Capitano, Not a Capo!

[@brandisification]

i still don't get WHY Paulie was the last one standing.. i think he might have set up the final hit.. just a theory.. still developing

[@Anita_Backrub]

That’s how I always saw it.

[@littlekingtrashmouth9219]

Not a rat. Maybe a traitor?

[@blackvillain4479]

He lived because it's his personal hell in a way. All of his compatriots are now gone and now his to deal with everything old and all alone. I think its fitting because he was the quintessential "gangster" he simply played the game like but luck was on his side and thats not to say paulie didn't good calls of his own. Everyone focus on his faults and theres a lot of then but never point out the things he did right. Paulies biggest breaks is that no one ever had proof of him doing anything.

[@joshuafult84]

I don't think he set it up but I think he definitely was informed it was gonna happen and decided not to warn Tony.

[@JacobSmith-n7k]

I think the best part about The Sopranos is that all of the gangsters knew that they were in a bygone era. They referenced the old times, they loved the old gangster movies, and they all started in the height of the Mafia's control, and lived long enough that they knew that they no longer held the control that their fathers and grandfathers did. They could see that they had the money from their forefathers, but no longer owned hotels, built cities, or owned police departments. When their grandfathers would get arrested, they laughed because they owned the mayors, judges, and senators. Now they fear being arrested by a local cop.

[@AK13133]

I kinda feel like Pauline not having any family or close ties outside of the Soprano was a good thing as far as Tony would be concerned. Pretty much all the rats we see is due to a guys kids doing something stupid and the cops making the dad flip to save his kids. Or the guy goes into business for themselves due to family issues and needing the money like Pussy and Carlo. Him only having his mob family is really his best attribute when it comes to what he offers Tony. But all other points are valid which makes him a very interesting case study

[@fjccommish]

Because Paulie had used the restroom before coming on the boat. Paulie's right shoelace was soaked with piss, which he was dragging on the deck of Tony's boat.

[@eg4325]

fans were begging tony to kill paulie lol wtf

[@Thermalburn]

Not sure why this is my recommended videos, but now I have the urge to go watch the Sopranos again...for like the 5th time...

[@michaelchristopher3227]

They were Cuban gangsters not Mexican.

[@Seventeen76]

I think that Paulie not fessing up to the Jennie Sac joke made Tony feel better that he wouldn't fold under questioning from the Feds.

[@thepirateboyeternally9917]

This storyline also coincides with Paulie's possible knowledge of Tony's inevitable assassination, as well as other points that were tragically smeared in the movie.

[@BigEvan96]

He could have colluded with NY to have Tony whacked.

[@rockyaoki8929]

Tony: Paulie, remember when you told Johnny about Ralph's joke? Paulie: 😳

[@mozeyad4573]

“audiences were begging Tony to kill Paulie” bro what?! who’s audiences? i hope he’s one of your friends cause no one wanted Paulie dead

[@chinchilla415]

I totally wanted it. Loud-mouthing, psycho scumbag who wouldn't even be on friendly terms with his own. His joke about Chris' daughter was rotten.

[@ts9576]

Tony did the same thing having secretive meetings with Johnny sack when Carmine was boss. Not uncommon and not automatically shady but something to consider of course.

[@lofaz2973]

Tony had an Oedipus Complex. When he sees the photo of his dad it triggers him. Tony associates his dad and the past with Paulie and this is reinforced through the episode when Paulie goes on his ‘remember when’ tangents. Tony is struggling with good and evil, and killing the embodiment of his father would be a cleansing of the catalyst that made Tony evil. But he can’t. Has nothing to do with jokes or the feds.

[@ev1677]

I like this analysis, it's sub conscious. Tony doesn't realise this is what it is so it is rationalised by him as Paulie being an annoying big mouth.

[@briandavey1139]

There's no way you can kill a guy who won the chin up competition 3 weeks in a row.

[@brendanwalsh826]

I’m gonna hoof it back to KZbin main page, I gotta take a wicked sh*t..

[@thedooktroops5608]

John didn’t *really* want Paulie working for New York, he only let Paulie believe that was in the cards so that Paulie would continue on as his “inside man”, still funneling in information for as long as John needed it

[@Void7.4.14]

I always felt it was a couple of things: 1. He was a huge potential liability cause of his mouth and lack of awareness surrounding these things. He was from an era where they acted with near impunity and could "duke the guy a hundred" and get outta all kinds of stuff so he wasn't as cautious. And he was always a soldier til he got much older so he was never a lightening rod and never in the kind of position to be in as much danger as Tony hence his lack of rush to get some legit income and similar irresponsible things. 2. He had good reason to believe he wasn't trustworthy or as loyal as he let on. No real proof, but guys get killed for less. 3. Pity. Pauly's "remember when" and chat-up-anybody-about-anything personality was a clear sign that his best years were behind em, he was all alone, and he was a sad shell of who he'd been. He'd been a hero of Tony's so to see him like that probably hurt and made him seem more pathetic. It may have been a reminder of what Tony could have in store should he lose his family. I actually think him being alone and not having a wife or kids actually made him less likely to flip, not more. Beansie was spot on when he said that all he has is the guys and his image, there's almost no way he'd throw it all away like that. Especially not as an older guy with more road behind em than ahead. He was about as solid as they come with no real weaknesses as far as in's for the Feds beyond his lack of a W-2. Family and fear of being killed are the top reasons guys flip and pressure points used by the Feds. He simply had too much to lose by becoming a snitch and not enough to lose by going inside.

[@dondajulah4168]

That would be a couple a three things

[@PauliePizza]

I'm glad he didn't kill Paulie because Paulie's got the best name ever and he spells it right.

[@bryantaylor9874]

I love your analysis but I think you might have missed a huge clue to Paulie's state of mind vis-a-vis loyalty. It's obvious Paulie knew what might happen on that boat yet for some reason this guy who thinks of himself as a survivor, the kind of guy that would strike first if he felt his back was against the wall, more or less sat there and waited to see if Tony was going to kill him or not. The scene felt to me as if Paulie had accepted that Tony would decide his fate and waited to hear the verdict same as us the fans. That's a true Hallmark of a loyal soldier. If Paulie was ready to dime Tony out to the feds I'm pretty sure he would have just killed him the first chance he got once they were on that boat. Tony hesitated for quite a while Polly had plenty of chances to end Tony. I think this proves Paulie deep down in his heart was loyal to Tony above all else. Polly would have sold out the mafia to save his own skin but he'd die for Tony. At least that's how I read the scene I'm probably wrong LOL

[@dragos-ioancraciun9810]

I agree, Paulie made some mistakes when he felt he was treated unfairly or left out but he was not the mastermind people portray him to be. At the end of the day, he is just a soldier who realized New York doesn't give a shit about him even if he tried something. He chose the side of Tony and gave up on the bullshit.

[@RealRoknRollr3108]

I think you've missed the fact also that Tony was just plain ol getting irritated by Paulie's constant yammering and heh heh heh's. You see it at the end of the Remember When episode and when Tony was in the coma.

[@MichaelMut]

The decision to not clip *Paulie likely cost him his life, as he’s one of the few who was left after the decapitation executed by Butchie. Wouldn’t doubt he had something to do with Tony’s murder at Holsten’s.

[@Gigibaby88]

That damn Pauline, she was always causing trouble!