Dominic Chianese, at 94 years old, is not slowing down. He is set to perform at Town Hall on June 30, where he will share life stories and folk songs, continuing his artistic journey.
Known globally for his role as Uncle Junior on HBO’s iconic series The Sopranos, Chianese is finally realizing a long-held dream of performing live.
From England, where he has resided for the past eight years, Chianese spoke with the Daily News about his recent performances in London, which he used to gauge audience interest.
Reflecting on his journey, he noted, “I did about seven shows to see if people are interested in stories, and they are.”
Chianese’s career, spanning multiple decades, is rich with experiences that precede his famous role in the 1994 The Godfather Part II.
Before diving into cinema, the Bronx native spent 25 years in theater, recalling a notable reunion with Al Pacino while performing Shakespeare’s Richard III.
However, it is his role in Requiem for a Heavyweight alongside John Lithgow in 1985 that he holds closest to his heart, saying unequivocally, “That was my favorite.”
While he attributes much of his acting prowess to his extensive theater background, Chianese’s portrayal of Corrado Soprano has brought him both recognition and financial success.
“I didn’t really make any money until Sopranos,” he admitted, acknowledging how pivotal the role was for his career.
Even nearly two decades later, fans still recognize him predominantly as Uncle Junior.
Chianese expressed gratitude for his fans, stating, “I get recognized all the time. That’s gratifying because I like people.”
The Sopranos controversial finale left many questions unanswered, particularly regarding the fate of the lead character, Tony Soprano.
Chianese shared his surprise at the abrupt ending of the series, noting, “The way it ended he’s still alive. Nobody knows.”
As for his own career, Chianese remains active and hopeful about future opportunities, expressing a desire to return to New York City, where his artistic aspirations began.
“I’d like to be in Manhattan because there’s a lot I’d like to do in my career,” he stated, firmly asserting, “I’m only 94.”
His life in England, enriched by being married to an English woman, has been a sustained adventure for Chianese.
However, he feels the pull to return to the U.S. It is not just a personal desire but a professional one as well, indicating that he hopes for more career opportunities back home.
He dreamily mentioned performing at Radio City Music Hall as a significant goal on his bucket list: “That would be nice, wouldn’t it?”
While Chianese may not be trading in his mafioso persona for a spot as a Rockette, his upcoming Town Hall performance promises to reveal more of his artistic sides, both in music and storytelling.
This event will draw from his rich history in film, television, and a time spent emceeing at Gerde’s Folk City in Greenwich Village during the 1960s and 70s.
During that time, he met many accomplished folk musicians, including Bob Dylan, whom he admires for his songwriting talents.
Chianese also fondly recalls introducing fans to the newly formed duo, Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel, during their early performance of “The Sound of Silence.”
When it comes to music, Chianese has plans for his Town Hall audience.
He intends to perform songs by notable artists such as Dylan, Kris Kristofferson, and perhaps Leonard Cohen, alongside Italian classics, including the recognizable Cuban anthem “Guantanamera,” which has been popularized by various artists.
“That’s one of my favorites,” he affirmed.
Music, he explained, is a vital part of his life as an artist, and he looks forward to showcasing this aspect during his performance.
“I want it to keep going,” Chianese said passionately, discussing his desire for his career to extend well into the future.
Now back in the U.S., he is optimistic about his upcoming New York performance and the potential it holds for his future endeavors.
Chianese hopes his stories resonate with New Yorkers, believing they will find inspiration in the journey of a Bronx kid who made it in the arts.
“They should want to know how a Bronx kid made it,” he concluded.
image source from：https://www.nydailynews.com/2025/05/24/dominic-chianese-nyc-town-hall-sopranos/
