The recent papal conclave resulted in the election of the first American pope, Pope Leo XIV, and revealed an intriguing connection to the popular television series “The Sopranos.” Father Robert Alan Sirico, brother of the late actor Tony Sirico who portrayed Paulie “Paulie Walnuts” Gualtieri on the show, was present in Rome for the conclave. While Tony found fame in Hollywood, Robert took a different path, becoming a cardinal and co-founding a conservative religious think tank in Michigan. Despite their divergent journeys, the brothers shared a bond rooted in their Italian heritage and upbringing in New York City.
Tony Sirico’s portrayal of Gualtieri in “The Sopranos” captivated audiences for six seasons, showcasing his talent as an actor. Robert Sirico, on the other hand, chose a life of faith, becoming a priest in 1989. At Tony’s funeral in 2022, Robert fondly remembered his brother and reflected on his journey towards redemption. This unexpected connection between the papal conclave and “The Sopranos” highlights the sometimes surprising intersections of life and faith.
