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‘Sopranos’ Star Joe Pantoliano Feels ‘Uncomfortable’ in the U.S., Considers Move to Portugal
Veteran actor Joe Pantoliano, best known for his role as Ralph Cifaretto in the critically acclaimed HBO series The Sopranos, has revealed that he’s feeling increasingly uneasy living in the United States and is seriously considering relocating to Portugal.
In a recent interview, Pantoliano expressed growing concerns about the social and political climate in the U.S., saying, “I just want to run for the hills.” The 72-year-old actor, affectionately known as “Joey Pants” in Hollywood, shared that he’s been researching a potential move to Portugal, a country that has become a popular destination for American expatriates in recent years.
Who Is Joe Pantoliano?
Joe Pantoliano is a prolific American character actor whose career spans over four decades. Known for his versatility and intense performances, he has appeared in numerous iconic films and television shows.
– Born: September 12, 1951, in Hoboken, New Jersey
– Notable Roles:
– Ralph Cifaretto in The Sopranos
– Cypher in The Matrix (1999)
– Teddy in Memento (2000)
– Francis Fratelli in The Goonies (1985)
– Captain Howard in the Bad Boys film series
– Awards: Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series (2003) for The Sopranos
Pantoliano’s portrayal of Ralph Cifaretto, a volatile and morally corrupt mobster, earned him widespread acclaim and cemented his place in television history. His character was known for his erratic behavior, dark humor, and complex relationship with Tony Soprano, played by the late James Gandolfini.
Why Portugal?
Pantoliano cited several reasons for considering Portugal as his new home:
– A more relaxed pace of life
– Lower cost of living compared to major U.S. cities
– Political stability and safety
– A growing community of American retirees and creatives
He added, “I’ve been looking into the Golden Visa program and other residency options. I just want peace and quiet, and Portugal seems to offer that.”
Quick Facts: The Sopranos
– Premiered: 1999 on HBO
– Created by: David Chase
– Main Cast:
– James Gandolfini as Tony Soprano
– Edie Falco as Carmela Soprano
– Michael Imperioli as Christopher Moltisanti
– Lorraine Bracco as Dr. Jennifer Melfi
– Joe Pantoliano as Ralph Cifaretto (Seasons 3–4)
– Legacy: Widely regarded as one of the greatest television series of all time, The Sopranos redefined the crime drama genre and paved the way for the modern era of prestige TV.
What’s Next for Joey Pants?
While Pantoliano hasn’t made any final decisions, he’s actively exploring his options and says he’s ready for a major life change. “I’ve had a great run in the States, but I think it’s time for something different,” he said. “I want to write, relax, and maybe even open a little café by the sea.”
As fans continue to celebrate his storied career, many are wishing him well on his journey—whether it leads to Portugal or simply to a quieter chapter in life.
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Source: Page Six via Google News