While discussing the Blu-ray release of the HBO series with the Associated Press, “The Sopranos” creator David Chase was asked about the possibility of a prequel to the series. According to the New York Daily News, Chase was “intrigued” by the idea, and he “wouldn’t mind exploring the era before the show began.” But it would be very different from the crime drama we know and love.
“Even if I did it, it wouldn’t be ‘The Sopranos’ that was on the air — obviously at least one person is gone that we would need,” Chase told the AP, referring to James Gandolfini, who died last year. Chase said he’d be most interested in exploring the ’60s and early ’70s in Newark, New Jersey, and “all the racial animosity, or the true beginning of the flood of drugs.”
Discussion of a prequel to the series first began in 2012 when Chase said he’d want to base such a project on “Tony’s father, and Uncle Junior, and Livia — Tony’s mother.” He touched on the topic again earlier this year when he said he would “maybe do a prequel” or even a movie.
It’s safe to assume, however, that Chase was speaking hypothetically and to not take his comments too seriously. Last time the showrunner’s words were taken out of context regarding Tony Soprano’s fate in the series finale, the Internet went a bit wild. Chase later had to issue a statement for clarification.
If you’re still needing a “Sopranos” fix though, you might as well revisit Chase’s favorite episodes.
For the full interview with David Chase, head to New York Daily News.