The Sopranos (The Sopranos episode) The Sopranos (The Sopranos episode) "The Sopranos", also known as "Pilot", is the first episode of the HBO television drama series, "The Sopranos", which premiered on January 10, 1999. It was written and directed by the series creator and executive producer David Chase. New Jersey mobster Tony Soprano passes out while barbecuing. Tony's collapse is diagnosed as a panic attack, leading to his referral to psychiatrist Jennifer Melfi. Tony is initially uncooperative, but soon tells Dr. Melfi a story about a family of ducks which nested in his swimming pool. He goes over tensions between Carmela and Meadow over a
Eloise (The Sopranos) Herman Melville's "Billy Budd". Tony's callous behavior toward Carmela angers Furio, who has difficulty restraining himself when he calls his wife a "moody bitch." Tony remains oblivious of the growing sexual tension between Carmela and Furio. Carmela later visits Furio's house to discuss decorating; it seems they are going to kiss, but they are interrupted by one of her father's contractors. Tony, Furio, and other members of the crew visit an Indian casino in Connecticut. While most of the others carouse, Furio stands aloof. Later, as the drunken crew prepares to board the casino's helicopter for the flight home, Furio