The Sopranos (The Sopranos episode) relieved as if "let out of jail. It was like a reprieve from the governor." "The Sopranos" is the first of only two episodes directed by Chase. The other is the series finale, "Made in America". Although this episode is titled "The Sopranos" on the DVD, Blu-ray and reruns on A&E, it was referred to as "Pilot" when originally aired. During the year-long break between the pilot and the start of the shoot of the rest of the 12 episodes of the season, James Gandolfini gained 60 pounds for the role of Tony and underwent voice coaching. Siberia Federico and
The Sopranos (season 5) that made it an acknowledged television classic." 56th Primetime Emmy Awards 11th Screen Actors Guild Awards 62nd Golden Globe Awards Writers Guild of America Awards Directors Guild of America Awards 20th TCA Awards The Sopranos (season 5) The fifth season of "The Sopranos" aired on HBO from March 7 to June 6, 2004. The fifth season was released on DVD in region 1 on June 7, 2005. The story of season five focuses on the return of two prominent members of the DiMeo family, Tony Blundetto and Feech La Manna, who are released from lengthy stays in prison and struggle