'Sopranos' Star James Gandolfini Dies at 51

James Gandolfini, best known for his iconic portrayal of troubled mobster Tony Soprano in the HBO-serie 'The Sopranos', has died. HBO confirmed to the media wednesday evening.

The 51 years old actor died of a sudden heart attack while vacationing in Rome, Italy, HBO reports. The 'Sopranos' star is survived by a wife and two children.

"He was [a] special man, a great talent, but more importantly a gentle and loving person who treated everyone no matter their title or position with equal respect," the network wrote in an emailed statement.

The actor was nominated for six acting Emmys, winning in 2000, 2001 and 2003. Gandolfini was also nominated for four Golden Globes, winning one. He also appeared in movies such as 'True Romance', 'The Mexican', 'Zero Dark Thirty' and 'Killing Them Softly'.