The funeral of Soprano's star James Gandolfini was held today (27th June 2013) at St John the Divine Catholic Church in New York. A private wake was held yesterday (Wednesday 26th June) in New Jersey for family members and close friends. 

Representing the cast and crew of The Sopranos was actress Aida Turturra and creator David Chase, who gave a eulogy. Gandolfini's widow Deborah Lin Gandolfini and two close family friends also spoke. 

James Gandolfini
The late James Gandolfini, pictured here attending the 8th Starlit Benefit Gala, New York, 10th June 2013

In his speech, which Chase addressed as a letter to the late actor, he rememisced about something the actor had once said. Gandolfini, speaking to the creator said "A man. That's all. I want to be a man". Chase couldn't believe Gandolfini's wish as he considered the God Of Carnage star to be the embodiment of masculinity.

Other from the acting community paid their respects including Alec Baldwin and Steve Buscemi. 

The public was invited to attend the service once all invited guests were seated. The church was set up to accommodate 1500 people. 

Steve Buscemi
Boardwalk Empire star Steve Buscemi attended Gandolfini's funeral. 

HBO are paying for the funeral and had cameras set up in order to create a special memorial video which will be presented as a token of their respect to Gandolfini's friends and family. 

Tributes poured in at the news of the actor's death: not only at his "flawless" acting abilities but at his "warmth", "friendliness" and "generosity". These were just some of the comments made of the actor by Patricia Arquette, Marcia Gay Harden, Vince Gilligan and Drea de Matteo. 

Contactmusic sends their condolences to James Gandolfini's friends and family.

Alec Baldwin
Alec Baldwin, attending the same June 10th 2013 event as Gandolfini (pictured above) paid his respects today in New York.