36 Facts About Michael Imperioli

Early Life and Background

Michael Imperioli, best known for his role as Christopher Moltisanti in "The Sopranos," has a fascinating background that shaped his career. Let's dive into some intriguing facts about his early life.

1. Born on March 26, 1966, in Mount Vernon, New York, Michael Imperioli grew up in a family with Italian roots.
2. His father, Dan Imperioli, was a bus driver and amateur actor, which sparked Michael's interest in acting.
3. Michael attended Sacred Heart High School in Yonkers, New York.
4. He later studied at the prestigious Stella Adler Conservatory, where he honed his acting skills.

Career Beginnings

Before becoming a household name, Michael Imperioli had to work his way up in the entertainment industry. Here are some key moments from his early career.

5. Michael's first film role was in the 1989 movie "Lean on Me," where he played a small part.
6. He appeared in "Goodfellas" (1990) as Spider, a memorable role that showcased his talent.
7. Michael worked with director Martin Scorsese again in "The Wolf of Wall Street" (2013).
8. He also had a recurring role in the TV series "Law & Order" during the early 1990s.

Breakthrough with "The Sopranos"

Michael Imperioli's career skyrocketed with his role in "The Sopranos." Let's explore some facts about his time on the iconic show.

9. Michael played Christopher Moltisanti, a complex character who struggled with addiction and ambition.
10. He won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series in 2004 for his role.
11. Michael wrote five episodes of "The Sopranos," showcasing his talent as a writer.
12. His character's relationship with Tony Soprano, played by James Gandolfini, was a central plotline.

Other Acting Roles

Beyond "The Sopranos," Michael Imperioli has had a diverse acting career. Here are some notable roles.

13. Michael starred in the TV series "Detroit 1-8-7" as Detective Louis Fitch.
14. He appeared in the film "Summer of Sam" (1999), directed by Spike Lee.
15. Michael had a role in the popular TV series "Hawaii Five-0."
16. He voiced the character Frankie in the animated film "Shark Tale" (2004).

Writing and Directing

Michael Imperioli is not just an actor; he has also made significant contributions as a writer and director. Let's look at some of his achievements in this area.

17. Michael wrote and directed the film "The Hungry Ghosts" (2009), which explores themes of addiction and redemption.
18. He co-wrote the screenplay for "Summer of Sam" with Spike Lee.
19. Michael wrote the novel "The Perfume Burned His Eyes," published in 2018.
20. He has written several plays, including "Little Blood Brother" and "Displaced."

Personal Life

Michael Imperioli's personal life is just as interesting as his professional career. Here are some facts about his life off-screen.

21. Michael married Victoria Chlebowski in 1995, and they have three children together.
22. He is a practicing Buddhist and has spoken about how it has influenced his life and work.
23. Michael is an avid musician and plays the guitar.
24. He co-owns a bar in Chelsea, New York City, called "Ciel Rouge."

Awards and Recognition

Michael Imperioli's talent has not gone unnoticed. Here are some of the awards and recognition he has received throughout his career.

25. In addition to his Emmy win, Michael has been nominated for several Screen Actors Guild Awards.
26. He received the "Made in NY" Award in 2008 for his contributions to the New York City entertainment industry.
27. Michael was honored with the "Best Actor" award at the Taormina Film Fest for his role in "The Hungry Ghosts."
28. He was inducted into the Bronx Walk of Fame in 2014.

Fun Facts

Let's end with some fun and lesser-known facts about Michael Imperioli that might surprise you.

29. Michael is a huge fan of the New York Knicks and often attends their games.
30. He has a black belt in Tae Kwon Do.
31. Michael is a vegetarian and has been for many years.
32. He appeared in the music video for "Yes We Can," a song inspired by Barack Obama's presidential campaign.
33. Michael has a passion for cooking and often shares his recipes on social media.
34. He is an advocate for animal rights and supports various animal welfare organizations.
35. Michael once worked as a bartender before his acting career took off.
36. He has a podcast called "Talking Sopranos," where he discusses episodes of "The Sopranos" with co-star Steve Schirripa.

The Final Curtain Call

Michael Imperioli's career is a tapestry of talent, hard work, and versatility. From his iconic role as Christopher Moltisanti in "The Sopranos" to his work as a writer and director, he's shown a knack for storytelling in many forms. His passion for acting began at a young age, and he has since become a household name, earning accolades and respect in the industry. Beyond the screen, Michael's dedication to his craft and his willingness to explore different creative avenues make him a fascinating figure. Whether you're a long-time fan or just discovering his work, there's no denying the impact he's had on television and film. So next time you watch "The Sopranos" or catch one of his films, you'll have a deeper appreciation for the man behind the characters. Michael Imperioli truly is a multifaceted artist worth celebrating.