James Gandolfini Dead: 'The Sopranos' Star Dies of Possible Heart Attack During Italy Vacation at Age 51, Fans and Celebrities Mourn Actor's Death on Twitter

Several reports confirm that James Gandolfini, star of the hit HBO series "The Sopranos," died while vacationing in Italy on Wednesday, June 19. Although not confirmed, 51-year-old Gandolfini possibly passed away from a sudden heart attack. Several fans and fellow celebs have since expressed their immense sorrow and condolences on Twitter.

HBO spokespersons as well as several reps for Gandolfini announced the actor's unfortunate death early Wednesday evening. Gandolfini's management released a statement reading:

"It is with immense sorrow that we report our client James Gandolfini passed away today while on holiday in Rome, Italy. Our hearts are shattered and we will miss him deeply. He and his family were part of our family for many years and we are all grieving."

The HBO network also released this statement:

"We're all in shock and feeling immeasurable sadness at the loss of a beloved member of our family. He was 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. He touched so many of us over the years with his humor, his warmth and his humility. Our hearts go out to his wife and children during this terrible time. He will be deeply missed by all of us."

Gandolfini starred as Italian-American Mafia leader Tony Soprano on David Chase's hit HBO series "The Sopranos" which ran from 1999-2007. Gandolfini snagged three Emmy Awards for his work on the show. He also starred in several popular films, including "True Romance," "Zero Dark Thirty," and most recently "The Incredible Burt Wonderstone."

Several fans and fellow stars have taken to Twitter to express their shock and sorrow:

@mcgregor_ewan: "Jesus. The world just lost one of its great actors. James Gandolfini has passed away. Thoughts to his family. Such a talent. I'm saddened."

@perlmutations: "Sweet journey home, James Gandolfini... The brightest stars burn the fastest..."

@SenJohnMcCain: "RIP James Gandolfini, one of the nicest guys I've ever met."

@mattzollerseitz: "James Gandolfini was a genuinely kind and thoughtful human being. I really can't stress that enough. A great soul with a good heart."

@patrick_wilson: "Pretty sad about James Gandolfini, huge talent. Rest big boy."

@Bethenny: "Just heard TV icon James Gandolfini has died. I'm shocked. I'm sad. I loved his work. My heart goes out to his family."

@SteveCarell: "James Gandolfini. Unbelievably sad news. A fine man."

@WillSasso: "Saddened to hear that James Gandolfini has passed. He was as talented an actor as there ever was. I've met few people with as much presence."

Just last year, Gandolfini produced the HBO mini-series "Hemingway & Gellhorn." He was currently working with the premium cable network on a new series called “Criminal Justice.”

Thoughts and condolences go out to Gandolfini's family, friends, co-stars, and fans during this time of tragedy. Gandolfini is survived by his wife Deborah Lin and his son Michael from a previous marriage.He will be greatly missed.