After his sudden passing last week, James Gandolfini's body will return to the United States and funeral plans are currently being prepared for the last actor.
According to Us Weekly, the body is being flown from Italy and is scheduled to arrive in New York City tonight. As for funeral plans, they are scheduled to proceed on Thursday.
"On behalf of the Gandolfini family, I would like to thank the Italian authorities for all the assistance they have rendered in expediting the formalities necessary to repatriate James Gandolfini's remains to the United States," said Michael Kobold, the family spokesperson. "We are fully aware that this process usually takes seven days and we are extremely grateful for their efficiency in dealing with this matter."
Gandolfini died on June 19. The actor had suffered a heart attack in his hotel room in Rome. The actor was in Italy for vacation and was scheduled to attend a film festival in Sicily that weekend.
"It has been our privilege to be guests in your beautiful country, despite the difficult circumstances. We sincerely thank you," said Kobold on behalf of the cooperation on the Italian government the "kind support" of the U.S. government.
He also thanked United Airlines "for moving mountains to help us" as well as HBO "for their support at this difficult time."
Kobold did not reveal funeral details but said announcements will be made shortly. However, a source told Us Weekly the funeral would be held on Thursday at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City.
The actor, who was 51, was best known for his role for playing mob boss Tony Soprano on "The Sopranos" which scored him three Emmy wins and a Golden Globe.
