hollywoodreporter.co...
Robert Iler: Sopranos Star
Curated by
cdteliot
4 min read
1,773
6
Robert Iler is an American former actor best known for his portrayal of A.J. Soprano on the critically acclaimed HBO series The Sopranos from 1999 to 2007. After largely retiring from acting following the conclusion of the show, Iler pursued a career as a professional poker player in Las Vegas.
Iler's Early Life and Beginnings
celebritynetworth.co...
Robert Iler was born on March 2, 1985, in New York City. His entry into the entertainment industry began at a very young age. Discovered by his manager, Jeff Mitchell, while walking down the street in Manhattan with his father, Iler's first acting job was a commercial for Pizza Hut when he was just six years old
1
2
. Following this early start, he took a brief hiatus to focus on his education.
By the age of ten, Iler returned to acting and quickly landed roles in several high-profile commercials for companies such as IBM, AT&T, VH1, and ESPN1
2
. His early television appearances included an episode of Saturday Night Live alongside Rosie O'Donnell1
.
Iler's first significant film role came in 1998 when he was cast as Denny Harley in The Tic Code, a drama about a young boy with Tourette syndrome1
2
. This role marked the beginning of his transition from commercial work to more substantial acting roles, setting the stage for his later success on The Sopranos1
2
.5 sources
Robert Iler's Breakthrough on The Sopranos
slashfilm.com
Robert Iler's breakthrough role came in 1999 when he was cast as Anthony "A.J." Soprano Jr., the son of Tony Soprano, on the critically acclaimed HBO series The Sopranos. This role marked a significant turning point in Iler's career, as he became a central figure in one of television's most iconic series. Over the show's six seasons, from 1999 to 2007, Iler's portrayal of the troubled teenager navigating life within a mafia family earned him widespread critical praise and recognition
1
2
.
Iler's performance as A.J. Soprano was lauded for its depth and authenticity, capturing the complexities of a young man growing up in the shadow of his powerful father. His work on the show did not go unnoticed; at the age of 16, he became the youngest male actor to receive a Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series1
. This accolade highlighted his talent and solidified his place in television history.
A significant aspect of Iler's experience on The Sopranos was his close relationship with co-star James Gandolfini, who played his on-screen father, Tony Soprano. The chemistry between Iler and Gandolfini translated into a genuine off-screen friendship, which Iler has often spoken about with great affection1
. This bond not only enhanced their performances but also provided Iler with a mentor and friend during his formative years in the industry.
Throughout his time on The Sopranos, Iler's character, A.J., evolved from a mischievous child into a young adult grappling with his identity and the moral complexities of his family's criminal activities. This character arc allowed Iler to showcase his range as an actor, contributing to the show's critical and commercial success1
2
.5 sources
Iler's Life After Sopranos
cheatsheet.com
After The Sopranos concluded in 2007, Robert Iler largely stepped away from acting, choosing to focus on other pursuits. He moved to Las Vegas to pursue a career as a professional poker player, a passion that had been nurtured since childhood by his grandmother
1
2
. His poker career has been marked by significant achievements, including over $400,000 in tournament winnings as of October 20233
.
Iler's transition to poker was not without its challenges. He struggled with substance abuse issues, particularly during his early years in Las Vegas. His lifestyle at the time was characterized by heavy partying and gambling, which eventually led to well-documented problems with drugs and alcohol2
3
. Recognizing the need for change, Iler has maintained sobriety since 20132
4
.
In addition to his poker career, Iler has also ventured into podcasting. In 2023, he reunited with his Sopranos co-star Jamie-Lynn Sigler to co-host the podcast Not Today Pal, produced by YMH Studios, owned by comedians Tom Segura and Christina Pazsitzky1
2
. The podcast explores the dynamic relationship between Iler and Sigler, who have remained close friends despite their contrasting personalities1
. This new venture has allowed Iler to reconnect with his Sopranos fanbase while exploring a different form of media.
Overall, Iler's life after The Sopranos has been a journey of personal growth and professional reinvention, marked by his successful poker career, his battle with and recovery from substance abuse, and his foray into podcasting.5 sources
Legal Troubles and Controversies
tvinsider.com
In 2001, Robert Iler faced significant legal troubles when he was arrested for robbery and possession of marijuana, an incident that garnered substantial media attention and cast a shadow over his burgeoning career
2
. The following year, he pleaded guilty to mugging two tourists and was sentenced to three years of probation4
5
. This period marked a tumultuous time in Iler's life, as he navigated the consequences of his actions while under the public eye. Despite these challenges, Iler expressed deep regret for his behavior and has since worked to rebuild his life and career, demonstrating resilience and a commitment to personal growth2
.5 sources
Robert's Recent Acting Projects
Robert Iler has not been actively involved in many acting projects since his role on The Sopranos. However, he has occasionally returned to the screen for select projects. In recent years, Iler has focused more on his personal interests and professional poker career rather than pursuing new acting roles. His most notable recent appearance was a guest role in the 2016 film Four Kings, where he played a supporting character. Despite his limited involvement in acting, Iler remains a recognizable figure due to his iconic role as A.J. Soprano and continues to engage with fans through his podcast and public appearances.
5 sources
Closing Thoughts
Robert Iler's journey from a child actor to a professional poker player and podcaster is a testament to his versatility and resilience. Best known for his role as A.J. Soprano on the critically acclaimed HBO series The Sopranos, Iler's early success in the entertainment industry was marked by both critical acclaim and personal challenges. His portrayal of the troubled teenager navigating life within a mafia family earned him widespread recognition and a Primetime Emmy nomination at a young age
1
2
.
After The Sopranos ended in 2007, Iler largely stepped away from acting, choosing to focus on other pursuits, including a successful career in professional poker. Despite facing legal troubles and substance abuse issues, he has demonstrated significant personal growth, maintaining sobriety since 20131
2
4
. His recent venture into podcasting with his former co-star Jamie-Lynn Sigler has allowed him to reconnect with his fanbase and explore new media avenues1
2
.
Throughout his career, Iler has shown a remarkable ability to adapt and reinvent himself, whether through his acting roles, poker achievements, or podcasting endeavors. His journey reflects the complexities and challenges of life in the public eye, as well as the potential for personal transformation and resilience.5 sources
Related
what inspired Robert Iler to start the podcast "Not Today Pal"
how has Robert Iler's life changed since he retired from acting
what are some of Robert Iler's favorite episodes from "The Sopranos"
Keep Reading
Jon Cryer: Actor and Filmmaker
Jon Cryer is an American actor, writer, and director best known for his roles in the films Pretty in Pink and Hot Shots!, as well as the hit TV sitcom Two and a Half Men. Born into a show business family, Cryer has had a prolific career spanning over three decades in Hollywood.
11,621
Johnny Galecki: Actor, Husband, Father
Johnny Galecki, the acclaimed actor best known for his role as Leonard Hofstadter on the hit sitcom The Big Bang Theory, has recently revealed that he secretly married his partner Morgan Galecki and welcomed a baby girl named Oona Evelena into their family.
22,189
Harry Anderson: Judge Harry Stone on "Night Court"
Harry Anderson, best known for his role as the quirky and kindhearted Judge Harry Stone on the long-running NBC sitcom "Night Court," passed away unexpectedly at his home in Asheville, North Carolina on April 16, 2018 at the age of 65.
7,403
James Earl Jones: Voice Titan
James Earl Jones, the EGOT winner renowned for his distinctive baritone voice, has left an indelible mark on entertainment as the voice behind iconic characters like Darth Vader and Mufasa, while also establishing himself as a titan of the stage.
3,084
