Lorraine Bracco of ‘The Sopranos’ Discusses Love and Life in Her 70s

Lorraine Bracco of ‘The Sopranos’ Discusses Love and Life in Her 70s

The iconic actress Lorraine Bracco, renowned for her role as Dr. Jennifer Melfi on the legendary HBO series ‘The Sopranos’, is taking a bold step into the dating world as she embraces her 70s. Bracco, who played the psychiatrist to the infamous Tony Soprano, recently opened up about her evolving love life during a candid interview with AARP.

Rediscovering Romance

At this stage in her life, Bracco has embraced her single status, expressing optimism about what lies ahead.

“I’m single, and I’m sure someone will arrive,” Bracco shared, revealing her unwavering belief in love and companionship.

Desirable Qualities in a Partner

During the interview, Bracco elaborated on the qualities she seeks in a potential partner. A sense of humor tops her list, alongside a strong sense of self.

“I believe in love,” she emphasized. “A sense of humor is extremely important. And I like a guy who’s sure of himself.”

Bracco further explained, “I’m sure of myself, so I want him to be rock steady.” This demand for confidence highlights her desire for a balanced partnership in this new chapter of her life.

A Look Back at Past Relationships

Over the years, the twice-married Bracco has experienced the complexities of love. Her first marriage to French salon owner Daniel Guerard began when she became pregnant. Recall from her past, Bracco noted, “Basically, he said, ‘Well, what do you want to do?’ And I answered, ‘Well, where I come from, you get married, and you have the child.’” They married in 1979 but divorced three years later.

Following this initial relationship, Bracco dated Oscar-nominated actor Harvey Keitel for over a decade. Reflecting on her intense romance with Keitel, Bracco told AARP, “I was seduced,” a sentiment that showcases the passion she brought to her relationships.

The Aftermath of Love

However, their relationship ended after Bracco was unfaithful. “He hated me for it. I disgusted him,” she confided, illustrating how the affair marked a turning point for both. The ensuing custody battle over their daughter Stella took a significant toll on Bracco, leaving her with substantial legal fees and emotional scars.

In 1997, Bracco sought help for her struggles with depression, a journey she undertook after being cast in ‘The Sopranos’. “I lost a year of my life to depression, and my advice to anyone going through it is get a good doctor,” she advised. Bracco attributes her mental health journey to her success in handling difficult periods in her life.

Success in ‘The Sopranos’

Bracco’s role in ‘The Sopranos’ transformed her career and financial stability. Initially considered for the role of Carmela Soprano, she instead lobbied for Dr. Melfi—a move that showcased her desire for diverse characters. “David was like, ‘Really?’ He was surprised I wanted to play Melfi,” she recalled, emphasizing her inclination toward depth and complexity in her portrayals.

Her performance earned her multiple Emmy nominations and solidified her place as a talented actress in television history. Bracco’s work not only brought her acclaim but also established a legacy as fans continue to celebrate the series, even years after its conclusion.

Navigating Nostalgia and Loss

Despite her success, Bracco carries a bittersweet nostalgia as she reflects on her past. The deaths of her former co-stars James Gandolfini and Ray Liotta have left a profound impact on her. “When I think about ‘The Sopranos’, I don’t think about the success. I think about what I lost,” she shared, poignantly addressing the grief that accompanies cherished memories.

A New Chapter in Comedy

With a diverse career spanning genres, Bracco is now venturing into comedy for the first time. She stars as Roberta in the upcoming Netflix film ‘Nonnas’, a story that combines humor with heartfelt moments. This transition represents Bracco’s willingness to explore new challenges in her acting career.

“I’ve never, ever done a comedy before, so this was big for me. I was nervous; I didn’t know where to start,” Bracco admitted. Her experience on set, where director Stephen Chbosky encouraged her, highlights the supportive environment that allowed her to grow in this new role.

The Joy of Grandmotherhood

Beyond her evolving career, Bracco relishes her role as a grandmother. She expresses joy in spending time with her daughter Margaux’s children, noting the fun and joy of reliving childhood experiences through their eyes.

“Being a grandmother is so much fun, because you relive a part of you that’s been dormant for a while,” she says, emphasizing the deep satisfaction she finds in family life.

Embracing the Next Phase

As she navigates her 70s, Bracco remains committed to a promise she made to herself two decades ago. “I made a deal with myself when I turned 50,” she revealed. “More fun, more fun, more fun!” This mantra not only guides her personal life but also infuses a sense of adventure into her acting career.

With a vibrant spirit and an openness to new experiences, Lorraine Bracco stands as an emblem of resilience and enthusiasm, proving that age does not hinder the pursuit of love, joy, and fulfillment.