On “The FINAL Sopranos Reunion?”, an episode of Not Today Pal, Jamie-Lynn Sigler and Robert Iyler discussed their reunion with The Sopranos cast. The special occasion was possibly the last time the actors will ever get together. The stars were attending the premiere of David Chase’s documentary, Wise Guy: David Chase and the Sopranos (2024).
Farewell to The Sopranos
The Sopranos remains a cultural touchstone, credited with elevating the crime drama genre and reshaping TV as a whole. The cast’s reunion for the documentary premiere was more than a celebration; it was a moment to reflect on the impact the show had on their lives and on pop culture. It was also a chance to reconnect and pay tribute to the creative vision of David Chase.
Iyler’s journey after the series
While Sigler continued her career in entertainment, Iyler took a different path after the show ended in 2007. Best known for his role as A.J. Soprano, Iyler largely stepped away from acting, choosing instead to focus on poker, available at an online casino in Ireland. Rob often discusses his poker playing in the podcast. On the reunion ep, he talked about his experiences gambling.
Poker
Poker tests players’ skill, strategy, and psychology. Iyler is uninterested in acting, and has repeatedly said he’s unlikely to ever experience the high level of craft among the cast and crew of The Sopranos. He still plays some poker tournaments. The game’s popularity has only grown in recent years, with many players drawn to the mental discipline it demands.
Other celebrity players
Poker has long held a special appeal beyond professional players, drawing in actors, musicians, and athletes. Celebrities often play in televised charity tournaments or private games, bringing more eyes to the game. Ben Affleck, for example, has been open about playing in high-stakes games in Hollywood circles. He won the 2004 California State Poker Championship, taking home over $350,000.
Tobey Maguire is another actor whose interest in poker is well documented. These types of private, high-stakes games highlight how poker’s blend of social, strategic, and competitive elements appeal to entertainers.
In the music world, artists like Nelly and Scott Ian (of Anthrax) have competed in the World Series of Poker (WSOP) events. While not full-time professionals, many players from other industries appreciate the mental demands and depth of the game. This crossover from entertainment to poker has also been encouraged by televised events such as Celebrity Poker Showdown, which ran in the 2000s and helped popularize the idea of celebrities testing their skills at the table.
Poker is a game partly based on chance, but also skill, strategy, and psychological reading. Maria Konnikova has talked about how she applies psychology in poker and wider life, saying that the game can lead to players being “cognitively depleted”. Tournaments, cash games, and online platforms each have their own challenges and communities. For many players (celebrity or not), the appeal lies in decision-making under uncertainty, as well as the social interactions that come with competing face-to-face.