Michael Imperioli

Michael Imperioli: From 'Sopranos' to Substance Abuse Activism

Early Life and Career

Michael Imperioli was born in Mount Vernon, New York, on March 26, 1966. He attended the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and began his acting career in small theatre productions and television commercials.

Imperioli's breakout role came in 1999 when he was cast as Christopher Moltisanti in the HBO crime drama series "The Sopranos." His portrayal of the troubled mobster earned him widespread recognition and critical acclaim.

Substance Abuse Struggles

While Imperioli's career was blossoming, he was privately struggling with substance abuse. In 2004, he entered rehab for cocaine addiction and has been sober ever since.

Imperioli has spoken openly about his addiction, using his platform to raise awareness about substance abuse and recovery. His memoir, "Woke Up This Morning: The Road to Recovery," chronicles his journey through addiction and sobriety.

Activism and Advocacy

Inspired by his own experiences, Imperioli has become a vocal advocate for addiction recovery and mental health awareness. He has worked with organizations such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and the Drug Policy Alliance.

Imperioli has also used his storytelling abilities to highlight addiction's impact on families and communities. His films "The Call" and "The Last Black Man in San Francisco" both explore the complexities of substance abuse and its consequences.

Continued Success

Despite his struggles, Imperioli has continued to thrive both personally and professionally. He has appeared in numerous films and television shows, including "Life on Mars," "Mad Men," and "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit."

Imperioli also co-founded the production company Imperioli Entertainment and has written several plays and screenplays. His work continues to resonate with audiences, highlighting his talent as a storyteller and his commitment to raising awareness about important social issues.