Nickelodeon has recently announced a new children’s TV show inspired by the gritty mob drama, The Sopranos. Titled “Sopranos Junior,” the show will feature all the beloved characters from the original series, but in pint-sized form.
According to the producers, the show is targeted at children aged 7-10 and will showcase a colorful cast of characters, including Tiny Tony, Miniature Meadow, and Pint-Sized Paulie.
“We’re thrilled about this exciting project,” expressed Nickelodeon’s Italian spokesperson, Paul “Mutzadell” Santoro. “We believe kids will adore seeing their favorite Sopranos characters in a whole new way. And parents can be reassured that their children will learn valuable life lessons about respect, loyalty, and breaking the legs of those who wrong them.”
However, some critics have expressed concerns. They worry that a show about Italian Americans, even one aimed at children, might convey harmful stereotypes and send misleading messages about dietary choices, such as excessive consumption of cured meat and pasta. Additionally, there are fears that “Sopranos Junior” could potentially encourage children to engage in inappropriate behaviors like smoking cigars while driving on the New Jersey Turnpike.
The producers, on the other hand, maintain that they have taken great care to ensure the show’s appropriateness for all ages.
“We’ve significantly toned down the violence,” explained executive producer David Chase. “No one will be whacked. Instead of profanity, they will use classic Sopranos expressions like ‘goomba’ and ‘gabagool’.”
“I can’t wait to see little Tiny Tony feeding a group of ducklings,” exclaimed eight-year-old Lorenzo Mancini. “Forget about it!”
“Sopranos Junior” is scheduled to premiere on June 21st at 8 PM, immediately following the season finale of “Band of Baby Brothers.”
