Broadway marquees to dim lights in honor of James Gandolfini

Broadway theaters will dim their marquee lights Wednesday night in memory of James Gandolfini, "The Sopranos" star who earned a Tony Award nomination in 2009.

The Broadway League said Tuesday the lights will be dimmed for one minute at exactly 8 p.m. EDT.

"James Gandolfini was a consummate actor who brought individuality to each role and inspired a true connection with the audience. Whether on screen or on a Broadway stage, he made every role believable and seemingly effortless," said Charlotte St. Martin, executive director of The Broadway League. "Our thoughts go out to his family and friends, and certainly to all of his fans who felt as if they knew his characters."

The 51-year-old actor died on June 19 in Rome and afuneral will be held Thursday at the Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine in New York City.

Gandolfini received a Tony nomination for his role in the award-winning "God of Carnage." He also appeared on Broadway in "On the Waterfront" in 1995 and "A Streetcar Named Desire" in 1992.