Drea de Matteo: The Sopranos Star Who Walked Away from Hollywood

Drea de Matteo, the acclaimed actress known for her role as Adriana La Cerva on the hit HBO series "The Sopranos," has never been one to embrace the Hollywood limelight. In a candid interview with Fox News Digital, the 52-year-old star revealed that she never truly felt like she belonged in the industry, and her decision to step away from the spotlight was "no big deal" for her.

Unmasking the Realities of Stardom: Drea de Matteo's Refreshing Perspective

Embracing Her Authentic Self

Drea de Matteo has never been one to play the "celebrity game." She doesn't own fancy designer bags, walk red carpets, or mingle with other famous personalities. For her, the world of Hollywood was never her own, and she has always remained true to her authentic self. "I don't own fancy purses and shit like that or walk red carpets. I don't mingle with famous people. I don't, it's just not my world. So, for me to walk away from it, not a big deal," she explained.

Forging Her Own Path

Despite her success on "The Sopranos," which earned her an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series, de Matteo has never felt the need to conform to the industry's expectations. She has always marched to the beat of her own drum, focusing on her passions and projects that align with her personal values. "I've done a few acting parts of it on a few TV shows. I've done a good job. I even have, you know, some achievement awards and things. But like, I was never really in the industry," she revealed.

Embracing Creative Pursuits

These days, de Matteo is channeling her energy into her new jewelry collection, which is part of her ULTRAFREE clothing line. Her Tombstone line features name plates on the tombstones "in case you forget who you are, just take a look down there." The collection also includes the Protection line, which features gun pendants as a symbol of personal protection and independence. "It can be a cross, it could be the Star of David, but it could be a Hamsa. It could be any symbol, any religious symbol. But the guns are fun," she explained.

Reclaiming Her Narrative

De Matteo's refreshing perspective on her career and the industry extends to her views on the recent documentary "Wise Guy: David Chase and the Sopranos." She expressed frustration with the portrayal of her late co-star, James Gandolfini, feeling that the filmmakers missed an opportunity to celebrate his remarkable talent and contributions. "He was a hard worker," she said. "Did he blow off some steam? Sure, he did. I think we all know how to blow off some steam. But to capitalize on that, to tell a story about 'The Sopranos,' to make him look like Tony Soprano, this man was nothing like Tony Soprano. Nothing."

Embracing Creative Freedom

Throughout her career, de Matteo has remained steadfast in her commitment to her own creative vision and personal expression. Whether it's her jewelry line or her approach to acting, she has consistently prioritized her independence and integrity over the demands of the industry. "Why don't you clutch this instead? Protect your mind, protect your soul, protect your integrity, protect your independence," she said, echoing her unwavering spirit.