Iconic Diner Booth from 'The Sopranos' Finale Auctioned for Over $80,000

Diner Booth Used in The Sopranos Finale Sells on eBay

‘The Sopranos’ HBO

The diner booth that was at the center of one of the most controversial and iconic scenes in television history has been sold for over $80,000.

One lucky bidder on eBay is now the proud owner of the booth that James Gandolfini sat in during that famous final scene in The Sopranos. Gandolfini, who portrayed Tony Soprano on the popular HBO drama, was seated with his family in that final scene, enjoying dinner while Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’” played from a jukebox. The scene famously ended abruptly, cutting to black as Tony looked up from the table.

"We are currently renovating our booths at Holsten’s,” the eBay listing read. "This is your chance to own the ORIGINAL booth that the Soprano Family sat in for the final scene of the famous show!"

While viewers who watched the episode in 2007 thought their reception suddenly went out at the worst possible moment, the ending soon set off a debate that still rages 17 years later: Did Tony die?

In the years since, dozens of fan theories have emerged, with multiple YouTube videos explaining why he did or did not meet his demise in front of a plate of onion rings.

Diner Booth Used in The Sopranos Finale Sells on eBay

'The Sopranos' HBO

The winner of the auction will have the opportunity to recreate the iconic final scene at Holsten's, the New Jersey ice cream parlor and restaurant where it was filmed. The booth, table, and divider wall from the scene are all included in the listing. The wall even features a plaque that was added after the finale, which reads, "Reserved for the Sopranos Family."

In 2013, the booth at Holsten's gained new importance as a spontaneous memorial for Gandolfini following his passing. Fans visited the restaurant in the weeks after his death in June, leaving notes and tributes on the table. (Gandolfini passed away from a heart attack at 51 while on a family trip to Rome.)

When the bidding for the booth began, co-owner Chris Carley expected it to start at $3,000 and hoped it would sell for $10,000. Surprisingly, the final winning bid came in at $82,600.

Diner Booth Used in The Sopranos Finale Sells on eBay

Holsten’s/eBay

The name of the winner has not been disclosed yet. Just like in The Sopranos, we learn not to ask too many questions about the source of the money and to make sure that Holsten's is looked after.

The show's creator, David Chase, has not provided any clarification on the ending that sparked controversy. In a 2007 interview with The Star-Ledger, he stated, "I am not interested in explaining, defending, reinterpreting or expanding on what is already there."

And if you’re wondering, no, the jukebox was not included in the listing. The winner will have to scream-sing Journey a cappella like the rest of us.

Editor's P/S:

The Sotheby's auction of the "Sopranos" diner booth evoked profound emotions within me. As a devoted fan of the iconic television series, I couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia and longing for the show's unforgettable characters and moments. The sale of the booth serves as a tangible reminder of the show's enduring legacy and the enduring impact it has had on both popular culture and the lives of its viewers.

It is fascinating to consider the significance that a seemingly ordinary diner booth has garnered over the years. Through its association with the enigmatic Tony Soprano and the show's controversial ending, it has become a symbol of both the enduring power of television and the enduring mystery that surrounds the fate of one of its most beloved characters. The winning bid of $82,600 is a testament to the immense value that fans place on relics and artifacts from their favorite shows, and it underscores the enduring appeal of "The Sopranos."