The Jaw-Dropping Twist in The Sopranos Season 2 Finale – Unraveling the Shocking Ending
Season 2 of The Sopranos witnesses Tony's ascent as the acting boss of the DiMeo family, shaping his crew's future The riveting conclusion of the season will leave you captivated and craving for more
The Sopranos, airing on HBO in the early 2000s, captivated national audiences like few other TV shows. Even without the concept of streaming, this iconic series took viewers into the world of the Italian mafia, offering a modern twist on a story often portrayed in 1950s and 60s entertainment.
Following the journey of Tony Soprano (played by James Gandolfini), the show depicts his rise to power within the DiMeo family of New Jersey. Starting as a captain, or "capo," Tony struggles with the demands of violence and the constant threat of the law. The toll on his health becomes evident with panic attacks and fainting episodes, leading him to seek therapy - something that could be seen as a betrayal within his line of work.
The second season of The Sopranos is widely regarded as the best season of the series. It offers Tony the opportunity to act as the boss of the DiMeo family for the first time, further heightening the drama and suspense.
What Happens in The Sopranos Season 2?
The second season begins with Junior, Tony's uncle, placed under house arrest while awaiting trial for a stock fraud scam. In an effort to protect Tony, Junior claims to be the boss of the DiMeo family, diverting attention from his nephew and allowing him to continue managing their various business endeavors. However, despite this, Junior harbors resentment and envy towards Tony, desiring to be the actual boss.
Meanwhile, as Tony assembles his crew and assigns official roles within the DiMeo family, his close friend Sal "Big Pussy" Bonpensiero reappears after supposedly being in Puerto Rico to assist in funding his mistress's back surgery. Sal had abruptly disappeared some time ago, coincidentally following Tony's discovery of a federal informant within the family whom he had questioned. Despite Sal's sudden return, Tony remains suspicious, retaining his previous doubts.
Around the same time, Richie Aprile, the brother of the former DiMeo family boss, emerges back into the scene following the completion of his prison sentence. Eager initially by his return, Tony soon becomes aware of Richie's determined efforts to undermine his authority, frequently challenging various business decisions. In addition, Richie forms a clandestine alliance with Junior as they patiently await an opportunity to overthrow Tony as the head of the DiMeo family. Meanwhile, Tony's sister Janice reappears in town and becomes engaged to Richie.
In season 2 of the show, Tony's family becomes more involved, as tensions escalate between Tony, his wife, and children. However, the most significant family storyline revolves around Tony's nephew, Christopher Moltisanti. Christopher is working his way up in the DiMeo crime family and forms his own crew with Sean and Matthew. Overwhelmed by his new responsibilities, Christopher turns to drugs for relief. With Tony's guidance, he manages to overcome his addiction and refocus on his personal obligations. However, his crew perceives his newfound focus as a weakness and doubts his ability to help them advance.
As a result, Sean and Matthew start working for Richie, who orders them to eliminate Christopher. They attempt a drive-by shooting, but Chris survives and retaliates by killing Sean, leaving Matthew to flee the scene. Tony eventually tracks down Matthew and handles him, while Richie approaches Junior with a plan to eliminate Tony. Recognizing Richie's recklessness, Junior severs ties with him and alerts Tony of his secret partner's scheme.
How Does The Sopranos Season 2 End?
Before Tony can seek revenge on Richie, someone closer to him beats him to it, possibly even shooting Richie. Janice and Richie's relationship is toxic, with Richie regularly abusing her both physically and emotionally. One evening, Richie hits Janice, pushing her to the breaking point. She retrieves her handgun and shoots him point-blank in their own kitchen. Tony arrives and assists Janice in cleaning up and disposing of the body.
Later on, Tony visits Sal. However, this is not just a casual visit to his friend's house. Tony decides to search through some of Sal's belongings, and his worst fears are confirmed. He discovers a box containing recorders and wires, solidifying that Sal is indeed an FBI informant. Tony is compelled to take action, so he and the other mobsters invite Sal out on a boat. They kill him and then dispose of his body in the ocean.
After Sal's prolonged silence, fueling worrisome thoughts, the FBI apprehends Tony on unrelated charges in hopes of unearthing proof of his connection to Sal's vanishing. Their efforts yield no results, and they reluctantly release him. However, they intensify their surveillance as mounting evidence strongly indicates that Tony Soprano has indeed assumed the role of the DiMeo crime family's new leader.
