James Gandolfini 'was given first aid' at Italian hotel

James Gandolfini, the US actor best known for his role as a therapy-seeking mob boss in The Sopranos, has died at the age of 51.

Family friend Michael Kobold said Gandolfini died of a heart attack while on holiday in Rome.

"Last night at approximately 10pm James Gandolfini, while on vacation in Rome, experienced a medical emergency," said Mr Kobold.

"The hotel notified emergency crew who responded and first aid was administered before Mr Gandolfini was taken to hospital where he died of an apparent heart attack."