Twenty years after The Sopranos left an indelible mark on television, its legacy continues to influence pop culture in unexpected ways. Now, one of its beloved stars is bringing a taste of that mobster magic to the animated world of Disney Channel. Steve Schirripa, known for his role as Bobby Bacala on the iconic HBO series, is stepping into the shoes of a new, equally memorable character in Big City Greens Season 5.
In the upcoming episode titled "Wise Gals," Schirripa voices Don Ravioli, a sinister mob boss who runs a restaurant with a deadly secret. The exclusive first look, shared by Collider, shows Nancy and Gloria waking up tied together, dangling precariously over a bubbling pot of pasta sauce. It's a classic mob-style execution, but with a comedic twist that only Big City Greens can deliver.
The episode kicks off when Nancy, worried that she's become too boring, decides to take Gloria out for a night on the town. Their fun takes a dangerous turn when they dine and dash from the wrong establishment—Don Ravioli's. The don is not amused and orders his goons to lower them into the boiling vat. However, his nephew Gio interrupts, pleading with his uncle to give up the stereotypical mob antics. But Don Ravioli is having none of it, insisting that dropping people into tomato sauce is "cool" and that Gio is just too young to appreciate the mafia's allure.
Schirripa's return to his mobster roots is a treat for fans. He shared his excitement, saying, "Voicing the role of Don Ravioli on Big City Greens brought back some fond memories of my years on The Sopranos, and just like The Sopranos, this episode is smart, dramatic, and hilariously funny. I loved it!!"
This isn't the first time Big City Greens has attracted big-name talent. Season 5 has already welcomed Dylan Sprouse back to Disney, and the guest list includes Stephen King, Luke Combs, Chad Michael Murray, Megan Stalter, Kevin Smith, Jason Mewes, Cobie Smulders, Clark Gregg, and Mike Colter. The main voice cast features Chris Houghton, Marieve Herington, Bob Joles, Artemis Pebdani, Zeno Robinson, Wendi McLendon-Covey, and Anna Akana.
For those who miss the golden era of mob dramas, this episode offers a lighthearted nod to the genre. If you're craving more gritty crime stories, check out our list of shows to fill the Sopranos void. And if you're a fan of Schirripa's work, you might also enjoy NCIS's recent ratings surge.
"Wise Gals" airs on Disney Channel on November 7, followed by a Disney+ release later in the month. The episode is part of a double feature that also includes "Big Sweeper," where Grandpa Nick must knit a giant sweater after ruining Smalton's prized roadside attraction. It's a weekend of laughs and chaos for the Green family.
As Big City Greens continues to blend humor with heart, this mobster-themed episode is sure to be a standout. Whether you're a longtime fan of the show or a Sopranos enthusiast, Schirripa's performance adds a layer of nostalgia and fun that's not to be missed.
