Edie Falco, best known for her iconic role as Carmela Soprano on The Sopranos, is not just passionate about acting—she’s also a die-hard New York Knicks fan. On the latest episode of the “Roommates Show” podcast, hosted by Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart, Falco candidly opened up about her love for the Knicks, her grudge against Joel Embiid, and her personal reactions to the team’s recent trades.
Falco’s Grudge Against Joel Embiid
While many people know Falco for her tough-girl persona as Carmela, it turns out she carries that energy off-screen as well. The actress revealed that she’s still holding onto some strong feelings toward Joel Embiid, the star center for the Philadelphia 76ers.
During the podcast, Falco recounted an incident from last year’s playoffs, when Embiid elbowed Knicks guard Jalen Brunson during a tense first-round matchup. Falco was incensed by the move and admitted that she almost took matters into her own hands.
“Joel Embiid, he’s mean,” Falco said. “He like elbowed you in a game last year and I was going to go after him. I mean that’s how bad it was. And then I think I’ve seen you guys play since then and you guys are all like cool with each other. I’m like, ‘You don’t hold a grudge?’”
The incident Falco was referring to occurred during Game 5 of the series, when Embiid extended his elbow and struck Brunson in the head as Brunson was cutting to the basket. Despite the obvious frustration from Brunson at the time, Embiid got away with the foul, and the Knicks still managed to win the series in six games.
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Brunson’s Take on Holding Grudges
While Falco seemed genuinely upset by Embiid’s actions, Brunson had a different perspective. He explained that although he doesn’t typically hold grudges, there’s an understanding and respect between him and Embiid, which dates back to before either player made it to the NBA.
“I don’t hold grudges, for the most part,” Brunson explained. “Yeah, I hold grudges, who am I to lie? But I’ve known Joel from before I even got in the league. I’ve met him a couple times. It’s just respect there. I think there’s a certain line where there’s respect and you’re all competing and once it’s done, it’s good. I wouldn’t say it’s cool, I would say it’s good.”
Falco’s Deep Knicks Loyalty
A Brooklyn native, Falco has been a loyal Knicks fan for many years, especially during her time working on The Sopranos. Her attachment to the team runs deep, and she shared her emotional reaction to the Knicks’ recent trade involving Karl-Anthony Towns. The blockbuster deal, which saw Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo sent to the Minnesota Timberwolves, hit Falco harder than she expected.
“You would think I would be better at managing trades than I am,” Falco said. “I don’t know who’s in charge of making these decisions, but they gotta talk to the fans. A bunch of us really fell apart this last one. I’m coming around, the new guys are great.”
For Falco, being a Knicks fan is about more than just the team’s success on the court. It’s about the players and the personal connections fans build with them.
“You’re a Knick fan, but what does it mean to be a Knick fan? Just that they play in the Garden? It’s the guys. It’s the guys you get attached to. It’s the way they play together and the interactions and the inside jokes and whatever you guys all have that reads. You get rid of a couple of those guys, I was like, ‘Are you f–king kidding me? You can’t do that.’”
The Emotional Impact of Trades
Falco’s emotional attachment to the team was clear as she discussed how the trade affected her. “It’s not healthy, man. I have kids and a life and stuff and I absolutely fell apart,” she admitted, highlighting just how personally connected she is to the Knicks and their roster.
Falco’s reactions reflect the deep passion shared by many fans who feel that the Knicks are more than just a team—they are a part of their lives. The trades, especially the departure of beloved players, can feel like a betrayal.
The Knicks and the Future
As the Knicks move forward this season, they will certainly have their ups and downs. For Falco, her love for the team remains steadfast, but like many fans, she’s still processing the changes. Whether the team continues to perform well or struggles, Falco’s connection to the Knicks is clear: it’s not just about the wins or losses, but about the people and the culture that fans like her hold so dearly.
For now, she’ll continue to cheer on the team from the sidelines, grudge in hand, and hoping that the next set of decisions will be a little more fan-friendly.
