Sopranos Producers Caught Up in Film Permit Row  3/9/07

Council officials in Bloomfield, New Jersey have denied producers of The Sopranos a permit to film in their town - because they don't like the way the show depicts Italian-Americans.

The decision has irked some locals, especially those who were set to benefit from the planned filming.

The owners of one ice cream parlor that was to feature in what is believed to be the series' final scene have slammed Bloomfield Mayor Raymond McCarthy and other council members who voted against the permit, accusing them of letting "personal feelings" get in the way of what's best for the townsfolk.

The Mayor's wife is Italian and has been an outspoken critic of the show.

Filming permits were originally approved last week (ends02MAR07) and then rejected on Monday (05MAR07).

The issue will be reconsidered for a third and final time next week (12MAR07).