The first episode of the last season of "The Sopranos" drew 7.66 million total viewers — "a solid audience but well below the 9.47 million drawn to the first episode of its previous season in March 2006," notes Variety. "The premiere of the third season of 'Entourage,' which scored 3.77 million viewers, was up 40% over the viewer number for the second-season kickoff.

"Meanwhile, there was mixed news for Showtime's second episode of 'The Tudors.' Facing off against tougher competish this week, Sunday's seg attracted 775,000 combined viewers between its two telecasts. That's down 39% from the skein's premiere night a week ago, when 1.28 million viewers watched the show. The good news: 'Tudors' is still tracking on par with Showtime's last big series, 'Dexter.' That skein averaged 719,000 viewers in its second outing, falling 31% from its bow. Viewing levels also increased as the episode unfolded, indicating viewers liked what they saw.

"Showtime on Tuesday also touted final weeklong ratings for its multiple airings of the 'Tudors' premiere. All told, skein attracted 2.05 million viewers over its several airings, a 9% gain over what 'Dexter' averaged its first week."

Photo: Edie Falco and James Gandolfini have each won three lead-acting Emmys. "The Sopranos" won best drama series once — in 2004. (ATAS)