yes that was a surprise, but tony has too much to handle to die.
This is probably what leads to the run out scene of AJ.
Which might lead to him attempting mob leadership.
He is too soft.
My opinion's mixed on the ending. If the show goes through with it, its one of the most daring things a television show has ever done--but, the show loses its raison d'etre. On the other hand, pulling back and "J.R."-ifying it in some way would be downright cowardly and cheesy. I guess we'll see.