Jerry Adler, the beloved actor famed for his role as Herman 'Hesh' Rabkin in HBO’s critically acclaimed series The Sopranos, has died at the age of 96. Adler, who transitioned to acting later in life, became a significant figure in the entertainment industry after a long and successful career in theater.
Born in Brooklyn, New York, Adler did not step into the acting spotlight until his early 60s, just as he was contemplating retirement from an impressive behind-the-scenes career on Broadway. Over three decades, he collaborated with some of the most renowned names in the business, such as Julie Andrews, Angela Lansbury, and Richard Burton.
Adler’s theatrical journey commenced when he was offered his first job by his father while studying at university. He quickly made a name for himself as a stage manager and supervisor on over 50 Broadway productions, including the iconic 1956 rendition of My Fair Lady starring a young Julie Andrews and the original production of Annie in 1977.
His early television career began in the 1980s when he stage-managed high-profile events, including the prestigious Tony Awards. However, it was a phone call from a friend about a role in the 1992 film The Public Eye that prompted Adler to pursue acting full-time, leading to various film roles and significant success on television.
Adler's portrayal of Hesh provided a credible yet endearing perspective on the mob world, earning him widespread recognition while sharing the screen with James Gandolfini’s iconic character, Tony Soprano. Beyond The Sopranos, he appeared in several notable TV series, including CBS's The Good Wife and FX’s Rescue Me. His talent also left a mark on shows like Northern Exposure and Mad About You, highlighting his versatility as an actor.
Celebrated for his dedication to his craft, Adler returned to Broadway in 2000 with the play Taller than a Dwarf and continued to shine in 2015’s Fish in the Dark, illustrating his profound love for both theater and performance.
Adler is remembered not only for his remarkable on-screen presence but also for his invaluable contributions behind the scenes, leaving a lasting impact on both the stage and television landscapes. His representatives confirmed that he "passed peacefully in his sleep" this past Saturday, a testament to the life he led and the legacy he leaves behind.
