As the news settles in, the entertainment industry mourns the loss of Jerry Adler, best known for his portrayal of Herman 'Hesh' Rabkin on HBO's legendary series, The Sopranos. He passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 96, a representative confirmed to news outlets, including Fox News and the Associated Press.
Born in Brooklyn, Adler's early career was deeply rooted in Broadway. He spent more than 30 years behind the scenes before stepping into the spotlight, having worked with luminaries such as Julie Andrews, Angela Lansbury, and Richard Burton. His experience in the theater began when he was hired by his father during his university years, leading him to a role as a stage manager, supervisor, and director across more than 50 productions.
Adler's notable credits include the original 1956 production of My Fair Lady and the 1977 musical Annie. His TV career began in the 1980s as he stage-managed various productions, including the Tony Awards. It wasn't until he received a casting call for the 1992 film The Public Eye that he decided to pursue acting, catalyzing a significant shift in his career.
In addition to his famed role in The Sopranos, Adler appeared in films such as Manhattan Murder Mystery and Getting Away with Murder. He also had supporting roles in popular TV series including The Good Wife, The Good Fight, and FX's Rescue Me, amongst others.
Eventually, Adler made his way back to Broadway as an actor in the early 2000s, culminating in performances in the 2015 play Fish in the Dark, completing a remarkable circular journey in his storied career. His contributions to both stage and screen will be remembered as a testament to his talent and dedication to the arts.
Born in Brooklyn, Adler's early career was deeply rooted in Broadway. He spent more than 30 years behind the scenes before stepping into the spotlight, having worked with luminaries such as Julie Andrews, Angela Lansbury, and Richard Burton. His experience in the theater began when he was hired by his father during his university years, leading him to a role as a stage manager, supervisor, and director across more than 50 productions.
Adler's notable credits include the original 1956 production of My Fair Lady and the 1977 musical Annie. His TV career began in the 1980s as he stage-managed various productions, including the Tony Awards. It wasn't until he received a casting call for the 1992 film The Public Eye that he decided to pursue acting, catalyzing a significant shift in his career.
In addition to his famed role in The Sopranos, Adler appeared in films such as Manhattan Murder Mystery and Getting Away with Murder. He also had supporting roles in popular TV series including The Good Wife, The Good Fight, and FX's Rescue Me, amongst others.
Eventually, Adler made his way back to Broadway as an actor in the early 2000s, culminating in performances in the 2015 play Fish in the Dark, completing a remarkable circular journey in his storied career. His contributions to both stage and screen will be remembered as a testament to his talent and dedication to the arts.
