Jerry Adler, the acclaimed actor known for his role as Hesh Rabkin on HBO’s critically acclaimed series The Sopranos, passed away on Saturday at the age of 96. His death was confirmed by an obituary from the Riverside Memorial Chapel in New York, although no further details were provided regarding the circumstances surrounding it. Friend and fellow actor Frank J. Reilly shared the news on social media, noting, “You know him from one of his iconic roles [and] from many of his guest appearances. Not bad for a guy who didn’t start acting until he was 65.”
Born into a theatrical family, Adler was the son of Phil Adler, the manager of the Group Theatre, and the nephew of renowned actor Jacob Pavlovich Adler. In an interview with the Southern New England Jewish Ledger in 2014, Adler reflected on his upbringing in the theater world. Before stepping into the spotlight, he made significant contributions behind the scenes in Broadway productions. Notably, he worked as a stage manager for the original 1956 production of My Fair Lady, which starred Julie Andrews and Rex Harrison, and later directed its revival in 1976.
Adler’s acting career began relatively late, with his first credit coming in 1991 through an episode of Brooklyn Bridge. Despite the late start, he quickly made a name for himself, appearing on popular television series such as Quantum Leap and Law & Order. His role as Hesh Rabkin, a confidante to the troubled mafia boss Tony Soprano portrayed by James Gandolfini, became one of his most recognized performances. Over the course of six seasons, Adler’s character served as a loan shark who provided guidance to younger members of the mafia.
Legacy in Television and Beyond
In addition to The Sopranos, Adler had memorable appearances in a variety of other successful shows, including Broad City, Curb Your Enthusiasm, and Transparent. His role as Howard Lyman on The Good Wife showcased his comedic talents, leading to a significant presence on the series. Robert King, co-creator of The Good Wife, expressed his admiration for Adler, stating that what was intended as a one-episode appearance turned into a six-year collaboration due to Adler’s remarkable performance. “He was so funny in a diner scene, yelling ‘I said ice cream, you stupid b—-,’” King recalled in a social media post.
Adler’s ability to seamlessly transition from behind the scenes to the forefront of the entertainment industry is a testament to his talent and dedication. Even after his initial acting credits, he continued to engage audiences with his performances, resulting in a total of 30 episodes across both The Good Wife and its spin-off, The Good Fight.
Jerry Adler leaves behind a rich legacy in the world of television and theater. His journey from a behind-the-scenes veteran to a beloved television figure serves as an inspiration to many aspiring actors. His contributions to the industry will not be forgotten, and he will be remembered fondly by fans and colleagues alike.
