The entertainment world mourns the loss of a revered character actor whose career proved it’s never too late to become a star. Jerry Adler, the esteemed Broadway veteran who found television fame in his later years as the wise and weary Hesh Rabkin on the iconic series The Sopranos, has passed away. His family confirmed he died on August 23, 2025, in New York City. He was 96.
Adler’s journey was a testament to perseverance and passion, beginning not in front of the camera but behind the curtain of some of Broadway’s most legendary productions.
How Did Jerry Adler Begin His Career in Entertainment?
Long before he became a familiar face on screen, Jerry Adler was a foundational force behind the scenes. Born in Brooklyn on February 4, 1929, Adler built a formidable reputation as a stage manager and production supervisor. His meticulous work shaped iconic Broadway shows, including My Fair Lady and The Apple Tree. He collaborated with theatrical giants, from Katherine Hepburn to Harold Pinter, and was known for his sharp wit and unparalleled professionalism. This deep-rooted experience in live theater provided the foundation for the nuanced performances he would later deliver on camera, bringing a stage actor’s precision to every role.
A Triumphant Second Act On Screen
Adler’s transition from backstage maestro to on-screen actor was nothing short of remarkable. He made his acting debut at the age of 62 in the 1991 series Brooklyn Bridge. This late start ignited a prolific second act. His breakthrough came in 1999 when he was cast as Herman “Hesh” Rabkin, the seasoned, music-producer consigliere to James Gandolfini’s Tony Soprano. Adler’s portrayal of Hesh was a masterclass in subtlety, embodying a character who was both a loyal friend and a shrewd businessman navigating the dangerous waters of the New Jersey mob. The role made him a household name and showcased his ability to hold his own among acting heavyweights.
Legacy Beyond the Mob
While The Sopranos defined his screen legacy, Adler’s talent extended far beyond the world of organized crime. He became a beloved recurring character on The Good Wife as the delightfully persistent lawyer Howard Lyman, a role that started as a one-off but was expanded due to audience and critic acclaim. His filmography is a map of quality television, with appearances in Mad About You, Northern Exposure, and Transparent. Adler also triumphantly returned to Broadway as an actor, starring in productions like Larry David’s Fish in the Dark in 2015, beautifully closing the loop on a lifetime dedicated to the stage.
Jerry Adler’s passing marks the end of an era for both Broadway and television, leaving behind a rich legacy that celebrates a life devoted to the craft of storytelling. From managing the chaos behind the curtain to delivering unforgettable performances in front of the camera, his career is an inspiration. His work as the iconic Jerry Adler Sopranos character Hesh will continue to be discovered and cherished by new generations of fans. He is survived by his wife, Joan Laxman.
Must Know
Q: Who was Jerry Adler in The Sopranos?
A: Jerry Adler played Herman “Hesh” Rabkin, a longtime friend, financial advisor, and respected Jewish elder in the Soprano crime family circle.
Q: How old was Jerry Adler when he started acting?
A: Jerry Adler began his on-screen acting career later in life, making his debut at the age of 62.
Q: What other TV shows was Jerry Adler known for?
A: Beyond The Sopranos, Adler was widely recognized for his recurring role as lawyer Howard Lyman on the CBS drama The Good Wife and its spin-off, The Good Fight.
Q: Did Jerry Adler work on Broadway?
A: Yes, initially as a highly respected stage manager for major productions like My Fair Lady, and later as an actor in plays like Fish in the Dark.
জুমবাংলা নিউজ সবার আগে পেতে Follow করুন জুমবাংলা গুগল নিউজ, জুমবাংলা টুইটার , জুমবাংলা ফেসবুক, জুমবাংলা টেলিগ্রাম এবং সাবস্ক্রাইব করুন জুমবাংলা ইউটিউব চ্যানেলে।
