Jerry Adler, celebrated for his roles in The Sopranos and The Good Wife, has died at the age of 96 in New York. The news was confirmed by the Riverside Memorial Chapel, following a brief family announcement. According to Sarah Shulman of Paradigm Talent Agency, Adler “passed peacefully in his sleep.” No immediate cause of death was provided.
Adler’s portrayal of Tony Soprano’s adviser, Hesh Rabkin, across all six seasons of The Sopranos, and his role as law partner Howard Lyman in The Good Wife, cemented his status as a beloved character actor. However, his illustrious career began long before his television fame, with a significant impact on Broadway.
From Broadway to Television: A Storied Career
Before stepping in front of the camera, Jerry Adler had already made his mark on Broadway, contributing to 53 productions as a stage manager, producer, or director. His behind-the-scenes work included involvement in the original production of My Fair Lady and collaborations with luminaries such as Marlene Dietrich, Julie Andrews, and Richard Burton.
Adler’s roots in the entertainment industry ran deep. He hailed from a family with significant ties to Jewish and Yiddish theatre. His father, Philip Adler, served as a general manager for the esteemed Group Theatre and various Broadway productions, while his cousin, Stella Adler, was a legendary acting teacher.
“I’m a creature of nepotism,” Adler once remarked in a 2015 interview with TheaterMania. “I got my first job when I was at Syracuse University and my father, the general manager of Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, called me [because] there was an opening for an assistant stage manager. I skipped school.”
A Late Blooming Acting Career
Adler transitioned to television during Broadway’s downturn in the 1980s, moving to California where he contributed to productions like the soap opera Santa Barbara. Despite considering retirement, a timely intervention by casting director Donna Isaacson led to his breakthrough in front of the camera.
His early television roles included a part on the David Chase-written Northern Exposure, which eventually led to his iconic role in The Sopranos. “When David was going to do the pilot for The Sopranos he called and asked me if I would do a cameo of Hesh. It was just supposed to be a one-shot,” Adler told Forward in 2015. “But when they picked up the show they liked the character, and I would come on every fourth week.”
Adler’s television career spanned over three decades, with credits in series such as Rescue Me, Mad About You, Transparent, and guest appearances on shows ranging from The West Wing to Broad City.
Legacy and Impact
Jerry Adler’s passing marks the end of an era for fans of both stage and screen. His ability to transition from a successful career behind the scenes to a beloved character actor is a testament to his versatility and talent. Adler’s work continues to influence aspiring actors and directors, underscoring the lasting impact of his contributions to the arts.
As the entertainment industry reflects on his legacy, Adler’s life serves as a reminder of the rich history of American theatre and television, and the profound influence of family and tradition in shaping artistic careers.
Adler’s family and colleagues remember him not only for his professional achievements but also for his warmth and generosity. His death leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew him and appreciated his work.
As the world bids farewell to Jerry Adler, his remarkable journey from the stages of Broadway to the screens of beloved television shows remains an inspiring story of dedication and passion.
