Jerry Adler, the veteran actor who brought warmth and wit to television dramas, has died at the age of 96. Best remembered for his role as Hesh Rabkin on The Sopranos, Adler also earned admiration for his portrayal of Howard Lyman on The Good Wife. His passing was confirmed by family representatives, who shared that he “passed peacefully in his sleep.”
Though many fans came to know him later in life, Adler’s career stretched across decades of stage and screen. Before becoming a household name, he worked behind the scenes on Broadway, helping bring productions like My Fair Lady to life. His late rise as an actor proved that it is never too late to find lasting success, and his work on The Sopranos gave him a place in television history.
A Memorable Presence On The Sopranos
Adler’s role on The Sopranos was meant to be small, but it quickly grew into something special. Cast as Hesh Rabkin, an advisor and close friend to Tony Soprano, Adler offered a balance of sharp humor and seasoned wisdom throughout the show’s six seasons. “When David was going to do the pilot for The Sopranos, he called and asked me if I would do a cameo,” Adler explained in an interview later in life. “But when they picked up the show they liked the character, and I would come on every fourth week.”
For audiences, Hesh became a touchstone in the world of The Sopranos, someone who carried both the weight of history and the spark of levity. Adler’s performance proved that even supporting roles could leave a lasting mark, making him one of the series’ most cherished characters. Fans of the show continue to cite his presence as one of the elements that made the series feel authentic and layered.
A Career Beyond One Iconic Role
While his part on The Sopranos secured Adler’s legacy, his career encompassed far more. He appeared in television series like Brooklyn Bridge, Northern Exposure, and Hudson Street, along with films such as Manhattan Murder Mystery. His later success in The Good Wife further cemented his reputation as a versatile actor capable of commanding any screen.
Adler’s journey was unique, beginning as a stage manager and only turning to acting in his sixties. Yet in just a few decades, he became a familiar face to millions. His story serves as a reminder that passion and persistence can bring remarkable achievements at any stage of life. His work on The Sopranos and beyond ensures that his memory will live on in television history.’