Jerry Adler, best known for his role as consigliere Herman 'Hesh' Rabkin in HBO's iconic mob drama "The Sopranos," has passed away at the age of 96, according to representatives who confirmed he “died peacefully in his sleep” this past Saturday.
Adler’s impressive career began far earlier, having made significant strides in the theater world long before his onscreen fame. He wasn’t a conventional actor—he didn't take on acting until the early stages of his retirement from a rich background as a stage manager and director on Broadway. After more than three decades of working behind the scenes, he initially entered the acting landscape in his early 60s, a unique trajectory that highlights both his versatility and late-blooming talent.
Born in Brooklyn, Adler was encouraged towards the performing arts from a young age, especially since his father was already involved in the theater industry. His initial major role was in the 1956 production of "My Fair Lady," with a 20-year-old Julie Andrews. He also stage managed other prominent productions like “Coco,” starring Katharine Hepburn, and helped to supervise the legendary musical "Annie" in 1977.
It wasn't until the 1980s that Adler transitioned to television, where he stage managed several events, including the Tony Awards. His acting career truly took off after receiving a phone call from a friend who cast him in the 1992 film "The Public Eye." He further solidified his film credentials with roles in "Manhattan Murder Mystery" (1993) and "Getting Away with Murder" (1996).
However, it was his defining turn as Hesh Rabkin on "The Sopranos" that left an indelible mark on viewers. The character, serving as an advisor to mob boss Tony Soprano, resonated with audiences and became a beloved fixture in the series. Adler continued to receive recognition and worked again on high-profile series like CBS’s "The Good Wife" and its spin-off "The Good Fight," as well as FX’s "Rescue Me."
In addition to his part in "The Sopranos," Adler held memorable roles, such as Rabbi Alan Schulman in "Northern Exposure" and Mr. Wicker in "Mad About You." He frequently made guest appearances on esteemed series, including "Curb Your Enthusiasm" and "The West Wing."
Returning to Broadway later in life—first in the comedy "Taller than a Dwarf" and then in Larry David’s "Fish in the Dark"—Adler’s legacy is a remarkable narrative of resilience, adaptability, and the power of pursuing one's passion, irrespective of age. His contributions to stage and screen remain a celebrated part of American entertainment history.
