Jerry Adler, a veteran of Broadway who later found fame on television as Hesh Rabkin in HBO’s The Sopranos, passed away on Saturday at the age of 96, according to an obituary from Riverside Memorial Chapel in New York.
Adler’s death was confirmed by his friend Frank J. Reilly, who wrote on X, “Not bad for a guy who didn’t start acting until he was 65.” With a career that spanned Broadway stages and groundbreaking television, Adler leaves behind a legacy of dedication, humor, and talent that resonated with both audiences and colleagues.
His Early Life
Adler, born into a storied theater family, was the son of Group Theatre manager Phil Adler and nephew of actor Jacob Pavlovich Adler.
He began his career behind the scenes, working as stage manager for the original 1956 production of My Fair Lady starring Julie Andrews and Rex Harrison.
Over the following decades, he directed and supervised numerous Broadway productions, including Annie and Marlene Dietrich.
Late Start in Acting
Despite his deep theater background, Adler did not begin acting until 1991, when he appeared on the CBS series Brooklyn Bridge at the age of 65.
That debut launched a second career, leading to roles on Quantum Leap, Law & Order, and a string of popular television shows.
Breakthrough on The Sopranos
Adler’s most memorable role came in the late 1990s when he was cast as Herman “Hesh” Rabkin, a trusted confidant and adviser to mob boss Tony Soprano, played by James Gandolfini.
Appearing throughout the series’ run, Adler’s Hesh was a sharp and occasionally humorous loan shark whose insights helped shape the drama.
“Sopranos” co-star Michael Imperioli paid tribute to Adler on Instagram, describing him as a “fantastic actor and the kindest of human beings” who brought “humor, intelligence and truth” to the role.
Other Television Work
Adler continued acting well into his later years, with appearances on Curb Your Enthusiasm, Broad City, Transparent, and a recurring role on The Good Wife.
Reflections on a Long Career
In a 2023 interview with CT Insider, Adler reflected on his unusual path, saying, “I had a glorious run.” He discussed his memoir Too Funny for Words, which chronicled his time in theater and television, adding that he still had more stories left to tell.
