Jerry Adler, Acclaimed Actor Known for ‘The Sopranos’ and ‘The Good Wife’, Passes Away at 96

Jerry Adler, Acclaimed Actor Known for ‘The Sopranos’ and ‘The Good Wife’, Passes Away at 96

Jerry Adler, a distinguished actor recognized for his memorable performances in ‘The Sopranos’ and ‘The Good Wife’, has died at the age of 96. On Saturday, his family shared that he ‘passed peacefully in his sleep.’

A Journey from the Stage to Screen

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Adler’s onscreen journey began later in life compared to many of his peers. Prior to achieving fame on screen, he honed his craft as a stage manager, director, and producer in numerous Broadway productions.

His tenure on Broadway included significant contributions to iconic shows like ‘My Fair Lady’. In the 1980s, Adler transitioned from Broadway to the television landscape in California, where he participated in various productions, including the soap opera ‘Santa Barbara’.

A Career Transforming Role

Despite appearing in multiple television series and films throughout the 1990s, Adler’s breakthrough moment arose through a nudge from a friend. Donna Isaacson, a casting director for ‘The Public Eye’ and a close associate of one of Adler’s daughters, encouraged him to audition for a role in the film starring Joe Pesci.

Following this pivotal audition, his acting career took flight. Adler’s role in ‘Northern Exposure’, a series penned by ‘Sopranos’ writer David Chase, led to his casting as Hesh Rabkin. This character became a fan favorite in the landmark television series ‘The Sopranos’, where he served as Tony Soprano’s trusted advisor for six seasons.

Hesh Rabkin: An Iconic Character

Adler reminisced about his initial involvement in ‘The Sopranos’. He recalled, ‘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. But when they picked up the show they liked the character, and I would come on every fourth week.’ His portrayal of Hesh Rabkin resonated with audiences and added depth to the show’s complex narrative.

The Transition to Legal Drama

Following his work on ‘The Sopranos’, Adler embraced another significant role as Howard Lyman in ‘The Good Wife’, starring alongside Julianna Margulies. His performances in both shows showcased his versatility as an actor and contributed to a lasting legacy in television.

A Tribute to a Beloved Actor

In the wake of his passing, Frank J. Reilly, a close friend of Adler’s, honored the actor’s contributions by sharing heartfelt memories. He expressed, ‘The great actor, my friend Jerry Adler died today at the age of 96. You know him from one of his iconic roles or from many of his guest appearances. Not bad for a guy who didn’t start acting until he was 65.’

Legacy and Surviving Family

Adler leaves behind a rich legacy in the entertainment industry, remembered fondly by fans and colleagues alike. He is survived by his four daughters, who will undoubtedly cherish their memories of a father who made significant strides later in life.

Throughout his career, Jerry Adler not only entertained but also inspired many within the acting community, paving the way for individuals who aspire to pursue their dreams, regardless of age.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.