Jerry Adler: Jewish ‘Sopranos’ Actor Dies at 96 | Legacy & Career

The world of entertainment mourns the loss of a late-blooming icon. Jerry Adler, the beloved Jewish actor best known for his role as Herman “Hesh” Rabkin in The Sopranos. He passed away on August 23, 2025, at the age of 96. Adler’s journey from Broadway’s backstage to television’s spotlight exemplifies resilience, talent, and the power of embracing one’s heritage. His career, which blossomed in his 60s, left an indelible mark on theater, film, and television, inspiring generations to come.

Early Life and Theatrical Roots

Born on February 4, 1929, in Brooklyn, New York, Jerry Adler was immersed in the world of performing arts from a young age. Growing up in a Yiddish-speaking, observant Jewish household, Adler was part of a theatrical dynasty. His great-uncle was the legendary Yiddish theater actor Jacob Pavlovich Adler. His cousins included Stella Adler, the renowned acting teacher, and Luther Adler, a celebrated actor. This environment nurtured his deep connection to both his Jewish identity and the arts.

Adler’s early career was spent behind the curtain. He worked as a Broadway stage manager and director for decades, contributing to iconic productions like My Fair Lady (1956), The Apple Tree (1966), and The Homecoming (1967). Despite working with legends like Katharine Hepburn and Zero Mostel, Adler remained largely unknown to the public. A reality he later described as humbling. “You spend your entire career behind the scenes. Nobody knows who you are… And then you do a TV show and suddenly you’re a celebrity,” he reflected in a 2017 interview.

Late-Blooming Acting Career

Adler’s transition to acting began at the age of 65 with a guest role in Brooklyn Bridge (1991). This late start did not hinder his success; instead, it fueled a prolific acting career spanning nearly three decades. His ability to portray ** nuanced Jewish characters** with authenticity quickly made him a sought-after talent.

Iconic Roles and Performances

• Herman “Hesh” Rabkin in The Sopranos (1999–2007): As a consigliere and longtime friend of Tony Soprano, Adler brought depth, wit, and cultural grounding to the role. Hesh was a Jewish loan shark and music industry veteran, whose moral complexity resonated with audiences.
• Howard Lyman in The Good Wife (2011–2016): Adler played a sharp, often humorous attorney, showcasing his versatility in drama and comedy.
• Rabbi Alan Schulman in Northern Exposure (1994–1995): His portrayal of a rabbi appearing in visions highlighted his ability to embody spiritual roles with warmth and authenticity.
• Moshe Pfefferman in Transparent (2017–2019): As the father of Jeffrey Tambor’s character, Adler explored themes of family, identity, and aging.

Jewish Identity: A Cornerstone of His Artistry

Adler’s Jewish heritage was not just a background detail; it was central to his artistry. He often played rabbis, Holocaust survivors, and Jewish patriarchs, roles that reflected his own cultural and religious experiences. In an interview, he noted the irony of spending decades unrecognized only to become famous for portraying characters that echoed his own life. This authenticity made his performances relatable and deeply human.

His work also extended beyond entertainment into community engagement. Jewish organizations were actively engaged with by Adler, and stories of resilience and faith were highlighted using his platform.

Behind the Scenes: Adler’s Directorial Legacy

While acting brought him fame, Adler’s contributions as a Broadway director and stage manager were equally significant. He directed the 1976 revival of My Fair Lady, earning a Drama Desk Award nomination. He worked on productions like Annie and I Remember Mama. His behind-the-scenes expertise informed his acting, allowing him to understand narratives from multiple perspectives.

Personal Life and Legacy

Jerry Adler married to psychologist Joan Laxman for over 30 years. Despite his busy career, he maintained a strong connection to family and community. A value ingrained in him from his upbringing.

Adler’s resilience was evident in both his personal and professional life. From navigating the challenges of Broadway to reinventing himself as an actor in his 60s, he embodied the idea that creativity has no age limit. His passing has been met with an outpouring of tributes from co-stars and fans. Ray Abruzzo, who played Little Carmine in The Sopranos, remembered him as “a lovely man with an amazing life in show business“.

Key Achievements and Roles

Conclusion: A Lasting Impact

Jerry Adler’s life reminds us that art is not bound by age, and identity can be a source of powerful storytelling. From the Broadway stage to the screens of millions, he left a legacy of resilience, authenticity, and cultural pride. As we remember him, let’s celebrate the lessons he embodied: that it’s never too late to pursue a passion, and that our heritage can be a wellspring of creativity.