Jerry Adler, the talented actor famed for his portrayal of Herman 'Hesh' Rabkin on HBO's iconic series The Sopranos, has passed away at the age of 96. Although he became a household name later in life, Adler's journey in the performing arts began long before he transitioned to acting. He was initially entrenched in the world of Broadway, where he made significant contributions behind the scenes.
Born in Brooklyn, Adler's illustrious career spanned over three decades and included collaborations with legendary figures such as Julie Andrews, Angela Lansbury, and Richard Burton. It wasn't until his early 60s, while contemplating retirement, that he shifted his focus to acting, responding to a casting opportunity for the film The Public Eye in 1992.
Known for his serene yet impactful presence on screen, Adler became a fixture in the television landscape. He enjoyed memorable roles beyond The Sopranos, including appearances in CBS's The Good Wife and its spin-off The Good Fight, as well as FX's Rescue Me. His versatility also allowed him to portray Rabbi Alan Schulman on Northern Exposure and the handyman Mr. Wicker on Mad About You.
Echoing his return to acting, Adler graced the Broadway stage as an actor in the 2000 play Taller than a Dwarf and later in 2015’s Fish in the Dark, embracing the full circle of his career. His representatives confirmed he "passed peacefully in his sleep" on Saturday, leaving behind a rich legacy in both theater and television. His unique journey reminds us that talent can shine at any age.
Born in Brooklyn, Adler's illustrious career spanned over three decades and included collaborations with legendary figures such as Julie Andrews, Angela Lansbury, and Richard Burton. It wasn't until his early 60s, while contemplating retirement, that he shifted his focus to acting, responding to a casting opportunity for the film The Public Eye in 1992.
Known for his serene yet impactful presence on screen, Adler became a fixture in the television landscape. He enjoyed memorable roles beyond The Sopranos, including appearances in CBS's The Good Wife and its spin-off The Good Fight, as well as FX's Rescue Me. His versatility also allowed him to portray Rabbi Alan Schulman on Northern Exposure and the handyman Mr. Wicker on Mad About You.
Echoing his return to acting, Adler graced the Broadway stage as an actor in the 2000 play Taller than a Dwarf and later in 2015’s Fish in the Dark, embracing the full circle of his career. His representatives confirmed he "passed peacefully in his sleep" on Saturday, leaving behind a rich legacy in both theater and television. His unique journey reminds us that talent can shine at any age.
