Jerry Adler, beloved for his role as Hesh Rabkin on The Sopranos, passes away at 96. From Broadway to Hollywood, Adler’s career spanned decades. Read about his inspiring journey.
One of the remarkable actors who helped elevate HBO’s The Sopranos into a cultural sensation has passed away. Jerry Adler, who brought the character Hesh Rabkin to life on the hit series, died at the age of 96.
A New York native, Adler’s legacy spans decades across Broadway, film, and television. He was known not only for his role in The Sopranos but also for his vast experience as a producer, director, and stage manager in the world of theater.
A Journey from Broadway to Hollywood
Born in Brooklyn in 1929, Adler’s career wasn’t the traditional Hollywood trajectory. Instead, he spent many years working behind the scenes in theater before making his on-screen debut in his 60s. He was deeply embedded in the world of Broadway, racking up 53 credits as a stage manager, producer, and director in productions such as My Fair Lady, alongside legends like Katharine Hepburn, Orson Welles, and Julie Andrews.
Adler came from a family deeply rooted in the entertainment industry. His father, Phil Adler, was the general manager of the famous Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, and his cousin, Stella Adler, was a renowned actress and acting teacher. “I’m a creature of nepotism,” Adler once joked, acknowledging the influence his family had on his career.
A Surprising Shift to Acting
While Adler had spent years in the theater, he never initially considered acting. However, in the early ’90s, a family friend, casting director Donna Isaacson, urged him to try it. He had always been behind the scenes, but after auditioning for the film The Public Eye, he impressed director Howard Franklin so much that it marked the beginning of his on-screen career. That chance led to Adler’s first television role on Northern Exposure, but it was his role in The Sopranos that cemented his legacy.
Hesh Rabkin: A Memorable Role in The Sopranos
Adler’s portrayal of Hesh Rabkin in The Sopranos made him a household name. Hesh, a trusted advisor to Tony Soprano, played a crucial role in the storyline. Originally intended as a one-episode cameo, the character was so beloved by audiences that Adler returned frequently throughout the series. Fans fondly recall Hesh’s sharp wit and memorable lines, particularly his comedic timing, which brought a unique charm to the show.
One fan favorite moment occurred during a funeral scene when the rabbi asked if anyone had something nice to say about the deceased, only for a voice in the back of the synagogue to shout, “His brother was worse.”
A Legacy in Film and Television
Beyond The Sopranos, Adler made appearances in various TV shows, including The Good Wife, Rescue Me, Transparent, and Broad City. He also starred in Woody Allen’s Manhattan Murder Mystery and had a notable role as a judge on Law & Order. Adler was equally passionate about theater, returning to Broadway in 2000 for Taller Than a Dwarf and later appearing in Larry David’s Fish in the Dark in 2015.
Despite his late start in acting, Adler never lost his love for the craft. In fact, in his 2015 memoir, Too Funny for Words, he shared anecdotes from his colorful career, proving that it’s never too late to follow your dreams.
A Full Life and Family Legacy
Adler passed away peacefully on August 23, 2025, in his New York City home, surrounded by family. He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Joan Laxman, and their four daughters: Alisa, Amy, Laura, and Emily.
Jerry Adler’s incredible career reminds us that passion knows no age. He lived a full life, from the theater stages of Broadway to the iconic roles on TV and film. His contributions to the entertainment industry will forever be remembered, and his inspiring story serves as a testament to the power of never giving up on your dreams.
Rest in Peace, Jerry Adler
Adler’s passing marks the end of an era for fans and colleagues who admired his work both on-screen and behind the scenes. He leaves behind a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of artists and actors.
