Jerry Adler, Beloved ‘Sopranos‘ and ‘The Good Wife’ Actor, Dies at 96
New York, NY – Jerry Adler, the character actor best known for his memorable role as Hesh Rabkin in HBO’s groundbreaking series The Sopranos, has died at the age of 96. His family confirmed the news in a statement released Sunday.While widely recognized for his portrayal of Tony Soprano’s trusted advisor, Adler’s career spanned decades before he stepped in front of the camera, beginning a remarkable acting journey at the age of 62.
For years, Adler worked behind the scenes as a Broadway stage director. he was part of the original team for the iconic 1956 production of My Fair Lady, starring Julie Andrews, and later directed productions of Fiddler on the roof and Return to Home.Having seemingly resigned himself to a career directing, Adler was encouraged by friends to audition for a role in the 1992 film Indiscreet Look, starring Joe Pesci. The director, struck by Adler’s resemblance to his own father, gave him a chance, launching an unexpected late-career as a performer.
This single opportunity opened doors to a string of roles, including appearances in Woody Allen’s Manhattan Murder Mystery (1993) and television shows like Rescue Me, Mad About you, Clear, and Mozart in the Jungle.
Though, it was his role as Hesh Rabkin in The Sopranos that catapulted Adler to international fame. initially intended for sporadic appearances, his character’s undeniable charisma and popularity with viewers made him a recurring and beloved fixture on the show.
Tributes have been pouring in from colleagues and fans.Steve Van Zandt, co-star of The Sopranos and rock musician, shared a heartfelt message on X (formerly Twitter): “It was an honor to work with you. Travel well, friend.”
Robert King, a screenwriter for The Good Wife, recounted a humorous anecdote about Adler’s time on the show, also on X: “The intention was to only use him for one episode of The Good Wife, but he was so funny screaming ‘I said ice cream, stupid fox!’ in a restaurant scene, we brought him back for six years of Good Wife and three years of Good Fight. One of our favorite collaborators.”
Friend Frank J. Reilly also mourned the loss, stating, “The great actor, my friend Jerry Adler, died today at age 96. Not bad for someone…”
Jerry Adler’s late-blooming career is a testament to talent and the power of taking chances. He leaves behind a legacy of memorable performances and a lasting impact on the world of television and theater.
Keywords: Jerry Adler, Sopranos, The Good Wife, Hesh Rabkin, Broadway, actor, obituary, death, Steve Van Zandt, Robert King, Tony Soprano, television, theater, entertainment news.
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