hollywood mourns the loss of Jerry Adler, a veteran actor whose nuanced portrayals and scene-stealing presence⁤ captivated audiences for decades. Adler, best known for‌ his role as Herman ‘Hesh’ Rabkin in the‌ HBO drama the Sopranos and his recurring appearances on​ The Good Wife, died on Saturday, August 23,​ 2025, at the age of ⁢96, his family confirmed.

From Broadway Backstage⁣ to ‍the silver Screen

Adler’s journey in the entertainment industry ⁤began not in front of the⁣ camera, but behind it. Born in ​Brooklyn, New York, he⁢ initially found his footing on Broadway as a stage manager for the original 1956 production of Alan Jay lerner and ‌Frederick Loewe’s My⁢ Fair lady. This early experience provided a foundational understanding of the theatrical world, shaping‌ his later work as an ⁣actor. He transitioned to acting roles gradually, making his film debut in 1976 and appearing in critically⁣ acclaimed films‌ such ⁣as Woody Allen’s Manhattan Murder Mystery (1993) and Charlie Kaufman’s surreal masterpiece, Synecdoche, new York (2008).

However,‍ it was his portrayal of Herman ‘Hesh’ Rabkin ​in The Sopranos (1999-2007) that cemented his place in television history. As Tony Soprano’s trusted advisor and a key figure in the New Jersey mob, ‍Adler brought⁢ a quiet authority and subtle menace to the role, appearing ​in 28 episodes⁤ over six seasons. Hesh Rabkin wasn’t merely a supporting character; he represented a link to a bygone era of⁤ organized crime, offering a complex moral compass within the brutal world of the series.

A Late-Career Renaissance

Adler’s talent continued to shine brightly later in his‌ career. He took on roles⁤ in the FX drama Rescue Me (2004-2011) and, notably, The Good Wife (2009-2016). Initially intended for⁢ a single appearance, his performance as attorney Julian Baker proved so compelling that the role was expanded into‍ a recurring one, spanning multiple seasons. ​ This demonstrated‍ Adler’s ability⁤ to consistently deliver memorable performances, even ‌as ⁤his career entered a new phase.

New York Times">

Adler possessed a rare ability to convey volumes wiht⁤ a single glance or a carefully chosen word. He was a master of understated performance.

His work‍ garnered him⁣ widespread respect from peers and critics alike, establishing him as a reliable and captivating⁢ presence in both film and television. Adler’s passing marks the end of an era for character actors ⁢who brought depth and ⁣authenticity to their roles.

The Enduring‍ Legacy ‌of Character Actors

Jerry Adler’s career exemplifies the importance of character actors in ⁤storytelling. While leading⁢ roles often grab headlines,it’s the‍ supporting players who ⁤frequently provide the nuance,realism,and emotional resonance that elevate a production