Jerry Adler of The Sopranos Passes Away at 96 Leaving an Iconic Legacy

The entertainment world is bidding farewell to one of its most iconic late-blooming stars. Jerry Adler, the veteran actor who became a household name for his unforgettable role as Herman “Hesh” Rabkin in HBO’s legendary series The Sopranos, died on Saturday at the age of 96, his family confirmed.

Born in Brooklyn, Adler left an indelible mark on stage and screen before passing away peacefully in New York City, surrounded by loved ones. In a heartfelt statement, his family proudly noted:

“Jerry was a resident of New York, New York.”

Story Highlights

• Jerry Adler, acclaimed for The Sopranos, dies at 96

• Played Herman “Hesh” Rabkin across 28 episodes in all six seasons

• Appeared in The Good Wife, The Good Fight, and Rescue Me

• Started on Broadway, stage-managing My Fair Lady

• Cousin of legendary acting teacher Stella Adler

• Worked with Woody Allen and Charlie Kaufman in major films

From Broadway Lights to Sopranos Fame

Before Adler became the sharp-tongued consigliere fans adored, he was a man of the stage. His early career saw him behind the curtains of Broadway’s biggest hits, including stage-managing the original production of “My Fair Lady.” It was a beginning few could have predicted would lead to a second act on television screens across America.

His roots ran deep in theater royalty—Adler was the cousin of the famed acting teacher Stella Adler, whose influence helped shape Hollywood’s golden generation.

The Sopranos: Where Jerry Adler Stole the Show

Adler’s portrayal of Herman “Hesh” Rabkin wasn’t just another role—it was a career-defining moment. Playing the quick-witted, sharp-talking Jewish consigliere, Adler became an integral part of The Sopranos storyline, appearing in 28 episodes spanning all six seasons. Fans loved his ability to deliver biting one-liners while holding his ground in Tony Soprano’s complicated world.

A Scene-Stealer on The Good Wife

Adler’s talent for humor and timing kept him in demand well into his later years. One anecdote perfectly sums up his staying power. Robert King, showrunner of The Good Wife, recalled on X:

“The intent was only to have him on one episode of The Good Wife,” King wrote.
“But he was so funny in a diner scene, yelling, ‘I said ice cream, you stupid b*tch,’ we had him back for six years of Good Wife and three years of Good Fight. One of our favorite collaborators.”

What was supposed to be a cameo turned into nearly a decade of work—proof that Adler knew how to own a scene better than most.

Film Roles and a Legacy of Craft

Adler didn’t just stick to TV. He popped up in some heavyweight films, including Woody Allen’s “Manhattan Murder Mystery” and Charlie Kaufman’s “Synecdoche, New York.” Always unpredictable, always memorable.

Farewell to a Legend Who Played the Long Game

In an industry obsessed with youth, Adler’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance. He was the ultimate late bloomer, proving that sometimes, the best innings come in the final overs of the game. If Hollywood were a ballpark, Jerry Adler would’ve been that veteran hitter who walks in during extra innings and smacks a home run.

Fans of The Sopranos and beyond will remember him not just as Hesh, but as the guy who turned one scene into six seasons, one role into a legacy.

Jerry Adler’s passing marks the end of an era for fans of The Sopranos and lovers of great character acting. From his roots on Broadway to his unforgettable television roles, Adler embodied the craft of performance with humor, intelligence, and charm. He was more than just Herman “Hesh” Rabkin—he was a storyteller who brought authenticity to every scene, whether on stage or screen. As the lights dim on a remarkable life, Adler’s legacy remains bright, proving that talent, like a well-written script, never fades.

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