Jerry Adler (February 4, 1929 – August 23, 2025) was a performer like few other. He became familiar only after decades of meaningful work behind the scenes. He found widespread acclaim late in life, capturing the hearts of television audiences with his witty presence and understated gravitas.
Roots in a Theatrical Legacy
He was born in Brooklyn into a family deeply entrenched in the world of Jewish and Yiddish theater. His creative lineage ran deep. His father, Philip Adler, managed the Group Theatre, while his cousins Stella and Luther Adler became noted figures in American drama.Adler’s early immersion in this vibrant environment would set the stage for his unique life in show business.
Behind the Scenes: A Broadway Journey
Adler began his career not in front of an audience, but also on backstage—gaining experience that would span decades. From assistant stage manager roles in productions like Gentlemen Prefer Blondes in the early 1950s to contributions in My Fair Lady, The Homecoming, and Annie, he became a trusted theatrical force. He held positions ranging from production management to directing, helping to bring over 50 Broadway shows to life.
A Career Pivot in His 60s
In the 1980s, after relocating to Los Angeles to be closer to family, Adler found work in daytime television—including on the soap Santa Barbara. He candidly described that era as the “twilight of a mediocre career,” until a nudge from a casting director led him to audition for a movie role in The Public Eye (1992). His performance impressed so much that it marked the start of a significant second act—this time on screen.
Television Breakthroughs: From The Sopranos to The Good Wife
Perhaps Adler’s most beloved role came in HBO’s The Sopranos (1999–2007), where he played Herman “Hesh” Rabkin. He portrayed a Jewish music producer and trusted advisor to mob boss Tony Soprano throughout the series. Originally planned as a cameo, the role grew into a recurring part across all six celebrated seasons. His steady presence made Hesh one of the most grounded and memorable characters in the show.
After The Sopranos, Adler appeared as Howard Lyman in CBS’s acclaimed legal drama The Good Wife. What began as a single guest appearance evolved into a recurring role that spanned multiple seasons.He later reprised Howard Lyman in the show’s successful spin-off, The Good Fight.
Adler also left his mark on several other popular television series.
His credits included Northern Exposure, Rescue Me, and Mad About You, where he played Mr. Wicker.
He appeared in Transparent and Broad City, showing his comedic range and versatility.
He also starred in Netflix’s Living with Yourself, among many other projects across his career.
Film and Return to Stage
Adler appeared in Manhattan Murder Mystery (1993), In Her Shoes (2005), Synecdoche, New York (2008), and A Most Violent Year (2014) on big screen.
Interestingly, he returned to Broadway—not behind the curtain, but in the spotlight—starring in Elaine May’s Taller Than a Dwarf in 2000 and Larry David’s Fish in the Dark in 2015.
Memoir and Reflections on Fame
In 2024, Adler published his memoir, Too Funny for Words: Backstage Tales from Broadway, Television and the Movies. These books captured his colorful journey and reflecting on his late-blooming success. In interviews, he not only expressed gratitude but also bemusement, as he achieved recognition later in life, since he once believed he was ‘too goofy-looking’ to act.Yet he joked that film made him “immortal.”
Final Curtain and Legacy
Jerry Adler passed away peacefully in his sleep on August 23, 2025, at his New York home. He was 96 years old and is survived by his wife, psychologist Joan Laxman (whom he married in 1994), and four daughters.AP NewsPeople.comLos Angeles Times
His life shows that perseverance and passion have no age limit, proving the most fulfilling role often comes when the spotlight finally finds you.