Veteran Actor Jerry Adler Dies at 96

Jerry Adler, a character actor from Brooklyn and a Broadway stage manager, died on Saturday, August 23, 2025. He was 96, as confirmed by his family. Adler’s career lasted over seven decades. He started behind the scenes on Broadway and later became a beloved star in acclaimed TV dramas.

Adler started his theater career in 1950 as an assistant stage manager for *Gentlemen Prefer Blondes*. He then supervised or directed over 50 Broadway shows, including the original 1956 production of *My Fair Lady*./em>. He grew up in the theater world but didn’t start acting until his early sixties. His cousin, the famous acting coach Stella Adler, inspired him.

His most memorable role was Herman “Hesh” Rabkin, Tony Soprano’s Jewish advisor in HBO’s The Sopranos. He played this character from 1999 to 2007, reaching a new generation of viewers. He later played the tough equity law partner Howard Lyman in CBS’s The Good Wife. This role was so popular that writers brought him back for the spin-off, The Good Fight. He also appeared as Deputy Chief Sidney Feinberg in FX’s Rescue Me./em>.

Tributes poured in from colleagues and fans alike. Robert King, the creator of The Good Wife, noted that Adler’s improvised diner scene led to a multi-year role. He called Adler “one of our favorite collaborators.” Close friend Frank J. Reilly praised Adler’s generosity. He noted that Adler helped get jobs for Reilly’s family on The Sopranos and Rescue Me./em>.

Adler is survived by his wife of 31 years, Joan Laxman. A private funeral service will be held in New York City, with a public memorial to be announced at a later date. His unique path from backstage Broadway veteran to adored TV actor leaves a lasting mark in both worlds.