Jerry Adler

Jerry Adler (1929–2025) was an American actor whose journey from behind-the-scenes Broadway veteran to acclaimed television and film star is nothing short of extraordinary.

Early Life & Theatrical Roots

Born on February 4, 1929, in New York City, Adler emerged from a family deeply rooted in theater. His father, Philip Adler, served as general manager for the Group Theatre and multiple Broadway productions, while his cousin, the legendary acting teacher Stella Adler, shaped generations of performers.

A “creature of nepotism,” he humorously recalled starting his career while at Syracuse University—“I skipped school” to become an assistant stage manager on Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, thanks to his father’s influence.

A Lifetime Behind the Scenes

For decades, Adler toiled backstage, contributing to 53 Broadway productions—as a stage manager, producer, or director. His credits include the original My Fair Lady, and work with luminaries such as Marlene Dietrich, Julie Andrews, and Richard Burton.

He even returned to Broadway in later years as an actor, appearing in Elaine May’s Taller Than a Dwarf (2000) and Larry David’s debut play Fish in the Dark (2015).

A Surprising Screen Debut — In His 60s

Adler didn’t transition onscreen until he was in his early sixties. His first acting role came in 1991’s Brooklyn Bridge—a guest appearance that opened the door to a fruitful second act.

A casting director friend encouraged him to audition for The Public Eye, and though he was initially shy about acting, he quickly discovered a new path.

This led to a steady flow of roles: Northern Exposure, a Woody Allen film (Manhattan Murder Mystery), and numerous TV appearances over the next 30+ years.

Defining Roles & Cultural Impact

• Herman “Hesh” Rabkin—His signature role on HBO’s The Sopranos (1999–2007), appearing across six seasons as Tony Soprano’s advised confidant. Adler was initially cast for a cameo, but his portrayal became a recurring highlight.
• Howard Lyman—On The Good Wife (2011–2016) and its spinoff The Good Fight, this delightful foil became beloved by audiences and creators alike

Other notable roles included:

• Mr. Wicker in Mad About You
• Sidney Feinberg in Rescue Me
• Moshe Pfefferman in Transparent
• Guest spots in Broad City, The West Wing, Raising Dad, Living with Yourself, and more

Quotes & Reflections

Adler—once self-conscious about his appearance—found unexpected fame later in life.

“I’m immortal,” he joked when his work began to outlast him on screen.

He reflected on the importance of staying active creatively:

“I think retirement is a road to nowhere… I wouldn’t know what to do if I were retired. Meanwhile, this is great.”

Final Years & Legacy

Adler passed away on August 23, 2025, at age 96, in New York City, surrounded by family.

He is survived by his third wife, Joan Laxman, whom he married in 1994, and his children and grandchildren from earlier marriages. Notably, his grandson Joe Adler has continued in his footsteps as an actor.

Adler also left behind his memoir, Too Funny for Words: Backstage Tales from Broadway, Television and the Movies, released shortly before his death.