A Legacy of Theater and Television
Jerry Adler, a versatile figure in the entertainment industry, passed away at the age of 96. His career spanned multiple decades, beginning with a long stint behind the scenes in Broadway productions before transitioning to acting later in life.
Adler’s contributions to television are well-recognized, particularly his role as Hesh Rabkin in “The Sopranos,” where he played a key character across all six seasons. He also appeared in “The Good Wife” as Howard Lyman, showcasing his range as an actor.
Before stepping into the spotlight, Adler had an extensive background in theater. Over the course of his career, he was involved in 53 Broadway productions, working as a stage manager, producer, or director. His early exposure to the performing arts came from a family deeply rooted in Jewish and Yiddish theater. His father, Philip Adler, was a general manager for the Group Theatre and other notable Broadway productions, while his cousin, Stella Adler, was a renowned acting teacher.
“I’m a creature of nepotism,” Adler once said, recalling how his first job in the theater came about when his father called him to fill an assistant stage manager position during his time at Syracuse University.
Adler’s journey in theater included working on iconic productions such as “My Fair Lady” and collaborating with legendary figures like Marlene Dietrich, Julie Andrews, and Richard Burton. However, he eventually left Broadway during its 1980s slump, moving to California where he worked on television productions, including the soap opera “Santa Barbara.”
His transition to acting was unexpected. After being cast in a role due to a friend’s suggestion, Adler found himself in front of the camera. This led to a successful acting career that lasted over three decades, with roles in films like Woody Allen’s “Manhattan Murder Mystery” and television shows such as “Northern Exposure,” “Rescue Me,” and “Transparent.”
Adler even returned to Broadway, this time as an actor, in Elaine May’s “Taller Than a Dwarf” in 2000. In 2015, he appeared in Larry David’s stage debut, “Fish in the Dark.”
“I do it because I really enjoy it. I think retirement is a road to nowhere,” Adler remarked, highlighting his passion for the craft. He continued to work in the industry, publishing a memoir titled “Too Funny for Words: Backstage Tales from Broadway, Television and the Movies” in 2024.
Throughout his career, Adler remained active in both theater and television, often expressing how strange it was to be recognized by the public after years of working behind the scenes. Despite this, he embraced his new role, famously stating, “I’m immortal,” in reference to his presence on film.
Adler’s life and career reflect a unique blend of theater and television, showcasing his adaptability and dedication to the performing arts. His legacy continues to inspire those who follow in his footsteps.
