Veteran actor Jerry Adler passes away at 96

New York: Jerry Adler, a respected figure in American theater and television, best known for his roles in The Sopranos and Rescue Me, has passed away at the age of 96. The news of his death was confirmed on Saturday, August 23, by his longtime friend Frank J. Reilly. The family has not yet disclosed the cause of death.

Adler’s career in entertainment spanned more than seven decades, beginning behind the scenes in the 1950s. Born into a prominent New York theater family, he began his journey as a stage manager and contributed to numerous iconic Broadway productions, including the legendary My Fair Lady. He later directed several Broadway shows before transitioning to acting.

Despite not stepping in front of the camera until his 60s, Adler quickly became a recognizable presence on television. His portrayal of Hesh Rabkin, a close advisor to Tony Soprano in HBO’s The Sopranos, earned him widespread acclaim. He also won hearts as Chief Sidney Fine in FX’s Rescue Me, where his performance blended warmth with quiet authority.

In addition to these standout roles, Adler appeared in Brooklyn Bridge, Broad City, and Mad about You, among other popular series. His ability to bring depth and authenticity to supporting roles made him a beloved character actor to audiences and peers alike.

Tributes poured in from friends, colleagues, and fans. Frank J. Reilly shared a heartfelt post recalling Adler’s generosity, noting that Adler once helped his son land a job on The Sopranos, and years later, that same son helped Adler secure a role in Rescue Me.

The great actor, my friend Jerry Adler died today at the age of 96. You know him from one of his iconic roles had from many of his guest appearances. Not bad for a guy who didn’t start acting until he was 65. Check out his IMDb page. https://t.co/BeOLeEliOb pic.twitter.com/fnbB8soWy4

— Frank J. Reilly 🌻 (@FrankJReilly1) August 23, 2025

Another tribute recalled Adler’s determination, describing how he filmed the pilot for The Sopranos while recovering from gastric surgery. He reportedly persuaded his doctor to let him leave the hospital for a day, completed his scene with a concealed bandage, and then returned to continue his recovery.

Jerry Adler was recovering from gastric surgery when he shot the pilot for The Sopranos. He convinced his doctor to give him a day pass and returned to the hospital when filming completed. He was lucky with the wardrobe for that scene too, which easily hid his abdominal bandage. pic.twitter.com/r5SaUvZonX

— 633 Stag Trail Road 🤌 (@pityforyourself) August 24, 2025

A fan post captured the sentiment shared by many:

If you have watched tv in the last 30 years or so, you know him as a fantastic character actor. Rest well, Jerry Adler. https://t.co/UbhuP2MwUO

— jax ☘️ (@jaxbra) August 24, 2025

Matthew Rettenmund, founder of Popstar! Also paid tribute, writing:

RIP Jerry Adler. He started acting in his 60s, acted 28 years and still had several years’ retirement, all after working on Broadway productions since 1950. pic.twitter.com/kdR8X4j2wN

— Matthew Rettenmund (@mattrett) August 24, 2025

Adler had been married to American psychologist Joan Laxman since 1994. He came from a family deeply rooted in theater: his father was a well-known theater manager, and he was a cousin to celebrated Yiddish stage actors Stella and Luther Adler.

From backstage to center stage, Jerry Adler’s journey was one of quiet strength, dedication, and love for the craft. He leaves behind a lasting legacy in both theater and television, remembered not only for his performances but for the warmth, humility, and generosity he brought to every role and to every life he touched.