Jerry Adler, the actor known for his roles in ‘The Sopranos’ and ‘The Good Wife,’ died peacefully in his sleep at the age of 96. His family representative confirmed his passing on August 23, marking the end of a long and distinguished career. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Adler began his acting career later in life, initially working as a stage manager and director for multiple Broadway productions. Despite his early ambitions in theater, it wasn’t until his move to California in the 1980s that he transitioned to television, where his career flourished.
Adler’s path to television was not straightforward. After leaving Broadway, he found work on the soap opera ‘Santa Barbara,’ which served as a stepping stone to his television career. His big break came in the early 1990s when he joined the cast of ‘Northern Exposure,’ a show written by David Chase, the same writer behind ‘The Sopranos.’ This led to his iconic role as Hesh Rabkin in the critically acclaimed series, which ran for six seasons. His performance as Hesh, a cunning and complex character, is remembered as one of the most memorable in television history.
Adler’s career continued with his role in ‘The Good Wife,’ where he played the enigmatic character Howard Lyman. This role further cemented his place in pop culture. Beyond his television work, Adler was also involved in film, including the 1993 movie ‘Manhattan Murder Mystery.’ His dedication and talent were evident throughout his career, and he remained active in the entertainment industry until his passing. Friends and colleagues have praised his contributions to both theater and television, with one friend noting that his career took off after he was 65, which is remarkable given the industry’s usual trajectory.
Adler is survived by his four daughters, who have shared tributes to their father in the wake of his death. A friend, Frank J. Reilly, posted a heartfelt message on X, reflecting on Adler’s legacy and the impact he had on television. Adler’s work continues to be celebrated by fans and critics alike, and his legacy will be remembered in the annals of television history. The entertainment industry mourns the loss of a versatile and dedicated actor whose contributions to the field will not be forgotten.