Hesh Rabkin on ‘The Sopranos’ Was 96
Jerry Adler, a beloved actor best known for his role as Hesh Rabkin on the hit series “The Sopranos,” passed away at the age of 96. His death was confirmed by the Riverside Memorial Chapel in New York.
Adler’s journey into acting began later in life, after a successful career as a Broadway producer and manager. It was a casting director on the 1992 thriller “The Public Eye” who convinced him to audition for a role, leading to a newfound passion for acting that would define the rest of his career.
On “The Sopranos,” Adler captivated audiences with his portrayal of Hesh Rabkin, a Jewish loan shark and trusted advisor to Tony Soprano. His talent also shone through in other notable roles, including as fire chief Sidney Feinberg on “Rescue Me” and as lawyer Howard Lyman on “The Good Wife.”
In addition to his television work, Adler appeared in several films, such as Woody Allen’s “Manhattan Murder Mystery” and the critically acclaimed “A Most Violent Year.” Even in his nineties, he continued to impress audiences with his performances in indie films like “Driveways.”
Born in Brooklyn, New York, on February 4, 1929, Adler was destined for a career in entertainment. With a father who worked in Broadway productions and a cousin who was a renowned acting teacher, Adler’s theatrical roots ran deep. Over the years, he amassed over 50 credits on Broadway before transitioning to television in the 1980s.
Adler’s legacy extends beyond his acting career; he also shared his experiences in the entertainment industry in his memoir, “Too Funny for Words: Backstage Tales From Broadway, Television and the Movies,” published in 2024.
He is survived by his wife, Joan Laxman, and leaves behind a lasting impact on the world of entertainment. Jerry Adler’s talent, charm, and passion for acting will be dearly missed by fans and colleagues alike.
