It’s always a bittersweet moment when we say goodbye to a familiar face from our favourite TV shows—especially one who’s been a part of our living rooms for decades.

This week, we’re remembering the actor whose unmistakable presence graced hit series like The Sopranos and The Good Wife.

He passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 96, leaving behind a remarkable legacy both on and off the screen.


Born in Brooklyn, New York, Jerry Adler’s journey to television stardom was anything but conventional.

While many actors chase the spotlight from a young age, Adler spent the first half of his career behind the scenes, working as a stage manager, producer, and director on Broadway.


In fact, he was involved in the original production of My Fair Lady—a testament to his deep roots in the theatre world.

It wasn’t until the 1980s, well into what he jokingly called 'the twilight of a mediocre career,' that Adler made the leap to California and began dabbling in television.

He worked on the soap opera Santa Barbara and took on various roles in TV and film throughout the 1990s, including Brooklyn Bridge, Alright Already, Hudson Street, and Woody Allen’s Manhattan Murder Mystery.


Adler’s big break came thanks to a bit of serendipity—and a helpful nudge from Donna Isaacson, a casting director and family friend.

She encouraged him to audition for a role in The Public Eye alongside Joe Pesci, and from there, Adler’s on-screen career took off.

He soon landed a part on Northern Exposure, written by none other than David Chase, who would later create The Sopranos.

When Chase began casting for his now-legendary mob drama, he called on Adler to play Hesh Rabkin, Tony Soprano’s trusted advisor.

What was meant to be a one-off cameo turned into a recurring role spanning six seasons, as audiences and producers alike fell in love with Adler’s nuanced portrayal.


After The Sopranos, Adler continued to shine on the small screen, taking on the role of Howard Lyman in the acclaimed legal drama The Good Wife, where he starred alongside Julianna Margulies.

His ability to bring warmth, wit, and gravitas to every character made him a favourite among viewers and colleagues alike.

Adler’s story is a powerful reminder that pursuing your dreams is never too late.

He didn’t start acting on screen until he was 65, yet he managed to carve out a place for himself in television history.

As his friend Frank J. Reilly wrote in a touching tribute, 'Not bad for a guy who didn’t start acting until he was 65.'

Jerry Adler is survived by his four daughters, who no doubt carry forward his legacy of resilience, creativity, and passion.


For many of us, Adler’s characters were more than just roles—they were companions through countless evenings of television.

Whether he was offering sage advice to Tony Soprano or navigating the legal world in The Good Wife, Adler brought a sense of authenticity and heart to every performance.
As we remember Jerry Adler, we invite you to share your favourite memories of his work. Did you have a favourite character or episode? Perhaps you saw him on stage in his earlier years? Let us know in the comments below.

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