The Sopranos star Jerry Adler‘s recent death has sent shockwaves across the entertainment industry. He was a prominent actor who appeared in numerous films and television shows across various genres. Adler’s filmography includes both leading and supporting roles. His acting career has also expanded to include theatre credits. Acting had always been in Adler’s blood as he hailed from a family involved in the arts and entertainment industries. His cousins Stella and Luther, great-uncle Jacob Pavlovich, and grandson Joe were or are all actors.
Jerry Adler passes away at 96, claims report
Jerry Adler passed away on Saturday, August 23, 2025, in New York City. He was 96 years old at the time of his death.
His family confirmed Jerry Adler’s death in an obituary. It’s unclear what the cause of his death was. However, his spokesperson told Page Six that he passed away peacefully in his sleep.
Several of Adler’s friends and collaborators shared tributes to the late actor on social media. Some also recalled their fondest memories with the actor.
His friend Frank J. Reilly called him “a great actor” on X (formerly Twitter). He also invited social media users to check out his IMDb page.
Stevie Van Zandt, who worked with Adler in The Sopranos, said on X that acting alongside him was “such an honor.” “Travel well, my friend,” he added.
Meanwhile, Robert King, who cast Adler in The Good Wife, shared a funny anecdote related to Adler’s time on the show. On X, King revealed that Adler was only supposed to appear in one episode of the show. However, Adler’s acting was “so funny” to King and the creators that they made him a series regular.
Adler, who originally pursued stage managing and directing, launched his acting career in 1991 with Brooklyn Bridge. He later appeared in films like The Public Eye and Woody Allen‘s Manhattan Murder Mystery, and shows like Alright Already and Hudson Street.
However, his career reached great heights after he starred in The Sopranos, starring the late James Gandolfini. He played Herman “Hesh” Rabkin, a Jewish loan shark and advisor to Gandolfini’s protagonist Tony Soprano.
Charley Scalies, Adler’s The Sopranos co-star, died before him. Scalies passed away two months ago at the age of 84 following a battle with Alzheimer’s Disease.
