Jerry Adler, the veteran actor best known for six seasons as Herman “Hesh” Rabkin on The Sopranos, has died at age 96. He passed away peacefully in his sleep at his New York City home on Saturday, a family representative confirmed to Entertainment Weekly.
Tributes from colleagues followed, including Sopranos star Michael Imperioli, who paid heartfelt homage to Adler. “JERRY ADLER (1929-2025) was a fantastic actor and the kindest of human beings. He brought so much humor, intelligence and truth to the role of Herman ‘Hesh’ Rabkin and was one of my favorite characters on The Sopranos. I loved working and spending time with Jerry. A true class act. Much love to the family,” Imperioli wrote.
Adler’s portrayal of Hesh Rabkin left a lasting imprint on fans of the series, with many praising his wit, warmth and presence within a tightly wound world of crime and family dynamics.
Described as a veteran actor, Adler’s career spanned decades across stage, film and television, earning him respect among fellow performers and audiences alike.
The news arrives during a period in which the entertainment industry has mourned several notable figures, with tributes continuing to pour in for other late actors such as Valerie Mahaffey and Jonathan Joss, underscoring the shared impact performers have on viewers and colleagues.
There was no public disclosure of a cause of death.
Editor’s note: Readers may appreciate a retrospective look at Adler’s work and Hesh Rabkin’s role in The Sopranos, celebrating the craft and character that resonated with fans for years.
Summary: Jerry Adler’s passing marks the loss of a beloved character actor whose work on The Sopranos remains a memorable centerpiece of the series.
Leave a comment