Jerry Adler

Biography

Jerry Adler (February 4, 1929 – August 23, 2025) was a prominent American theatre director, production supervisor, and accomplished actor in television and film. Hailing from Brooklyn, New York, Adler was the son of Pauline and Philip Adler, who served as the general manager of the Group Theatre. Growing up in a Jewish observant family, he developed a deep appreciation for the arts early in life.

Adler's theatrical journey commenced in 1951 as a stage manager, contributing to iconic productions such as *Of Thee I Sing* and *My Fair Lady*. He later transitioned to the role of production supervisor for numerous notable shows, including *The Apple Tree*, *Annie*, and *Coco*. His directorial debut came in 1974 with the Sammy Cahn revue *Words and Music*. He gained recognition for directing the 1976 revival of *My Fair Lady*, earning a nomination for a Drama Desk Award, and also took the helm of the ill-fated musical *The Little Prince and the Aviator*.

As an actor, Adler is most recognized for his portrayal of Herman "Hesh" Rabkin in *The Sopranos*, Mr. Wicker in *Mad About You*, and Lt. Al Teischler in *Hudson Street*. He made notable guest appearances on *Northern Exposure*, *The West Wing*, and *Rescue Me*. His film credits include *In Her Shoes*, *Manhattan Murder Mystery*, and *The Public Eye*. With a diverse career spanning several decades, Jerry Adler left an indelible mark on both stage and screen.