Jerry Adler, the actor best known as Hesh Rabkin on The Sopranos, has died at his New York City home at the age of 96.

Born in Brooklyn in 1929, Adler grew up in a family deeply rooted in Jewish and Yiddish theater. His early career was spent behind the curtain, where he became a respected stage manager, producer, and director on Broadway.

Over several decades, Adler contributed to more than 50 productions, including the legendary My Fair Lady. He worked with some of the biggest stars of the stage, among them Katharine Hepburn, Marlene Dietrich, Julie Andrews, and Richard Burton.

It wasn’t until his 60s that Adler transitioned into acting. Encouraged by a casting director, he landed his first film role in The Public Eye. That late start blossomed into a three-decade career on screen.

His résumé included memorable guest roles on Northern Exposure, The Good Wife, Rescue Me, Transparent, The West Wing, and Broad City. He also appeared in films such as Woody Allen’s Manhattan Murder Mystery.

On The Sopranos, Adler initially appeared in the pilot episode as Hesh Rabkin, a trusted friend and adviser to Tony Soprano. The role grew into a recurring part, making him a fan favorite throughout the series.

Adler continued to return to Broadway, acting in Elaine May’s Taller Than a Dwarf and Larry David’s Fish in the Dark. His versatility and longevity allowed him to move seamlessly between stage and screen.

He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Joan Laxman, and their four daughters: Alisa, Amy, Laura, and Emily. Last year, he published his memoir, Too Funny for Words: Backstage Tales from Broadway, Television and the Movies, reflecting on a life spent in the spotlight and behind it.