Top 5 Jerry Adler movies and TV shows you need to watch now

It is a sad day for the entertainment industry, because the TV and Movie veteran Jerry Adler, known for one of the most iconic and seamless blends of violence and dark humor, The Sopranos, passed away at the age of 96.

Adler has one of the most inspiring stories when it comes to the famous saying, "Age is just a number." He did not join the entertainment industry until the age of 62, even though he was related to the famous acting teacher Stella Adler. In the little time he spent here, he marked himself as one of the top veterans.

Here are the top 5 Movies and TV shows from the acting veteran to watch as we look back on his acting career and the unforgettable legacy he has left behind.

Top 5 Movies and TV Shows from Jerry Adler

Jerry Adler spent decades behind the scenes as director, stage manager, and more on Broadway productions and didn't come in front of the camera until he was 62. His first role was in a 1991 episode of Brooklyn Bridge. After his role in the David Goldbery sitcom, he quickly rose in popularity, leading to his most popular projects.

#1. The Sopranos: Adler as Herman "Hesh" Rabkin

Adler as Herman "Hesh" Rabkin (Image via HBO)

The Sopranos (1999-2007) is one of the most popular series, even though it's been almost two decades since the show wrapped up. From the storytelling to the acting and the direction, the show changed the television industry forever, setting a legacy for shows made after.

Jerry Adler played Herman "Hesh" Rabkin, the mob boss and Tony Soprano's (and Johnny Soprano's) advisor. Tony might've done Hesh wrong at the end of the show, but Adler's role in the show continues to be one of his best.

#2. The Good Wife (2011-2016): Adler as Howard Lyman

Another one of Adler's iconic roles was Howard Lyman in The Good Wife. He was an always annoyed, always bumbling senior partner, mumbling under his breath at the Lockhart & Gardner firm.

Adler had one of the best comedic timings as Howard Lyman in the dramatic setting of the law firm. The out-of-touch, politically incorrect role he played was a heartwarming part of the show for many viewers.

#3. Manhattan Murder Mystery (1993): Adler as Paul House

Jerry Adler in Manhattan Murder Mystery (Image via TriStar Pictures)

The Manhattan Murder Mystery follows a middle-aged New York couple, Larry and Carol Lipton, who are convinced of their suspicion of foul play when Jerry Adler's Paul House's wife, Lillian House, suddenly dies.

Carol's obsession with Adler's Paul, who appears to be extremely creepy and mysterious, even though he is finally revealed to be a red herring, drives the majority of the plot of Manhattan Murder Mystery.

#4. Rescue Me (2007-2011): Adler as Chief Sidney Feinberg

Jerry Adler played the 75th Battalion Chief and later the Deputy Division Chief on the Firefighter drama from FX in a recurring role from Season 4 through Season 7. He came into the role after the previous chief, Jerry Reilly, died.

Adler's character, despite being a cynic and cantankerous, is an overly responsible and professional leader whose only goal is to bring his crew home safely, even though he had his biggest clashes with one of his crew members, Chief Nelson.

#5. Mad About You: Adler as Mr. Wicker

Jerry Adler as Mr. Wicker in Mad About You (Image via NBC)

The series ran for seven seasons from 1993 to 1999, and Adler played Mr. Wicker on the NBC show, offering one of the most epic comedic performances on the show. He also appeared in all twelve episodes in the eighth season of the show, when it was picked up for a revival in 2019. This was one of Adler's last roles on the screen.