Jack Axelrod, a revered figure in the American entertainment industry known for his portrayal of mob boss Victor Jerome on the television series “General Hospital,” passed away on November 28, 2023. He was 93. According to his representative, Jennifer Garland, Axelrod died of natural causes in Los Angeles.
Born in Los Angeles on January 25, 1930, Axelrod’s journey in the arts was multifaceted. He served as a corporal in the US Army, stationed in Germany from 1953 to 1955. After his military service, he attended the University of California, Berkeley and studied architecture. However, his passion for the performing arts led him to a change of career.
Axelrod’s acting career spanned over five decades, marking him as a versatile and enduring talent in the industry. His most notable television role was on “General Hospital,” where he appeared for 40 episodes between 1987 and 1989. He also made significant appearances in popular TV series such as “Grey’s Anatomy,” “My Name is Earl,” “Dallas,” “Dynasty,” “Night Court,” “Everybody Loves Raymond,” “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia,” and “Brooklyn Nine-Nine.” His final credited role was in the 2020 film “Bad Therapy.”
In addition to his television success, Axelrod made his feature film debut in Woody Allen’s 1971 comedy “Bananas.” He also appeared in films like “Hancock,” “Meet the Parents” sequel “Little Fockers,” “Super 8,” and “Transformers: Dark of the Moon.”
A significant period of Axelrod’s training as an actor was under the guidance of Uta Hagen at the Herbert Berghof Studio in New York City. Hagen, who passed away in 2004, was a German-American actor and renowned acting teacher known for her practical exercises and techniques. She taught many other megastars, including Robert De Niro, Gene Wilder, Faye Dunaway, and Matthew Broderick. Axelrod’s commitment to his craft saw him studying under Hagen for six years, honing skills that would later define his career.
Aside from his film and television accomplishments, Axelrod’s theatre contributions were noteworthy. He had a role in a 1969 off-Broadway production of Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” and in the Broadway play “Gandhi,” which closed on opening night. Throughout his career, Axelrod also taught theater at several universities, sharing his extensive knowledge and experience with aspiring actors.
Garland, Axelrod’s representative, reflected on his final years, noting that they spent a lot of time together, enjoying outdoor activities. She recalled how Axelrod loved to draw, read the news, and recite Shakespearean sonnets.
