Gerald Adler, 81; Pioneer of Global Film, TV Show Distribution

Gerald Adler, 81, who helped pioneer international distribution of motion pictures and television programs, died Oct. 11 at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. His daughter, Amy Adler, said the cause was respiratory failure after a brain hemorrhage.

Born in New York City, Adler served in the Army infantry during World War II before receiving a bachelor’s and a master’s degree from Syracuse University and a law degree from Yale University. After stints with a radio station and a law firm, he joined NBC in 1953. He rose to director of international enterprises, and from 1968 to 1973 was president of NBC Enterprises.

During his tenure, Adler developed distribution of shows throughout Europe, Africa and Asia. He later worked as a lawyer for Penthouse International and Playboy Enterprises and held successive positions in companies overseeing international distribution operations.

In the 1980s, Adler served as managing director of Viacom International, based in London; president of Pay TV Group of United International Pictures in London; and president of Teleworld Inc. in Los Angeles.

From 1988 to 1990 he was vice president of the theatrical and television division of the Motion Picture Export Assn. of America, headquartered in New York.