His mother, Angela Thornton, is of British origin and was actively involved in theater. She performed in various stage productions, including several on Broadway, and worked alongside renowned actors such as Richard Burton, Mickey Rooney, Ray Milland, and Kate Burton. Angela later married William Stroke, a television drama producer who served as a Vice President at NBC. The couple married in 1960 and had two children together.

Education and Early Interest in Acting

Adam enjoyed a stable and creatively enriching upbringing. He attended a local school where he actively participated in drama programs. His early exposure to theatrical performance, fueled by a family steeped in the arts, inspired him to pursue acting from a young age. Teachers and audiences alike recognized his talent through various school plays, where his passion for acting became increasingly evident.

Following his high school education, Adam attended Union College in New York. While there, he continued to cultivate his acting skills, participating in student productions and expanding his understanding of the performing arts.

Career Beginnings and Breakthrough

After college, Adam Stroke began his professional acting career with small roles in local theater productions. Despite coming from a networked family, he faced initial struggles finding consistent work and spent over a year auditioning for roles without success. A failed Broadway audition left him disheartened and led to a period of personal difficulty. Support from his family—particularly involvement in a production led by his father—helped him regain confidence and return to the stage.

His breakthrough came with notable performances in films such as Death Becomes Her, Highway to Hell, and Mystic Pizza. These roles showcased his charisma and solidified his reputation as a talented character actor in the industry.