Dabney Coleman, a well-known character actor famous for his roles as comedic villains and mean-spirited bosses in films like “9 to 5” and “Tootsie,” has passed away at the age of 92.
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Coleman’s daughter, Quincy, shared that he died peacefully at his Santa Monica home on Thursday.
Coleman was best remembered for his portrayal of arrogant and uncaring characters, though he once explained it was all just an act.
Not all of Coleman’s roles were negative. He won an Emmy for his role as a lawyer in the 1987 TV movie “Sworn to Silence” and played notable characters in films like “On Golden Pond” and “War Games.” His last role was as John Dutton Sr. in the TV series “Yellowstone” in 2019.
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Photo via People
Born on January 3, 1932, in Austin, Texas, Coleman studied law and served in the U.S. Army before pursuing acting. His early work in the 1960s and 1970s included various TV shows and a part in “That Girl.” His first film role was in “The Slender Thread,” directed by his acting teacher, Sydney Pollack.
Coleman’s breakout role was in the 1976 TV series “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman,” where he played the creepy mayor Merle Jeeter. This led to his iconic role as Franklin Hart in “9 to 5.” He continued to play similar roles in films and TV shows throughout the 1980s and 1990s.
In recent years, Coleman appeared in “Boardwalk Empire,” though his role had to be adjusted due to his throat cancer diagnosis.
He was an avid tennis player, twice married and divorced, and had four children with his second wife, Jean Hale. His daughter remembered him as a man with a curious mind, a generous heart, and a great sense of humor.
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