Dabney Coleman, the Emmy-winning actor renowned for his incredible performances in unforgettable films such as “9 to 5,” “Boardwalk Empire,” and “Tootsie,” has left us at the age of 92. Coleman passed away peacefully at his home in Santa Monica on Thursday.
In a heartfelt statement, his daughter Quincy Coleman lovingly described her father as a man who lived his life with curiosity, generosity, and a passionate, humorous spirit that delighted audiences. She said, “As he lived, he moved through this final act of his life with elegance, excellence, and mastery.”
Quincy continued to praise her father as “a teacher, a hero, and a king” who was a gift and blessing both in life and in death. She believes that his spirit will shine through his works, his loved ones, and his everlasting legacy.
Dabney Coleman’s career spanned over six decades, during which he appeared in more than 60 films and numerous TV projects. He was widely recognized for his remarkable ability to portray unsympathetic characters, showcasing his versatility and talent as an actor. One of his most memorable roles was Franklin Hart Jr., the sexist and egotistical boss in the 1980 hit “9 to 5.” His portrayal of this character was hailed as “smarmy mustachioed perfection” by Rolling Stone in 2015.
The great Dabney Coleman literally created, or defined, really – in a uniquely singular way — an archetype as a character actor. He was so good at what he did it’s hard to imagine movies and television of the last 40 years without him. Xxx
— Ben Stiller (@BenStiller) May 17, 2024
Reflecting on his experience working with Dolly Parton, Lily Tomlin, and Jane Fonda in “9 to 5,” Coleman shared in a 2010 interview, “The girls were so supportive of me, and included me in everything. They were on a whole different level than I was at the time, but they were very sensitive about that, and made sure that I was included in every publicity shot and tour. All three of them insisted, ‘Where’s Dabney? Get him in here!’”
Throughout his illustrious career, Coleman received numerous accolades. He won an Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Miniseries or a Movie for his role in 1987’s “Sworn to Silence.” Additionally, he earned six Emmy nominations, including two for his portrayal of the distasteful talk show host “Buffalo” Bill in the 1983 series “Buffalo Bill.” In 1988, Coleman won a Golden Globe for Best Actor in a TV Series Musical or Comedy for his work in “The Slap Maxwell Story.”
Aside from his achievements on the small screen, Coleman also made his mark in cinema. Some of his notable film credits include “Tootsie” (1982), “WarGames” (1983), “The Beverly Hillbillies” (1993), and “Inspector Gadget” (1999). He also lent his voice to Principal Peter Prickley in ABC Kids’ “Recess” and portrayed Louis “The Commodore” Kaestner in “Boardwalk Empire.”
Actor Ben Stiller paid tribute to Coleman on Twitter, acknowledging his tremendous impact on the world of film and television. Stiller tweeted, “The great Dabney Coleman literally created, or defined, really – in a uniquely singular way – an archetype as a character actor. He was so good at what he did it’s hard to imagine movies and television of the last 40 years without him.”
Dabney Coleman’s legacy will continue to inspire and entertain future generations. His memorable performances are a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering dedication to his craft. As we bid farewell to this legend of the silver screen, let us remember the joy and laughter he brought to our lives through his remarkable body of work.
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