Dabney Coleman, the renowned character actor known for his portrayal of smarmy villains in films and TV shows, has passed away at the age of 92. His daughter, Quincy Coleman, confirmed his death, stating that he passed away peacefully at his home in Santa Monica. Coleman’s career spanned over two decades, during which he played a variety of roles in popular movies and television shows, showcasing his talent as a character actor.
One of Coleman’s breakout roles was as the corrupt mayor in the satirical soap opera “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman,” which quickly became a cult favorite. His deadpan delivery and comedic timing caught the attention of film and network executives, leading to numerous memorable performances in films such as “War Games,” “You’ve Got Mail,” and “The Towering Inferno.” Coleman also received accolades for his work on television, winning a Golden Globe and an Emmy Award for his performances.
In iconic films like “9 to 5” and “Tootsie,” Coleman played memorable antagonistic characters that left a lasting impact on audiences. His portrayal of the sexist boss in “9 to 5” opposite Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, and Dolly Parton, and the obnoxious TV director in “Tootsie” opposite Dustin Hoffman, showcased his versatility as an actor. Coleman’s filmography also includes roles in “North Dallas Forty,” “Dragnet,” “Inspector Gadget,” and “Stuart Little.”
While Coleman found success in films, his transition to television was met with mixed results. Although he starred in several network comedies, only a few managed to find a lasting audience. Shows like “Buffalo Bill” and “The Slap Maxwell Story” showcased Coleman’s talent but failed to achieve mass appeal. Despite this, Coleman continued to work in television, with roles in series like “The Guardian” and voice work on the Disney animated series “Recess.”
Throughout his career, Coleman maintained a reserved and shy demeanor, contrary to the brash and obnoxious characters he often portrayed on screen. He credited his shyness to his upbringing and the early loss of his father. Despite this, Coleman was able to bring a sense of humor and passion to his performances, earning the respect of his peers and fans alike. His legacy as a talented character actor will continue to be celebrated by those who knew and admired his work.
Dabney Coleman, born in 1932 in Austin, Texas, took a unique path to his acting career, inspired by a chance encounter with actor Zachry Scott. After early credits in TV shows and films, Coleman made his mark on Broadway and eventually in Hollywood, becoming a familiar face on screens big and small. Survived by his four children and grandchildren, Coleman leaves behind a legacy of memorable performances and contributions to film and television that will be cherished by audiences for years to come.
