Dabney Coleman, the beloved actor known for his roles in “9 to 5,” “Tootsie,” and “Boardwalk Empire,” passed away on Thursday, May 16, 2024, at his home in Santa Monica, California. He was 92 years old. His daughter, Quincy Coleman, confirmed the news to PEOPLE, expressing the family’s deep loss.
“My father lived with a curious mind, a generous heart, and a vibrant spirit full of passion, desire, and humor that brought joy to many,” Quincy said in a heartfelt statement. “In his final days, he lived with elegance, excellence, and mastery.”
Coleman’s career spanned over six decades, featuring more than 60 film and TV roles. He was particularly known for portraying antagonistic characters, a role he embraced early on. “I played that role since I was a kid,” Coleman recalled in a 1984 interview. “I was tiny until I finished college, so I compensated by being more aggressive.”
Born in Austin, Texas, in 1932, Coleman was one of four children raised by a single mother after his father’s untimely death. He attended the Virginia Military Institute and was drafted into the Army in 1953. Following his service, he pursued acting, training under Sanford Meisner at New York City’s Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre.
Coleman had his breakthrough in the 1980 film “9 to 5,” playing the villainous boss Franklin Hart Jr. His co-stars, Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, and Dolly Parton, played a crucial role in his career advancement. “They were so supportive and included me in everything,” Coleman shared. “They ensured I was part of every publicity shot and tour.”
Throughout his career, Coleman portrayed many memorable characters. He played a sexist boss in “Tootsie,” a conniving principal in “Recess,” and a fatherly figure in “You’ve Got Mail.” His role in the TV series “Buffalo Bill” was a standout, which he considered his favorite. “I don’t see myself as an evil person, but playing those well-defined characters is fun,” he said.
Despite frequently portraying villains on screen, Coleman’s true personality was quite different. “That isn’t who I am,” he explained. “That’s just a character I play, just for fun.”
In addition to his on-screen success, Coleman was an accomplished tennis player and a devoted family man. He is survived by his sister Beverly Coleman McCall, his children Meghan, Kelly, Randy, and Quincy Coleman, and his grandchildren Hale and Gabe Torrance, Luie Freundl, and Kai and Coleman Biancaniello.
Coleman’s legacy in Hollywood is cemented by his diverse work and the lasting impressions he left on his audiences and colleagues. He was a six-time Emmy nominee, winning in 1987 for the TV film “Sworn to Silence.” He received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2014.
Reflecting on his final scene in “Yellowstone,” Coleman spoke highly of his experience working with Kevin Costner. “It was great. He’s a total pro, very sensitive guy, very talented guy, very professional, very serious,” Coleman shared.
Dabney Coleman’s remarkable career and his indelible mark on Hollywood will be remembered fondly by fans and peers alike.
