Dabney Coleman, Character Actor Known for '9 to 5' and 'Tootsie,' Dies at 92

Dabney Coleman, the accomplished character actor known for his roles as smarmy villains in iconic movies and television shows, has passed away at the age of 92. His daughter, Quincy Coleman, confirmed his death to The Hollywood Reporter on Thursday, May 16, although no further details were immediately available.

Coleman's career took a significant turn in 1976 when he portrayed the incorrigibly corrupt mayor, Merle Jeeter, in the satirical soap opera "Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman." Despite the show's initially challenging path to syndication, Coleman's masterful, deadpan delivery garnered widespread recognition and paved the way for his enduring success in the entertainment industry.

Acclaimed Performances and Recognition

Over the years, Coleman made his mark in numerous popular films, including "War Games," "You've Got Mail," and "The Towering Inferno." Notably, he won critical acclaim with a Golden Globe for "The Slap Maxwell Story" and an Emmy Award for best supporting actor in "Sworn to Silence." His recent credits include appearances in "Ray Donovan" and a recurring role on "Boardwalk Empire," for which he earned two Screen Actors Guild Awards.

Coleman's notable film roles included the "sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot" boss in the 1980 hit "9 to 5," as well as the obnoxious director in "Tootsie." His diverse filmography also encompassed appearances in "North Dallas Forty," "Cloak and Dagger," "Dragnet," "Meet the Applegates," "Inspector Gadget," and "Stuart Little." Notably, he reunited with Dustin Hoffman in Brad Silberling's "Moonlight Mile," further showcasing his versatility as an actor.

Television Ventures

While Coleman's obnoxious characters found success in film, his foray into television encountered mixed results. Despite his starring roles in network comedies like "Buffalo Bill" and "The Slap Maxwell Story," which showcased his range as an actor, some shows struggled to resonate with a broader audience. Nevertheless, he found success in co-starring roles, particularly in "The Guardian" and as the voice of Principal Prickly on the Disney animated series "Recess."

Beneath his bravura performances, Coleman remained a reserved and introspective individual. In a 1984 interview with The Associated Press, he reflected on his shyness and early years, attributing his inclination towards fantasy and games to his childhood experiences. His enduring impact was evidenced in his ability to portray pompous authority figures, as exemplified in his role in "My Date With the President's Daughter."

Born in 1932 in Austin, Texas, Coleman's journey as an actor was influenced by a chance encounter with actor Zachry Scott, which ultimately led him to pursue a career in acting. Throughout his illustrious career, Coleman left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, with his legacy surviving through his four children, Meghan, Kelly, Randy, and Quincy.