Dabney Coleman

Dabney Coleman was an American actor who is best known for his roles in “Nine to Five,” “Tootsie,” and “The Towering Inferno.”

Personal and Family Life

Dabney Coleman was born on January 3, 1932, in Austin, Texas. He was the son of Mary Wharton and Melvin Randolph Coleman. He had two siblings, Melvin Randolph Coleman Jr. and Beverly Randolph Coleman. Coleman was married twice, first to Ann Courtney Harrell, with whom he had one child, and later to Jean Hale, with whom he had three children. They divorced in 1984.

Career Highlights

Coleman began his acting career in the 1960s, appearing in films like “The Slender Thread” and “Downhill Racer.” He gained fame in the 1970s through roles in various movies and TV series, including “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman” and “That Girl.” Notable films included “9 to 5,” where he played a memorable antagonist, and “Tootsie,” further establishing his reputation as a character actor known for playing unpleasant roles. He also won an Emmy Award in 1987 for “Sworn to Silence.”

Death and Legacy

Dabney Coleman passed away on May 16, 2024, in Santa Monica, California, due to cardiopulmonary arrest at the age of 92. His legacy includes a successful career spanning several decades, during which he became known for portraying memorable characters, often in comedic or dramatic roles. He left behind a lasting impact on film and television, remembered for his distinctive style and performances.

Filmography