1980’s Blockbuster Film Star Has Passed Away Dabney Coleman, the Emmy-winning actor celebrated for his roles in iconic films such as 9 to 5, Boardwalk Empire, and Tootsie, has passed away at the age of 92. Coleman died peacefully at his home in Santa Monica on Thursday.

“My father crafted his time here on Earth with a curious mind, a generous heart, and a soul on fire with passion, desire and humor that tickled the funny bone of humanity,” his daughter Quincy Coleman said in a statement on Friday. “As he lived, he moved through this final act of his life with elegance, excellence and mastery.”

Coleman went on to describe her father as “a teacher, a hero, and a king,” adding that he was “a gift and blessing in life and in death as his spirit will shine through his work, his loved ones, and his legacy eternally.”

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

Dabney Coleman’s illustrious career spanned more than six decades, during which he appeared in over 60 films and numerous TV projects. He was particularly known for portraying unsympathetic characters, a testament to his versatility and talent as an actor. One of his most memorable roles was that of Franklin Hart Jr., the sexist, egotistical boss in the 1980 hit 9 to 5. A 2015 Rolling Stone review praised his performance, noting that he played the character “to smarmy mustachioed perfection.”

Reflecting on his experience working with stars Dolly Parton, Lily Tomlin, and Jane Fonda in 9 to 5, Coleman told Vulture in 2010, “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!’”

Coleman’s impressive career was marked by 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. Throughout his career, he received a total of six Emmy nominations, including two for his portrayal of the distasteful talk show host “Buffalo” Bill in the 1983 series Buffalo Bill. In addition to his Emmy, Coleman was awarded a Golden Globe for Best Actor in a TV Series Musical or Comedy in 1988 for his work in The Slap Maxwell Story.

Some of Coleman’s 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 played Louis “The Commodore” Kaestner in Boardwalk Empire.

Reflecting on Coleman’s significant impact on film and television, actor Ben Stiller tweeted on Friday, “The great Dabney Coleman literally created, or defined, really – in a uniquely singular way – an archetype as a character actor.” He added, “He was so good at what he did it’s hard to imagine movies and television of the last 40 years without him.”

Coleman’s legacy will continue to inspire and entertain future generations, as his memorable performances remain a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication to his craft. Hear more about his death in the video below.

What is your favorite Dabney Coleman role, and how did it impact your appreciation for his work?