The entertainment world mourns the loss of Dabney Coleman, the esteemed actor whose wit and charm graced both the silver screen and television for decades. At the age of 92, Coleman passed away in the comfort of his Santa Monica home.
Born on January 3, 1932, in Austin, Texas, Coleman’s career was marked by a remarkable range of characters, often infused with his signature sarcastic wit and impeccable timing. His daughter, Quincy Coleman, shared with TMZ, “Dabney Wharton Coleman’s final moments on this earth were as serene and beautiful as one could hope for, occurring at 1:50 PM on Thursday, May 16th, 2024.”
Quincy fondly remembered her father, stating, “He navigated his journey with a vibrant curiosity, a heart that knew no bounds, and a spirited sense of humor that resonated with us all. His approach to life and his craft was nothing short of elegant, masterful, and complete.”
At this time, the family has not disclosed the cause of his passing.
Coleman’s legacy includes memorable roles in iconic films such as “9 to 5,” “On Golden Pond,” and “Tootsie,” as well as beloved television characters like Buffalo Bill, The Slap Maxwell Story’s eponymous protagonist, and Burton Fallin in “The Guardian.” His voice brought life to Principal Peter Prickly in “Recess,” and he captivated audiences as Louis “The Commodore” Kaestner in “Boardwalk Empire.” His talent earned him an Emmy® and a Golden Globe, among numerous nominations.
Before his rise to fame, Coleman was a dedicated actor whose talents went largely unrecognized until his breakthrough role as Mayor Merle Jeeter in “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman.” The show, too bold for network television, found success in syndication and quickly garnered a devoted following, with Coleman’s performance standing out for its comedic brilliance.
Dabney Coleman’s departure leaves behind a rich tapestry of performances that will continue to inspire laughter and admiration for generations to come. He will be remembered not only for his contributions to the arts but also for the indelible mark he left on the hearts of those who knew him and those who felt they did through his work.
