Dabney Coleman: 9 to 5 Star and Master of Jerk Roles

A Legacy of Smarmy Villains

Dabney Coleman, the celebrated actor known for his portrayal of delightfully smarmy and villainous characters, has passed away at the age of 92. In films such as 9 to 5 and Tootsie, and television shows like Buffalo Bill, Coleman transformed the portrayal of unctuous individuals into an art form.

One of Coleman's most memorable roles was as the chauvinistic boss, Franklin Hart Jr., in the 1980 comedy 9 to 5, alongside Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, and Dolly Parton. His character represented the epitome of workplace misogyny, making him the perfect target for the trio's revenge fantasy.

Master of the Mustache

Coleman's distinctive mustache became a trademark of his on-screen persona. It added an air of arrogance and condescension to his characters, whether he was playing an unscrupulous lawyer, a philandering husband, or a corrupt CEO.

In addition to 9 to 5, Coleman graced the silver screen in numerous other films, including Melvin and Howard, Tootsie, The Towering Inferno, and The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. His talent for portraying reprehensible characters earned him numerous award nominations, including three Emmy Awards, one of which he won in 1999 for his role as the patriarch of a dysfunctional family in the HBO comedy Rude Awakening.

A Memorable Career

Dabney Coleman's six-decade career spanned both film and television, leaving an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. His ability to bring unlikeable characters to life with such nuance and humor will be fondly remembered by generations of fans.