Dabney Coleman Net Worth

Dabney Coleman’s Net Worth: A Look at the Career and Legacy

Dabney Coleman, the prolific American actor known for his distinctive portrayal of arrogant and often unlikable characters, left behind a legacy of memorable performances across film and television. He passed away in 2024, leaving a net worth of $5 million. This article explores his life, career, and the impact he made on the entertainment industry.

Early Life and Military Service

Dabney Wharton Coleman was born on January 3, 1932, in Austin, Texas. His early life included education at the Virginia Military Institute and the University of Texas at Austin. In 1953, Coleman’s path took a turn when he was drafted into the United States Army, where he served in Europe. This military service preceded his acting career, which began after his time in the service.

Breakthrough in Television: “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman” and Beyond

After returning from military service, Coleman honed his craft at the Neighborhood Playhouse School of Theater in New York City under Sanford Meisner from 1958 to 1960. Coleman’s television career began in 1961 with a guest appearance on “Naked City,” and from there, he steadily built a resume of guest spots on numerous popular shows. Notable early appearances include “The Outer Limits,” “The Alfred Hitchcock Hour,” and multiple episodes of “The Fugitive.” Coleman’s career saw a turning point in the 1970s, with appearances in series like “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman.” His role as Merle Jeeter in “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman” from 1976 to 1977 marked a significant breakthrough, as he appeared in 148 episodes.

Following the success of “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman”, Coleman’s television work continued to flourish. He appeared in “Barnaby Jones”, “The Mary Tyler Moore Show”, and “Mannix”, further solidifying his presence on screen. In the 1980s, he starred in his own series, “Buffalo Bill,” earning critical acclaim. In 1988, he received a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Television Series for his performance in “The Slap Maxwell Story.” He also made guest appearances in popular TV series, such as “Boardwalk Empire,” “The Guardian,” and “Ray Donovan,” demonstrating his versatility and enduring appeal.

Movie Success: Iconic Roles in Film

While Coleman’s television career was extensive, his film work also contributed greatly to his legacy. He starred in numerous critically acclaimed movies. His ability to embody both comedic and dramatic roles made him a sought-after actor in Hollywood. Memorable roles include the antagonistic Franklin Hart Jr. in the 1980 comedy “9 to 5,” where he starred alongside Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, and Dolly Parton. Coleman’s performance in “9 to 5” is often cited as a defining role in his career, perfectly capturing his ability to portray unlikeable authority figures.

Other notable film credits include “Tootsie” (1982), where he played a sexist soap opera director, “WarGames” (1983), and “Cloak & Dagger” (1984). His ability to portray characters with both comedic and dramatic depth showcased his versatility as an actor. Moreover, he delivered standout performances in films like “On Golden Pond” (1981), and “The Beverly Hillbillies” (1993), which showcased his range and ability to adapt to various genres. He also starred in “Meet the Applegates,” “There Goes the Neighborhood,” and “You’ve Got Mail,” solidifying his status as a well-rounded actor who could excel in both supporting and leading roles.

(Photo by Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic)

Awards and Accolades

Throughout his long career, Dabney Coleman received recognition for his talent and contributions to the entertainment industry. He was nominated for numerous awards, including Primetime Emmy Awards. He received two Primetime Emmy Award nominations for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series for “The Slap Maxwell Story” in 1987 and 1988. Further recognition came with a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or a Special for his role in the TV movie “Sworn to Silence” (1987). These nominations reflect the critical acclaim he garnered for his performances. His work in “Buffalo Bill” also earned him praise and contributed to his reputation as a versatile and talented actor.

Kevin Winter/Getty Images

Personal Life, Real Estate, and Death

Dabney Coleman’s personal life included two marriages. He married Ann Courtney in 1957, and they divorced in 1959. His second marriage was to Jean Hale in 1961, and they divorced in 1984, after having three children, Kelly, Randy, and Quincy. He also had one other child. Outside of acting, Coleman was an avid tennis player, participating in many celebrity and charity tournaments.

In September 1986, Coleman purchased a home in Brentwood, Los Angeles, for $595,000. He listed the home for sale in June 2023 for $4.5 million, but later removed the listing and offered it as a rental for $14,000 per month. He lived in the home until his death on May 16, 2024, at the age of 92, from cardiac arrest.

Dabney Coleman’s Lasting Legacy

Dabney Coleman’s career, which spanned over six decades, cemented his place in Hollywood history. Known for playing characters that audiences loved to hate, his performances were often a highlight in the shows and movies he was in. His ability to deliver nuanced and memorable characters leaves a significant impact. His legacy lives on through the extensive filmography, the memorable roles, and the awards and recognition he received throughout his career.