Dolly Parton Pays a Heartful Tribute to 9 to 5 Co-Star Dabney Coleman After His Death
Dolly Parton paid tribute to her late co-star, Dabney Coleman, who passed away on May 16. The actress took her Instagram and shared a post about her feelings about Coleman’s death.
She wrote, “Dabney was a great actor, and he became a dear friend,” and continued, “He taught me so much when I was doing my first movie, 9 to 5.”
She remembered him as “funny, deep, and smart” and added that they remained friends throughout the years. She said she would miss him greatly.
Parton and Coleman co-starred in the 1980 comedy film 9 to 5 along with Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin, which Colin Higgins directed. It focuses on the story of a trio teamed up for revenge against their boss, played by Coleman.
Lily Tomlin also expressed her condolences on social media. She shared a photo of herself and Coleman in the film 9 to 5 and wrote, “We just loved him.”
Coleman died on Thursday afternoon at 92 at his home in Santa Monica. His cause of death is yet to be revealed. His daughter, Quincy Coleman, confirmed the news in a statement.
“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.”
She continued, “As he lived, he moved through this final act of his life with elegance, excellence, and mastery.”
“A teacher, a hero, and a king, Dabney Coleman is a gift and blessing in life and in death as his spirit will shine through his work, his loved ones, and his legacy … eternally.”
Coleman started his career in the ’60s and debuted on Broadway in A Call on Kuprin in 1961. His early roles in the films include The Towering Inferno, Downhill Racer, and Bite the Bullet.
After that, he appeared as the main antagonist in 9 to 5. He won an Emmy Award for acting in the television film Sworn to Silence. His notable films include On Golden Pond, WarGames, Cloak & Dagger, and You’ve Got Mail.
He also acted in many television series, such as Mary Hartman, The Slap Maxwell Story, The Guardian, and Boardwalk Empire.
Coleman last appeared in an episode of the Yellowstone series in 2019 as John Dutton Sr., in which he portrayed the father of John Dutton III, played by Kevin Costner.