Dabney Coleman Net Worth Life And Career
Dabney Coleman net worth, an esteemed American actor, was renowned for his adeptness in portraying complex characters, often embodying egotistical and unlikeable personas with a comedic flair. Born on January 3, 1932, in Austin, Texas, Coleman carved a niche for himself in Hollywood, leaving an indelible mark through his extensive work in film and television
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Who is Dabney Coleman?
Dabney Coleman was a legendary American actor known for his distinctive mustache, dry humor, and ability to play arrogant yet hilarious characters. Born on January 3, 1932, in Austin, Texas, Dabney Coleman net worth carved out a successful Hollywood career spanning over six decades. His impeccable comic timing and ability to portray egotistical figures made him a fan favorite.
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| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Dabney Wharton Coleman |
| Date of Birth | January 3, 1932 |
| Place of Birth | Austin, Texas, USA |
| Height | 6 feet (183 cm) |
| Education | Virginia Military Institute, University of Texas at Austin |
| Profession | Actor |
| Years Active | 1961–2024 |
| Spouse(s) | Ann Courtney Harrell (m. 1957–1959), Jean Hale (m. 1961–1984) |
| Children | Meghan, Kelly, Randy, Quincy Coleman |
| Famous Movies | 9 to 5, Tootsie, WarGames, Cloak & Dagger |
| Famous TV Shows | Buffalo Bill, Boardwalk Empire, The Guardian |
| Net Worth (2025) | $5 million |
| Date of Death | May 16, 2024 |
| Final Residence | Santa Monica, California |
Early Life and Education
Dabney Coleman grew up in Corpus Christi, Texas, after his father passed away when he was just four years old. Raised by his mother, he developed an early passion for tennis and even achieved a national ranking as a junior player. Coleman attended Corpus Christi High School before enrolling at the Virginia Military Institute at the age of 17. After two years, he transferred to the University of Texas at Austin, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Drama in 1954.
His education was briefly interrupted by military service in the U.S. Army Special Services Division in West Germany from 1953 to 1955. Initially considering a legal career, he enrolled in law school but soon abandoned it after being inspired by a visit from actor Zachary Scott. Moving to New York City, Coleman studied acting under the legendary Sanford Meisner at the Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre from 1958 to 1960.
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Dabney Coleman Net Worth
As of 2025, Dabney Coleman Net Worth is estimated to be $5 million. His fortune was built through his long and successful acting career in film and television. His property investments, including his Brentwood, Los Angeles home, added to his wealth. Purchased in 1986 for $595,000, this property was later rented for $14,000 per month in 2013.
| Year | Estimated Net Worth |
|---|---|
| 2020 | $4.5 million |
| 2022 | $4.8 million |
| 2025 | $5 million |
Dabney Coleman Net Worth And Career
Dabney Coleman’s acting career began in the 1960s, landing roles in TV series like Naked City. His film debut came in 1965 with The Slender Thread. Throughout the 1970s, he continued to rise in Hollywood, starring in films like Downhill Racer and The Towering Inferno.
However, it was in the 1980s that he truly became a household name. His role as the villainous boss Franklin Hart Jr. in 9 to 5 (1980) cemented his reputation. Other major movies followed, including:
- Tootsie (1982) – Played a sexist soap opera director
- WarGames (1983) – Portrayed a military computer scientist
- Cloak & Dagger (1984) – Starred in a dual role as a father and a fictional hero
On television, Coleman gained critical acclaim for:
- Buffalo Bill (1983–1984) – Earned an Emmy nomination
- Sworn to Silence (1987) – Won a Primetime Emmy Award
- The Slap Maxwell Story (1987–1988) – Won a Golden Globe
- The Guardian (2001–2004) – Played Burton Fallin
- Boardwalk Empire (2010–2011) – Starred as Louis “The Commodore” Kaestner
Personal Life and Family
Dabney Coleman was married twice. His first marriage to Ann Courtney Harrell lasted from 1957 to 1959. In 1961, he married actress Jean Hale, and they had four children together: Meghan, Kelly, Randy, and Quincy Coleman. This marriage lasted until 1984.
Despite often playing unpleasant characters, in real life, Coleman was known for his charitable work and love for tennis, participating in celebrity tournaments.
Physical Appearance
Coleman stood 6 feet (183 cm) tall, with an athletic build that reflected his active lifestyle. His defining feature was his signature mustache, which he started growing in 1973. He once joked that without it, he looked too much like Richard Nixon.
Where Did Dabney Coleman Live?
Throughout his life, Coleman lived in various locations:
- Austin, Texas (Birthplace)
- Corpus Christi, Texas (Childhood home)
- New York City (Acting training in the 1950s-60s)
- Los Angeles, California (Hollywood career base)
- Brentwood, Los Angeles (Purchased home in 1986)
- Santa Monica, California (Final residence)
Coleman passed away on May 16, 2024, at the age of 92 at his Santa Monica home.
Social Links and Legacy
Although Coleman was from a pre-social media era, his movies and TV shows continue to have a strong online presence. Fans can find highlights of his career on streaming services, YouTube, and dedicated tribute pages.
His influence on Hollywood is undeniable, with over 175 acting credits to his name. In 2014, he was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, recognizing his immense contribution to the entertainment industry.
Frequently Asekd Questions
What was Dabney Coleman’s most famous role?
Dabney Coleman was best known for his role as Franklin Hart Jr., the arrogant boss in 9 to 5 (1980), a comedy classic featuring Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, and Dolly Parton.
How much was Dabney Coleman’s net worth in 2025?
As of 2025, Dabney Coleman’s net worth was estimated at $5 million, primarily earned from his extensive acting career in film and television.
Did Dabney Coleman receive any major awards?
Yes, he won a Primetime Emmy Award for Sworn to Silence (1987) and a Golden Globe Award for The Slap Maxwell Story (1987-1988).
Conclusion
Dabney Coleman Net Worth reflects a lifetime of dedication to acting. From his early roles in the 1960s to his legendary performances in 9 to 5 and Tootsie, he established himself as one of Hollywood’s most memorable character actors. His ability to bring humor to villainous roles set him apart, ensuring his legacy remains intact in the entertainment industry. Even after his passing, his films and TV performances continue to entertain audiences worldwide.
