Dolly Parton Posts Emotional Tribute to '9 to 5' Costar Dabney Coleman

Emmy-winning actor Dabney Coleman passed away at age 92, according to a statement from his daughter, Quincy. The actor's career spans six decades and includes memorable turns in Tootsie, Wargames, and You've Got Mail. He most recently appeared as John Dutton Sr. on Yellowstone.


In 1980, the actor had a memorable role in 9 to 5 as Franklin Hart, the sexist, egotistical boss who meets his match in his employees Violet (Lily Tomlin), Doralee (Dolly Parton), and Judy (Jane Fonda). While Dabney portrayed a bully on screen, his costar Dolly Parton remembers him as a "dear friend."


Dolly shared a poignant message on Instagram, writing, "Dabney was a great actor and became a dear friend. He taught me so much when I was doing my first movie, 9 to 5. He was funny, deep and smart. We remained friends throughout the years and I will miss him greatly as many people will."

l r dabney coleman and dolly parton in 1988 photo by bob damicodisney general entertainment content via getty images
Dabney Coleman and Dolly Parton, 1988ABC Photo Archives

Fans left messages of condolences and memories of the actors in the comments: "My condolences to his family and friends. May his legacy live on forever," "So many wonderful memories of him in cinema. He was the absolute funniest," and "He was brilliant in 9 to 5 and you were too. RIP Dabney Coleman."

cast of 9 to 5
Cast of 9 to 5, 1980Ron Galella

Lily Tomlin shared a photo from the movie on X (formerly Twitter) and wrote, "we just loved him."

Our condolences go out to Dabney's family and friends and all of those who enjoyed his work.


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