Dolly Parton remembered Dabney Coleman as a great actor, a dear friend and a generous guide during her first film, 9 to 5. She shared the tribute on Instagram on May 20, 2024, four days after Coleman died at 92.
What Dolly Parton said about Dabney Coleman
In her Instagram tribute, Parton recalled both Coleman’s talent and the friendship they maintained after working together. As quoted by Good Morning America, she wrote: “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 through the years and I will miss him greatly as many people will.”
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Her words describe a lasting professional and personal bond, but do not recount private anecdotes. The clearest detail she offered about their time together was that Coleman taught her while she was making her first movie.
How Parton and Coleman knew each other
They met through the 1980 comedy 9 to 5, in which Parton starred alongside Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin. Coleman played Franklin Hart Jr., the egotistical boss at the center of the office workers’ revolt. The character’s behavior belongs to the film; Parton’s tribute instead speaks to her regard for Coleman himself. The Associated Press also identified Coleman with the role in its obituary.
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The film’s legacy beyond their shared screen work
9 to 5 was also a musical milestone for Parton: she sang the film’s title song. The story later moved to the stage as a Broadway musical, which opened in 2009, with Parton involved in its adaptation, according to the Los Angeles Times. That later chapter adds context to the film’s continuing place in her career, while her message about Coleman remains centered on gratitude and friendship.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Why the tribute followed Coleman’s death
Coleman died on May 16, 2024, aged 92. The Associated Press reported his death based on a statement from his daughter, Quincy Coleman. Parton’s post, shared four days later, was a remembrance of a former costar and longtime friend—not an announcement of a new project.
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