Beloved actor Tony Roberts, celebrated for his extensive work with Woody Allen and prominent Broadway performances, has died at 85.
Tony Roberts' passing is mourned by the entertainment industry, marking the end of an era for a celebrated actor known for his versatility in theatre and film, the Associated Press reported.
Tony Roberts was born on October 22, 1939, in New York. He pursued his early education in the arts at the High School of Music and Art, which set the stage for his future in acting. Roberts further honed his craft by attending Northwestern University, where he graduated with a degree that would propel him into the world of performance.
Making his Broadway debut in 1962 in "Something About a Soldier," Roberts quickly established himself as a capable performer. His early stage work paved the way for a career that would span several decades, encompassing both theatre and film.
Throughout his career, Roberts was notable for stepping into roles in long-established Broadway shows. Among these were "Barefoot in the Park," "Promises, Promises," "They're Playing Our Song," "Jerome Robbins' Broadway," "The Sisters Rosensweig," and a 1998 revival of "Cabaret."
Roberts met Woody Allen during his performance in "Barefoot in the Park," a meeting that would lead to a significant professional relationship. Despite initial unsuccessful auditions for Allen's first Broadway play, Roberts' persistence paid off. Allen cast him after being impressed by his performance in "Barefoot in the Park."
His collaboration with Allen saw him starring in several of the director's Broadway and film projects. These included the Broadway comedy "Don't Drink the Water" and films like "Play It Again, Sam," "Annie Hall," "Stardust Memories," "A Midsummer Night's Sex Comedy," "Hannah and Her Sisters," and "Radio Days."
Roberts once reflected on Allen's distinctive filmmaking style, noting, "When you go back to see his work multiple times, you begin to see the amazing amount of art in it, that nothing is accidental."
Roberts starred in a variety of notable Broadway musicals that showcased his versatile talent. His roles in productions such as "How Now, Dow Jones," "Sugar," "Victor/Victoria," "Xanadu," and "The Royal Family" were well-received by audiences and critics alike.
In 2000, Roberts starred in Charles Busch's "The Tale of the Allergist's Wife" on Broadway, a role that highlighted his comedic and dramatic abilities.
His work earned him two Tony Award nominations, celebrating his contributions to the theater world.
Aside from his theater achievements, Roberts also made significant contributions to film. His roles in "Serpico" and "The Taking of Pelham One Two Three" stood out as pivotal parts of his cinematic career.
Roberts extended his talent to television as well, with credits in "The Four Seasons," "The Lucie Arnaz Show," and guest appearances on popular shows like "Murder, She Wrote" and "Law & Order."
Reflecting on his career, Roberts once expressed in his memoir “Do You Know Me?” how fortunate he felt, stating, "I’ve never been particularly lucky at card games. I’ve never hit a jackpot. But I have been extremely lucky in life."
Roberts' personal life included a marriage to Jennifer Lyons, which ended in divorce. His daughter, Nicole Burley, announced his passing to The New York Times and survives him.
During an interview with Broadway World in 2015, Roberts reminisced about his time in the theater during what he considered the Golden Age of Broadway, appreciating the high quality and great conviction of that era.
Woody Allen, reflecting on Roberts' auditions, once humorously remarked to him, "You were great. How come you’re such a lousy auditioner?," capturing the affection and respect between the two collaborators. Roberts' body of work continues to inspire actors and audiences, leaving a lasting imprint on the worlds of both stage and screen.
