Tony Roberts, a character actor and frequent Woody Allen player who appeared in ’70s classics like Serpico and The Taking of Pelham 123, has died. He was 85.
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Nicole Burley, his daughter, confirmed to The New York Times that he passed away on Friday at his Manhattan home due to complications from lung cancer.
In films like Play It Again, Sam (1972), Annie Hall (1977), Stardust Memories (1980), and Hannah and Her Sisters (1986), Roberts became well-known for playing Woody Allen’s relaxed confidant. His cool demeanor offered a perfect balance to Allen’s neurotic on-screen persona.
Rest in Power Tony Roberts. He should have been nominated (and won) for an Oscar in 1977 for Annie Hall. An absolute brilliant, actor. pic.twitter.com/drhpaoVfdc
— Danny Deraney (@DannyDeraney) February 8, 2025
Roberts also delivered memorable performances in prolific director Sidney Lumet’s Serpico (1973) and Just Tell Me What You Want (1980). In 1974, he appeared in director Joseph Sargent’s The Taking of Pelham 123.
Tony Roberts dead at the age of 85. He wasn't a big star but he stood out in supporting roles in Serpico, The Taking Of Pelham 123 & multiple Woody Allen pics including Annie Hall. His screen style was laid back, relaxed. I always liked it when he made an appearance. He was cool. pic.twitter.com/kFOv2uzzvD
— Movies In Focus (@moviesinfocus) February 8, 2025
Roberts’ filmography also includes notable roles in Star Spangled Girl (1971) and the horror sequel Amityville 3-D (1983). Meanwhile, on TV, he made appearances in classic series like The Love Boat, The Carol Burnett Show and Law & Order.
Tony Roberts Also Enjoyed an Impressive Career on Broadway
Roberts was widely recognized for his work on stage. He showcased his talent on Broadway in acclaimed productions such as Barefoot in the Park, Cabaret, and Xanadu.
Other notable highlights of his Broadway career include Woody Allen’s play Don’t Drink the Water, and the musical comedy Sugar—a stage adaptation of Billy Wilder’s Some Like It Hot. He also starred in Alan Ayckbourn’s Absurd Person Singular, Victor/Victoria, and The Tale of the Allergist’s Wife.
Roberts’ most recent role was in the 2017 television film adaptation of Dirty Dancing, per IMDb.
In 2016, Roberts published his memoir, Do You Know Me?. The title was inspired by the frequent encounters he had with strangers who felt he looked familiar. Despite his well-known roles in Woody Allen films, on Broadway, and on TV, people often couldn’t quite place where they knew him from.
Roberts was married to Jennifer Lyons from 1969 to 1975. He is survived by his daughter, Nicole.