Tony Roberts at the screening of ‘It Takes a Lunatic’ in 2019 Tribeca Film Festival at the Tribeca Performing Arts Center. AP Photo
Veteran stage and film actor Tony Roberts, known for his versatility in both plays and musicals, has passed away at the age of 85. His daughter, Nicole Burley, confirmed the news to The New York Times.
Roberts had a distinguished career on Broadway, originating roles in several musicals, including How Now, Dow Jones (1967), Sugar (1972), and Victor/Victoria (1995), where he shared the stage with Julie Andrews. His Broadway journey also included performances in Xanadu (2007) and The Royal Family (2009).
His connection with Woody Allen was a defining aspect of his career. He appeared in multiple films by the acclaimed director, often playing Allen’s best friend. Some of his most notable roles were in Annie Hall (1977), Stardust Memories (1980), A Midsummer Night's Sex Comedy (1982), Hannah and Her Sisters (1986), and Radio Days (1987).
In a memoir titled Do You Know Me?, Roberts reflected on his lifelong passion for acting. He recalled knowing he wanted to be an actor before reaching high school, a passion that led to a long and successful career on stage and screen.
His Broadway contributions extended beyond musicals. He starred in Woody Allen’s play Don't Drink the Water (1966) and later reprised his role in the film adaptation. Another major success came with Play It Again, Sam (1969), which also led to a film version. His performances earned him two Tony Award nominations for How Now, Dow Jones and Play It Again, Sam.
Roberts' screen presence was often described as the perfect counterbalance to Allen’s neurotic characters. His confident demeanor, tall frame, and expressive acting style added depth to the humor and dynamics of Allen’s films. In Woody Allen: A Biography, Roberts recalled how Allen’s meticulous approach to filmmaking resulted in repeated takes to achieve the desired effect.
Beyond his collaborations with Allen, Roberts had roles in Serpico (1973) and The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974). On television, he appeared in series like Murder, She Wrote and Law & Order, along with short-lived shows The Four Seasons (1984) and The Lucie Arnaz Show (1985).
Born in New York on October 22, 1939, Roberts was the son of radio and television announcer Ken Roberts. Growing up in a family surrounded by actors, he felt a strong desire to prove himself in the entertainment industry. He attended the High School of Music and Art in New York and later graduated from Northwestern University.
His personal life included a marriage to Jennifer Lyons, which ended in divorce. He is survived by his daughter, actress Nicole Burley.
Roberts' first encounter with Woody Allen was during his time in Barefoot in the Park, where he replaced Robert Redford. Though he had initially struggled to land a role in Allen’s early plays, his stage performance convinced Allen of his talent. The director later joked about his audition struggles, telling him, "You were great. How come you're such a lousy auditioner?"
With a career spanning decades, Roberts leaves behind a legacy of remarkable performances in theater, film, and television. His contributions to the entertainment industry will be remembered for years to come.
