Tony Roberts, the charismatic and versatile stage and screen actor, who brought warmth and humor to Broadway musicals and Woody Allen films, has passed away at the age of 85. His daughter, Nicole Burley, confirmed his passing to The New York Times on Friday.
With a career spanning decades, Roberts became a beloved figure in both theater and film. His rich theatrical background included originating roles in an impressive range of Broadway musicals, such as How Now, Dow Jones (1967), Sugar (1972) — an adaptation of the classic film Some Like It Hot — and Victor/Victoria (1995), where he shared the stage with the legendary Julie Andrews in her return to Broadway. Fans of the campy, roller-disco musical Xanadu (2007) and the revival of The Royal Family (2009) also saw Roberts command the stage with his signature charm and presence.
In addition to his Broadway success, Roberts became a staple in Woody Allen’s films, often playing Allen’s best friend, providing a strong, confident counterbalance to Allen’s neurotic personas. His film credits included Annie Hall (1977), Stardust Memories (1980), A Midsummer Night’s Sex Comedy (1982), Hannah and Her Sisters (1986), and Radio Days (1987). Reflecting on his time working with Allen, Roberts once remarked on the meticulous nature of Allen’s filmmaking, particularly in A Midsummer Night’s Sex Comedy, where Allen reshot a scene multiple times even after the movie had been edited to achieve the perfect effect.
Roberts’ onscreen presence was one of confidence and charm. His tall stature, broad shoulders, and distinctive curly hair made him the perfect contrast to Allen’s often anxious and self-doubting characters. As the Jewish Daily Forward noted in 2016, Roberts’ grounded performances only heightened the humor of Allen’s work, making their collaborations truly memorable.
Born in New York on October 22, 1939, Roberts grew up surrounded by actors and performers. His father, Ken Roberts, was a well-known radio and television announcer, and his cousin was character actor Everett Sloane. From an early age, Roberts knew he wanted to act, stating in his memoir Do You Know Me?, “Unlike many of my pals, who didn’t know what they wanted to become when they grew up, I knew I wanted to be an actor before I got to high school.”
He attended the High School of Music and Art in New York before moving on to Northwestern University in Illinois, where he honed his craft and prepared for a lifetime in the spotlight. By 1962, he made his Broadway debut in the short-lived production Something About a Soldier but soon went on to be part of some of the most beloved productions of his time.
Among his notable Broadway achievements, Roberts was twice nominated for a Tony Award: once for his work in How Now, Dow Jones and again for Play It Again, Sam, in which he was billed as Anthony Roberts. He also starred in Charles Busch’s hit comedy The Tale of the Allergist’s Wife (2000), where he played the title character’s husband, earning widespread acclaim for his comedic timing and stage presence.
Roberts also made a mark on television, with roles in the short-lived but memorable series The Four Seasons (1984) and The Lucie Arnaz Show (1985). Additionally, he made guest appearances in classics such as Murder, She Wrote and Law & Order, proving his versatility across mediums.
His film career wasn’t limited to Woody Allen collaborations. Roberts also appeared in crime dramas like Serpico (1973) and The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974), showcasing his ability to take on more serious, dramatic roles.
One of the pivotal moments in Roberts’ career was his association with Woody Allen, which began when he was starring in Barefoot in the Park after replacing Robert Redford. Interestingly, Roberts had unsuccessfully auditioned for Allen’s first Broadway play, Don’t Drink the Water, four times. However, after watching Roberts in Barefoot in the Park, Allen was convinced of his talent. As Roberts recalled in his memoir, Allen later told him, “You were great. How come you’re such a lousy auditioner?”
Despite the ups and downs of show business, Roberts never took his career for granted. “I’ve never been particularly lucky at card games. I’ve never hit a jackpot. But I have been extremely lucky in life,” he reflected in his memoir. He considered himself fortunate to have been part of Broadway’s golden years, performing in legendary productions such as Barefoot in the Park, Promises, Promises, They’re Playing Our Song, Jerome Robbins’ Broadway, The Sisters Rosensweig, and the 1998 revival of Cabaret.
Outside of the U.S., Roberts expanded his stage career in London’s West End, where he starred alongside Betty Buckley in Promises, Promises, portraying the role made famous by Jack Lemmon in The Apartment.
Though his marriage to Jennifer Lyons ended in divorce, Roberts is survived by his daughter, Nicole Burley, who followed in his footsteps as an actor. His legacy, built on decades of dedication to his craft, will continue to live on through his many unforgettable performances.
Roberts' life was a testament to the power of talent, perseverance, and a deep love for storytelling. His impact on theater, film, and television remains immeasurable, ensuring that audiences will continue to appreciate his work for generations to come.
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