Annie Hall actor & Broadway star Tony Roberts passes away at 85

Tony Roberts was a talented actor known for his roles in Annie Hall and Serpico who sadly passed away at the age of 85. Tony succumbed to lung cancer on February 7, 2025, with the news announced by his daughter, Nicole Burley, to the New York Times. He is survived by his daughter following his divorce from Jennifer Lyons.

Tony Roberts passed away at 85 years

Roberts was a dynamic presence on Broadway, originating roles in several notable musicals, including: How Now, Dow Jones (1967), Sugar (1972), an adaptation of Some Like It Hot, Victor/Victoria (1995), where he co-starred with Julie Andrews in her Broadway return.

His stage work extended to productions like the campy Xanadu in 2007 and The Royal Family in 2009. His connection with Woody Allen began when Roberts replaced Robert Redford in Barefoot in the Park. It led to a fruitful collaboration after Allen saw his performance.

Career highlights

In addition to his Broadway success, Roberts starred in several of Allen’s films, including:

Annie Hall (1977) as Alvy Singer’s best friend, Rob

Stardust Memories (1980)

A Midsummer Night’s Sex Comedy (1982)

Hannah and Her Sisters (1986)

Radio Days (1987)

He also appeared in classic films like Serpico (1973) and The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974). Roberts received Tony Award nominations for his performances in How Now, Dow Jones and Play It Again, Sam, where he was billed as Anthony Roberts.

About Tony Roberts

Born on October 22, 1939, in New York, Roberts was the son of radio and television announcer Ken Roberts. He attended the High School of Music and Art in New York and graduated from Northwestern University in Illinois. Roberts’ television appearances included the short-lived series The Four Seasons (1984) and The Lucie Arnaz Show (1985), along with guest roles in popular shows like Murder, She Wrote and Law & Order. His contributions to the arts have left a lasting legacy. He will be remembered fondly by fans and colleagues alike.

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