Actor Tony Roberts, known for his diverse roles in Broadway shows and Woody Allen’s films, passed away at his residence in Manhattan, New York City on February 7, 2025. The 85-year-old succumbed to complications related to lung cancer, as confirmed by his daughter Nicole Burley.
Born to Ken Roberts, a well-known radio and television announcer, Roberts completed his education at the High School of Music and Arts in New York City. He later honed his acting skills under the guidance of Alvina Krause before embarking on his acting career.
Roberts’ Broadway journey started in 1962 after graduating from Northwestern University, with his debut in “Take Her, She’s Mine.” Over five decades, he contributed to 24 Broadway productions. His performances in Woody Allen’s “Don’t Drink the Water” and “How Now, Dow Jones,” cast by theater producer David Merrick, led to his first Tony nomination.
Roberts’ professional bond with Allen began in 1966 during the “Don’t Drink the Water” audition, leading to a lasting partnership and roles in six of Allen’s films, like “Annie Hall” (1977), “Stardust Memories” (1980), and “Hannah and Her Sisters” (1986).
In 2014, Roberts reflected on his association with Allen, stating, “There have been times when I wished I was him. I would like to have his gift and his genius and his brain, which is something to revel at… That’s a pleasure to be around. I wouldn’t want his deeper neuroses, but I don’t think he’d want mine.”
Roberts’ film career began in 1971 with “The Million Dollar Duck,” followed by “Star Spangled Girl” the same year. His notable performances include roles in “Serpico” (1973), “Just Tell Me What You Want” (1980), and “Amityville 3-D” (1983).
Apart from Allen, Roberts worked with other acclaimed directors like Sidney Lumet on “Serpico.” His stage appearances include successful runs in “Promises, Promises,” “Sugar,” and “Victor/Victoria.” He secured his second Tony nomination for “Play It Again, Sam” (1969), a role he reprised in the film version.
Roberts was a dedicated actor who served on the Board of Directors of the Screen Actors Guild and the Actors’ Equity Association. He also held the position of President of the Theater Authority during his career.
In 1997, Roberts admitted that his roles in Allen’s films significantly influenced how industry professionals perceived him. The strong association with his on-screen characters made it challenging for casting agents to envision him in different roles.
Roberts made his mark on television through roles in “The Lucie Arnaz Show” (1985), “The Four Seasons” (1984), and “The Edge of Night” (1965-66). He also appeared on “Law & Order,” “The Love Boat,” and “Trapper John, M.D.”
Despite his prolific film career, Roberts viewed himself primarily as a theater actor, exhibiting his versatility in a variety of productions like “Barefoot in the Park,” “Xanadu,” and “Arsenic and Old Lace.”
In his 2015 memoir “Do You Know Me?”, Roberts wrote, “I’ve never been particularly lucky at card games. I’ve never hit a jackpot. But I have been extremely lucky in life.”
During a Broadway show in 2009, Roberts experienced a minor seizure but returned to the stage within days. His last Broadway performance was in “The Royal Family” in 2009, and his final film role was in “The Longest Week” (2014).
Roberts was married to actress Jennifer Lyons from 1969 to 1975. He is survived by their daughter, Nicole Burley.