Tony Roberts, the veteran actor best known for his roles as Woody Allen’s affable best friend in films like Annie Hall, passed away on February 7, 2025, at his home in Manhattan. He was 85. His daughter, Nicole Burley, confirmed that he died due to complications from lung cancer. Roberts, whose career spanned over five decades, left an indelible mark on both stage and screen with his effortless charm and quick-witted performances.
From Broadway to Hollywood, Roberts built a legacy as a versatile performer, earning two Tony Award nominations for How Now, Dow Jones and Play It Again, Sam. While he often played the confident, easygoing counterpoint to Allen’s neurotic characters, his talent extended far beyond those roles. He tackled everything from Shakespeare to contemporary comedies, proving his range time and time again.
Beyond his professional achievements, Roberts’ passing marks the end of an era for a generation of theater and film lovers. His ability to blend humor with sincerity made him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. With a career filled with memorable performances and a personality that captivated audiences, he leaves behind a legacy that will be cherished for years to come.
Who Was Tony Robert’s Wife?
While Tony Roberts built a career that kept him in the spotlight, his personal life remained relatively private. He was married to Jennifer Lyons, a dancer, in 1969. Their marriage lasted for six years before they divorced in 1975. Despite their separation, Roberts continued to focus on his career, appearing in a series of hit Broadway plays and Hollywood films throughout the following decades.
Roberts and Lyons did not have children together, but the actor had one daughter, Nicole Burley, from a later relationship. She is his only immediate survivor and has largely stayed out of the public eye. While little is known about her personal life, she confirmed the sad news of her father’s passing, marking the end of an era for their small but close-knit family.
Though Roberts’ marriage ended long before his passing, he remained dedicated to his craft, finding solace in the stage and screen. His daughter, Nicole, now carries his memory forward as his only surviving family member.
A Legacy Beyond the Screen
Roberts may have been best known for his collaborations with Woody Allen, but his influence extended far beyond those roles. From his early Broadway success to his later film appearances, he was a familiar and beloved presence in the entertainment industry. His sharp comedic timing, effortless charisma, and ability to elevate any scene made him a favorite among audiences and critics alike.
Even as he grew older, Roberts remained active in theater, reprising some of his earlier roles and taking on new challenges. His dedication to his craft never wavered, and his ability to captivate audiences was as strong as ever. While his passing is a great loss, his body of work ensures that his presence will be felt for generations to come.
Though he is no longer with us, Tony Roberts’ contributions to film and theater will continue to be celebrated. His impact on the industry, his talent, and his enduring charm ensure that he will never be forgotten.
