Marilyn B. Coleman was a multifaceted artist known for her work as a writer, singer, and an acclaimed actress who captivated audiences on Broadway, television, and in films.
Born in Philadelphia to Estella and Fred Bonaparte, Marilyn relocated to Los Angeles in 1966, where she embarked on a remarkable career that would span over 45 years across various entertainment mediums.
Coleman’s acting journey began with notable film roles, including the 1977 drama "Looking For Mr. Goodbar" alongside Diane Keaton, the comedic film "Which Way Is Up?" featuring Richard Pryor, and the crime drama "Remember My Name" with Geraldine Chaplin in 1978. She also appeared in the TV movie "Nowhere to Run" (NBC, 1977-78) and was part of the miniseries "A Woman Called Moses" (1978-79). In her early days, she made her mark on television with a role in "Good Times" (CBS, 1973-79) and later featured in the 1982 film "Vice Squad." Throughout the late 1970s and early 1980s, she starred in several TV movies, such as "Aunt Mary," "The Best Little Girl in the World," and "Something So Right."
In her later career, Coleman continued to shine in films like the comedic drama "The Five Heartbeats" (1991) and the 1993 film "Menace II Society." She also appeared in the TV movie "Heat Wave" (TNT, 1989-1990) and had a role in "Designing Women" (CBS, 1986-1993). Her final appearance was in the adventurous drama "The Meteor Man" (1993).
Marilyn was previously married to jazz percussionist George Allen, with whom she had a daughter, Marci Allen-Koutsialis. After their divorce, she wed jazz singer Earl Coleman,
