Nicolas Coster, the beloved soap opera actor known for his roles on “Another World,” “Santa Barbara,” and “All My Children,” as well as his appearances in notable films like “All the President’s Men,” “Reds,” and “Stir Crazy,” has passed away at the age of 89. Coster’s daughter, Dinneen Coster, announced his death on Facebook, urging people to remember him as a great artist and an actor’s actor.
Born on December 3, 1933, in London, Nicolas Dwynn Coster came from a family immersed in the arts. His father was a cinema and theater critic, and his mother was known for her talent in decorating department-store windows. Coster’s passion for acting led him to study at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in the U.K., where he graduated in 1951. Two years later, he made his debut on the big screen in films like “Titanic,” “The Desert Rats,” and “Sea of Lost Ships.”
Coster then traveled to the United States, where he studied with renowned acting coach Lee Strasberg in New York. He also performed at prestigious theaters such as the Arena Stage in Washington and the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis, where he was a founding member. His talent and versatility caught the attention of casting directors, leading to his breakthrough role as J.E. Carson, the chief of detectives on “The Misadventures of Sheriff Lobo.” This marked the beginning of a long and successful career on both the small and big screens.
In addition to his television work, which included appearances on popular shows like “Naked City,” “Charlie’s Angels,” and “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” Coster also showcased his acting skills on Broadway. He starred alongside esteemed actors Elizabeth Taylor in Lillian Hellman’s “The Little Foxes” and Sada Thompson in “Twigs.” Coster’s ability to bring complex characters to life earned him critical acclaim and a loyal fan base.
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One of his most memorable roles came in the 1980s soap opera “Santa Barbara,” where he portrayed Lionel Lockridge, the troubled and self-destructive husband of Augusta Lockridge. Coster’s performance captivated audiences, earning him Daytime Emmy nominations and solidifying his status as a soap opera icon. He also portrayed Robert Delaney on “Somerset”/”Another World” and Steve Andrews on “All My Children,” receiving praise for his versatile and nuanced performances.
Coster’s talent extended beyond the small and big screens. He shared his knowledge and love for acting as a teacher at the University of Georgia and continued working even after a near-fatal car accident that caused memory loss. Passionate about scuba diving, he founded the Challenges Foundation in 1998, a charitable organization that provided disabled and underprivileged youngsters with opportunities to experience the joys of sailing. Furthermore, Coster published a memoir titled “Another Whole Afternoon” in 2021, offering fans a glimpse into his extraordinary life and career.
Throughout his career, Coster’s contributions to the entertainment industry were widely recognized. In 2010, he was named one of the 50 Greatest Soap Actors of all time by We Love Soaps. His charm, intelligence, and versatility as an actor made him a fan favorite. He left an indelible mark on the entertainment world and will be remembered as a great artist and beloved father.
Nicolas Coster is survived by his second wife, Beth Pantel, and his daughters Candice Jr. and Dinneen from his first marriage to dancer-actress Candace Hilligoss. Sadly, his son Ian passed away in 2016. As the news of Coster’s passing spreads, fans and colleagues alike mourn the loss of a talented actor whose performances touched the hearts of many. His legacy will live on through his body of work and the impact he had on the acting community.
