As a young individual, Dooley showcased his artistic talents as a cartoonist, even creating a strip for a local paper in Parkersburg, West Virginia. Prior to exploring the world of acting, he embarked on a journey in the Navy. During his time at college, he discovered his passion for acting and soon decided to transition into the entertainment industry.
Moving to New York, Dooley's talent and dedication propelled him to success on the stage, where he became a regular performer. In addition to his work in acting, Dooley had a knack for comedy and spent five years honing his stand-up skills. He also dabbled in other forms of entertainment, briefly taking on the roles of magician and clown. Furthermore, his creativity extended to writing, as he experimented with various forms of storytelling.
Throughout his career, Dooley has appeared in numerous films, including the iconic Popeye (1980). He has also made recurring appearances on various television shows, such as My So-Called Life (1994),Dream On (1990),Grace Under Fire (1993),and Star Trek: Deep Space Nine (1993).