Robbins' movie credits included the film version of 1776 (as Roger Sherman), Shaft (as Rollie), and 2001's The Royal Tennebaums (as Mr. Levinson, his final film role). Television work included guest spots on Ed, Murder, She Wrote, and Law & Order. He was most active on stage, however, where he originated the role of Dr. Spivey in One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest on Broadway, performed in Shakespeare's histories such as Henry IV (both parts) and King Richard III, played Herbie the agent opposite Angela Lansbury in the 1974 revival of Gypsy, and was a standby during the original run of Noises Off.