Oscar-winning actor Robert Duvall, whose extraordinary career spanned more than seven decades, has passed away at the age of 95.
His wife, Luciana Pedraza, confirmed that he died peacefully at home on February 15, surrounded by love and comfort. In a heartfelt tribute, she described him as not only a celebrated artist but also a deeply devoted partner.
“To the world, he was an Academy Award-winning actor, director, and storyteller,” she shared. “To me, he was simply everything.”
Born on January 5, 1931, in San Diego and raised in Annapolis, Maryland, Duvall’s path to acting began with formal training at Principia College before he honed his craft at New York’s Neighborhood Playhouse. There, he studied alongside future Hollywood greats like Dustin Hoffman, Gene Hackman, and James Caan.
His breakthrough came in 1962 with his role as Boo Radley in To Kill a Mockingbird. However, it was his unforgettable portrayal of Tom Hagen in The Godfather that propelled him to global recognition, earning him his first Academy Award nomination. He later reprised the role in The Godfather Part II, further solidifying his place in cinematic history.
Duvall also delivered a standout performance in Apocalypse Now, collaborating with acclaimed director Francis Ford Coppola. His iconic performance in the film earned him another Oscar nomination and remains one of his most memorable roles.
Over the years, he continued to captivate audiences with powerful performances in The Great Santini, The Apostle, A Civil Action, and The Judge.
In 1984, he won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in Tender Mercies, portraying a troubled country singer on a journey of redemption.
Celebrated for his authenticity and emotional depth, Duvall leaves behind a legacy that continues to inspire actors and filmmakers alike.
Though he is gone, his timeless performances ensure that his influence on cinema will endure for generations.
IN LOVING MEMORY OF ROBERT DUVALL… 💔🕉💔#RobertDuvall was the kind of actor who never needed noise to command attention. Quiet, precise, and profoundly truthful, he brought an extraordinary depth to every role he inhabited. For me, he was always one of the favourites — not… pic.twitter.com/7fGj5KDi7S
— Anupam Kher (@AnupamPKher) February 17, 2026