- Robert Duvall died peacefully at 95 in Middleburg, Virginia
- He received seven Oscar nominations and won for Tender Mercies
- Co-stars including Al Pacino and Robert De Niro paid tribute
- Known for iconic roles in The Godfather and Apocalypse Now
- Friends and colleagues remembered his warmth, humor, and mentorship
Hollywood is mourning the loss of legendary actor Robert Duvall, who died peacefully at his home in Middleburg, Virginia, at the age of 95.
Over a career that spanned more than six decades, Duvall built a reputation as one of the finest actors of his generation. He earned seven Academy Award nominations and won the Oscar for Best Actor in 1984 for his role in Tender Mercies. His performances were known for their depth, restraint, and emotional truth.
Tributes quickly poured in from across the film industry.
His The Godfather co-star Al Pacino said his “phenomenal gift will always be remembered.”
In his tribute, Pacino wrote: “He was a born actor as they say, his connection with it, his understanding and his phenomenal gift will always be remembered. I will miss him.”
Adam Sandler, who worked with Duvall on the 2022 film Hustle, shared photos from their time together. He wrote: “Funny as hell. Strong as hell. One of the greatest actors we ever had. Such a great man to talk to and laugh with.”
Viola Davis, who appeared with Duvall in Widows, reflected on his powerful screen presence. “I was in awe,” she said. “I've always been in awe of your towering portrayals of men who were both quiet and dominating in their humanness. You were a giant... an icon.”
She added: “Greatness never dies. It stays... as a gift. Rest well, sir. Your name will be spoken... May flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.”
American actor Robert Duvall, wearing a tuxedo and bow tie, in the 41st Golden Globe Awards press room at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California, 28th January 1984. Duvall holds the 'Best Performance in a Motion Picture (Drama)' award, which he received for his performance in 'Tender Mercies'. Getty Images
Robert De Niro, who appeared in The Godfather Part II, said: “God bless Bobby. I hope I can live till I'm 95. May he rest in peace.”
Director Francis Ford Coppola, who cast Duvall in Apocalypse Now, called his death “a blow.”
“Such a great actor and such an essential part of American Zoetrope from its beginning,” Coppola said, referring to his production company.
In Apocalypse Now, Duvall played Lieutenant Colonel William Kilgore. He had only minutes of screen time, but his line, “I love the smell of napalm in the morning,” became one of the most famous in film history. The character was originally written as more extreme, but Duvall toned it down and helped reshape the role.
Throughout his career, Duvall chose roles that were complex and human. He played Tom Hagen in The Godfather, a steady and loyal consigliere. He portrayed a tough Marine officer in The Great Santini. He starred in The Apostle, which he also wrote and directed.
Walton Goggins, who worked with him on The Apostle, shared an emotional tribute. “The celestial light just lost its glow. It certainly did for me,” Goggins wrote. “Bobby Duvall, the greatest storyteller of all time just left us.
“He was my friend. My mentor... The privilege of getting to work with this man, to know this man is still the most important experience of my life. He was my North Star, my hero. He knew it.”
He added: “He didn't have to do that. But he did. He had that effect on a lot of people... but this was my story. I love you Bobby. Thank you for changing my life.”
Michael Keaton remembered him simply: “Another friend goes down. Acted with and became friends.
“Shared a great afternoon on my front porch talking about horses. He was greatness personified as an actor. RIP RD.”
Duvall made his film debut as Boo Radley in To Kill a Mockingbird. He had no dialogue, but his presence left a lasting impact.
To his wife, Luciana, he was more than a legend. “To the world, he was an Academy Award-winning actor, a director, a storyteller. To me, he was simply everything,” she said. “His passion for his craft was matched only by his deep love for characters, a great meal, and holding court.”
Robert Duvall leaves behind a body of work that shaped American cinema. His performances remain timeless. His voice, strength, and humanity will not be forgotten.
