Oscar-winning actor Robert Duvall, renowned for his roles in The Godfather and Apocalypse Now, has died aged 95.
Duvall passed away peacefully at his home in Middleburg, Virginia, on Sunday, according to a statement issued by his wife, Luciana. Over a six-decade career, he became known for portraying complex, often tough characters with commanding presence and emotional depth.
He won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in Tender Mercies, and earned six other Oscar nominations. His portrayal of Tom Hagen in The Godfather Part II cemented his status as one of Hollywood’s most respected performers.
In Apocalypse Now, directed by Francis Ford Coppola, his role as Lieutenant Colonel William Kilgore produced the iconic line, “I love the smell of napalm in the morning.” Coppola described his death as “a blow,” calling him an essential part of his production company, American Zoetrope.
Duvall made his screen debut as Boo Radley in To Kill a Mockingbird, delivering a silent yet powerful performance that critics and fellow actors long praised.
He also starred in Network, The Great Santini, The Apostle, and The Judge, among many others. Duvall often cited his role as Augustus McCrae in the television miniseries Lonesome Dove as his personal favourite.
Tributes poured in from across Hollywood. Al Pacino, his co-star in The Godfather, said it was an honour to work with him, praising his “phenomenal gift.” Adam Sandler, Jamie Lee Curtis, Robert Patrick, and Alec Baldwin also shared heartfelt tributes celebrating his talent and generosity.
In a statement, his wife said Duvall gave everything to each role and left behind something “lasting and unforgettable.”
Erizia Rubyjeana
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