Legendary actor Robert Duvall, whose on‑screen presence brought nuance, compassion, and emotional truth to some of cinema’s most enduring characters, has died at the age of 95. His wife Luciana Duvall confirmed the news in a heartfelt post on Facebook Monday afternoon, sharing that he passed away peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones. Duvall’s career spanned more than six decades and nearly 100 films, and he was widely regarded as one of the most respected and versatile actors in Hollywood, according to reports by The WP Times.

“Yesterday we said goodbye to my beloved husband, cherished friend, and one of the greatest actors of our time. Bob passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by love and comfort,” - Luciana wrote on Facebook.

“To the world, he was an Academy Award‑winning actor, a director, a storyteller. To me, he was simply everything. His passion for his craft was matched only by his deep love for characters, a great meal, and holding court. For each of his many roles, Bob gave everything to his characters and to the truth of the human spirit they represented. In doing so, he leaves something lasting and unforgettable to us all. Thank you for the years of support you showed Bob and for giving us this time and privacy to celebrate the memories he leaves behind.”

Duvall died on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at his home in Middleburg, Virginia. His passing was first made public the following day through his wife’s announcement on his official Facebook page and has since been reported by news organizations worldwide.

From Boo Radley to Oscar Winner — A Storied Career

Robert Duvall was born on January 5, 1931, in San Diego, California. After early work in television and theatre, he made his feature film debut in 1962 portraying Boo Radley in To Kill a Mockingbird. Remarkably, the character does not speak, yet Duvall’s haunting and quiet performance helped define the role’s emotional core and announced him as a unique presence in American cinema.

Over the next decade, Duvall appeared in an array of films including Bullitt (1968), True Grit (1969) and the dark military satire MASH* (1970). He became a fixture of modern Hollywood storytelling — equally compelling in supporting and lead roles.

His breakout came with Francis Ford Coppola’s The Godfather (1972), where he played consigliere Tom Hagen. Duvall’s calm, measured performance alongside stars like Marlon Brando and Al Pacino brought sophistication and emotional balance to the crime saga. He reprised the role in The Godfather Part II.

In 1979, he delivered one of his most iconic performances as Lieutenant Colonel Bill Kilgore in Apocalypse Now. The role — a complex, surf‑loving, battle‑ready officer — included one of cinema’s most quoted lines, resonating through generations of moviegoers: “I love the smell of napalm in the morning.”

Award‑Winning Work and Range

Duvall earned his first Academy Award nomination for The Godfather and continued to attract critical acclaim through the 1970s and 1980s. In 1983, he won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in Tender Mercies, portraying a former country music star struggling with alcoholism and seeking redemption — a role that showcased his ability to fuse vulnerability with strength.

Across his career, Duvall received seven Oscar nominations, winning once, and was honored with numerous accolades including four Golden Globe Awards and a National Medal of Arts. He also excelled behind the camera, writing, directing, and starring in films like The Apostle (1997), a deeply personal drama that earned him another Oscar nomination.

His filmography includes standout performances in The Great Santini, The Natural, Days of Thunder, A Civil Action, The Judge, and Lonesome Dove. Even into his later years, Duvall remained a sought‑after character actor, bringing emotional precision to every project.

A Lasting Legacy

More than just a performer, Duvall was known for his naturalistic acting style — a quiet intensity and attention to emotional truth that elevated supporting roles into unforgettable characters. His ability to imbue even tough or stoic figures with depth made him beloved by critics, colleagues, and audiences alike.

Outside of film, he was known for his love of storytelling, good food, and lively discussion — passions his wife referenced as core parts of his identity. He leaves behind a lasting legacy in American cinema, inspiring generations of actors and filmmakers through his unparalleled commitment to craftsmanship.

Read about the life of Westminster and Pimlico district, London and the world. 24/7 news with fresh and useful updates on culture, business, technology and city life: Jonathan Ross Show: Alan Carr’s "Turret Era" and Neve Campbell’s Scream 7 Secrets