17 February,2026 08:35 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Robert Duvall
Oscar-winning actor Robert Duvall, known for his performances in The Godfather films, has passed away at 95, reported Variety. The actor's wife, Luciana Duvall, announced his passing on Facebook along with an emotional tribute. Soon after the news broke, several Hollywood stars took to social media to honour the veteran actor.
Announcing the news, her statement read, "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."
Pouring out her heart in a touching message, Luciana wrote, "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 for 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."
Many remembered the actor's acclaimed works along with his contribution to the film industry. Actor Jamie Lee Curtis offered her tribute, describing the late actor as the "greatest consigliere."
Michael Keaton wrote, "Another friend goes down. He was greatness personified as an actor. RIP RD."
Viola Davis, who appeared alongside Duvall in the 2018 thriller Widows, shared, "I've always been in awe of your towering portrayals of men who were both quiet and dominating in their humanness. Rest well, sir. Your name will be spoken. May flights of angels sing thee to thy rest."
Adam Sandler mourned the loss and said, "Funny as hell. Strong as hell. One of the greatest actors we ever had. Such a great man to talk to and laugh with. Loved him so much. We all did. So many movies to choose from that were legendary. Watch them when you can. Sending his wife Luciana and all his family and friends our condolences."
In a career spanning 70 years, Robert Duvall's film credits include Network, Days of Thunder, Sling Blade, The Scarlet Letter, Jack Reacher, Deep Impact, and Thank You for Smoking.
Initially involved in New York theatre, he made his big screen debut with To Kill a Mockingbird. In 1972, he appeared in The Godfather as Tom Hagen, the adopted son of the Corleone family, winning his first Oscar nomination. He went on to feature in the film's 1974 sequel.
In 1979, Duvall was seen in the classic Apocalypse Now as Lt. Col. Kilgore, earning his second Oscar nomination. The next year, he received his third Oscar nomination for a leading role in The Great Santini. It was finally in 1983 that Robert Duvall won an Oscar for Best Actor for his performance in Bruce Beresford's directorial Tender Mercies.
