Robert Duvall, Oscar Winner and Icon of The Godfather, Apocalypse Now and Tender Mercies, Dies at 95
MIDDLEBURG, VA – Robert Selden Duvall, the veteran actor known for a remarkable body of work spanning seven decades, has died at the age of 95, his wife announced Monday. Duvall’s passing brings an outpouring of tributes from peers and fans across the entertainment world.
According to a public statement shared by his wife, Luciana Duvall, the actor died peacefully at his home in Middleburg, Virginia, on Sunday, February 15, 2026, surrounded by loved ones. The statement noted that in accordance with Duvall’s wishes, there will be no formal public funeral, and the family encouraged those wishing to honor his memory to celebrate in personal ways, such as watching films or gathering with friends.
A Storied Career in Film and Television
Duvall began acting in the early 1960s and built a reputation for deeply human portrayals across a wide range of roles. He made his feature film debut in To Kill a Mockingbird (1962) and later appeared in such classics as MAS*H, True Grit and Network, according to reporting by ABC News and other outlets.
His collaborations with director Francis Ford Coppola proved particularly influential. Duvall’s performance as Tom Hagen, the calm and courtly consigliere in The Godfather and its sequel, became one of his most iconic roles, and helped cement his status in American cinema. Critics and audiences also widely remember his portrayal of Lieutenant Colonel Bill Kilgore in Apocalypse Now.
In 1983, Duvall won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role as an aging country singer in Tender Mercies, a performance that showcased his emotional nuance and depth. According to sources, he received a total of seven Academy Award nominations over his career while earning numerous other honors, including Golden Globe and Emmy Awards.
Tributes From Colleagues and Fans
News of Duvall’s death prompted an immediate response from figures across film and television. Al Pacino and Francis Ford Coppola shared reflections on their long collaborations, with Coppola calling Duvall an essential creative partner. Fellow actor Adam Sandler described him as “one of the greatest actors we ever had,” highlighting both his talent and generosity on set. Other performers, including Viola Davis and Alec Baldwin, offered remembrances of Duvall’s influence and presence in the industry.
Throughout his career, Duvall balanced mainstream blockbusters with more intimate, character-driven films. His performances in Lonesome Dove, The Apostle, and A Civil Action further illustrated his versatility, earning critical accolades and fan admiration. Duvall continued acting well into his later years, appearing in films such as The Judge and Hustle, affirming his enduring passion for the craft.
In a profession often marked by fleeting fame, Duvall’s longevity and breadth of work set him apart. From dusty Western towns to wartime battlefields and the corridors of family power, he brought a grounded realism to each character he embodied; a legacy that will live on in the many performances that defined American cinema over the latter half of the 20th century and beyond.
Key Facts and Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Robert Selden Duvall |
| Age at Death | 95 |
| Date of Death | February 15, 2026 |
| Place of Death | Middleburg, Virginia |
| Cause of Death | Not publicly disclosed |
| Announced By | Wife, Luciana Duvall |
| Survived By | Wife and extended family |
| Funeral Plans | No public funeral per family statement |
| Academy Awards | 1 win, 7 nominations |
| Most Iconic Roles | The Godfather, Apocalypse Now, Tender Mercies |
| Years Active | 1961–2025 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Robert Duvall die?
His family confirmed he died peacefully at his home in Middleburg, Virginia. A specific cause of death has not been publicly released.
When did Robert Duvall die?
He passed away on February 15, 2026.
How old was Robert Duvall?
He was 95 years old.
Did Robert Duvall win an Oscar?
Yes. He won the Academy Award for Best Actor in 1983 for Tender Mercies and received seven Oscar nominations during his career.
Where did Robert Duvall live?
In his later years, he resided in Middleburg, Virginia.
Will there be a public funeral?
According to a statement from his wife, there will be no formal public funeral. The family asked that fans honor him privately.
