Robert Duvall dies at 95
The great American actor Robert Duvall, who remained in history with his iconic incarnations in "„The Godfather“" and "„Apocalypse Now„", has died at the age of 95, CNN reports.
An official statement released by his representatives on behalf of his wife said the actor passed away peacefully at his home in Middleburg, Virginia, on Sunday.
„"Yesterday I said goodbye to my beloved husband, closest friend and one of the most remarkable artists of our time. Bob passed away quietly, at home, surrounded by love and warmth. To the world he was an Oscar winner, a director and a storyteller. To me he was everything," shares his wife Luciana.
She emphasizes that his dedication to acting was matched only by his love of characters, good cuisine, and the pleasure of being among people and in the spotlight.
„"Bob poured his heart and soul into every role, seeking the truth about the human spirit. In doing so, he left behind something lasting and indelible. We thank you for your support over the years and for respecting his memory," she added.
With his characteristic raw realism and genuine screen presence, Robert Duvall established himself as one of the brightest representatives of his generation, alongside names like Robert De Niro, Dustin Hoffman, and Gene Hackman.
Born in 1931 in San Diego to a naval officer, he initially followed in his father's footsteps and served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He later settled in New York City, where he studied acting and began his stage career.
His first significant appearance on the big screen was in "„To Kill a Mockingbird“(1962), where he played the reclusive and enigmatic Boo Radley – a role that brought him serious attention.
The real breakthrough came with Francis Ford Coppola's masterpiece - "„The Godfather“(1972), in which Duvall plays Tom Hagen, the trusted advisor to the Corleone family.
His participation in "The„Apocalypse Now“(1979), where he delivered the iconic line "I love the smell of napalm in the early morning" as Lieutenant Colonel Bill Kilgore. For this performance, he won a Golden Globe and a BAFTA for Best Supporting Actor.
In 1983, he received the Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in "„Tender mercy„".
In his personal life, Robert Duvall was married four times – to Barbara Benjamin (1964–1975), Gail Youngs (1982–1986), Sharon Brophy (1991–1996), and Luciana Pedraza (since 2005).
