Hollywood Mourns the Loss of Robert Duvall
Robert Duvall, the celebrated actor known for his iconic roles in films like “The Godfather” and “Apocalypse Now,” has died at the age of 95. The news broke on Monday, February 16, 2026, prompting an outpouring of tributes from fellow actors and industry figures. Duvall passed away peacefully at his home, according to a statement released by his wife, Luciana Duvall.
Al Pacino, who starred alongside Duvall in “The Godfather” and “The Godfather Part II,” remembered him as a uniquely gifted performer. “It was an honor to have worked with Robert Duvall,” Pacino said. “He was a born actor, as they say, his connection with it, his understanding and his phenomenal gift will always be remembered. I will miss him.”
Robert De Niro, also a cast member in “The Godfather: Part II,” offered a heartfelt message, stating, “God bless Bobby. I hope I can live till I’m 95. May he rest in peace.”
Duvall’s career spanned over seven decades, leaving an indelible mark on American cinema. He earned an Academy Award for his performance in 1983’s “Tender Mercies” and received seven Oscar nominations throughout his career, including a nod for his portrayal of Tom Hagen, the consigliere in “The Godfather.”
Francis Ford Coppola, director of “The Godfather” films, described Duvall’s death as “a blow,” adding that the actor was “such a great actor and such an essential part of American Zoetrope.”
Viola Davis also shared her admiration for Duvall, recalling her experience working with him on the 2018 thriller “Widows.” “It was an honor to appear alongside the ‘Tender Mercies’ star,” Davis wrote on Instagram Threads. “I was in awe…I’ve always been in awe of your towering portrayals of men who were both quiet and dominating in their humanness.”
From his early role as Boo Radley in 1963’s “To Kill a Mockingbird” to later performances in films like “The Judge” and “A Civil Action,” Duvall consistently delivered compelling and nuanced performances. The loss of Robert Duvall marks the end of an era for classic American filmmaking, and his contributions will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.
