Robert Duvall, a notable actor from the “New Hollywood” period, has passed away at 95 years old.
His wife, Luciana, shared the news via a social media post on February 16th. She expressed, “Yesterday we said goodbye to our beloved husband, dear friend, and one of the greatest actors of our time.” While the exact cause of his passing hasn’t been disclosed, she mentioned he “passed away peacefully at home surrounded by love and peace.”
Duvall was recognized for his remarkable versatility, embodying characters in films like “The Godfather,” “Apocalypse Now,” and “Network.” He received seven Academy Award nominations during his career, winning for “The Great Santini.”
In her tribute, Luciana stated, “In each of his many roles, Bob gave his all to the characters and the truths of the human spirit they represented. In doing so, he left a lasting and unforgettable legacy on all of us.”
His extensive filmography includes many notable works. Here’s a selection of 14 movies and shows to explore that highlight his remarkable life.
Duvall’s journey in film began with small roles in theater and television, eventually leading to his film debut as Boo Radley in an adaptation of the classic novel.
Stream “Alabama Story”: Prime Video (purchase or rent)
In 1970, he starred in Robert Altman’s influential film “M*A*S*H,” where he played Major Frank Burns, the notable antagonist in this black comedy.
Stream “M*A*S*H”: Prime Video (purchase or rent)
One of Duvall’s first significant recognitions came from his role in “The Godfather,” where he portrayed Tom Hagen, Don Vito Corleone’s confidant. He reprised this role in its sequel.
Stream “The Godfather” and “The Godfather Part II”: Paramount+
The film “Network,” a sharp critique of corporate media, featured Duvall as Frank Hackett, a character embodying the callous corporate mentality.
Stream “Network”: Prime Video (purchase or rent)
His second Oscar nomination came from “Apocalypse Now,” where Duvall’s portrayal of Lt. Col. Bill Kilgore included one of cinema’s most memorable quotes.
Stream “Apocalypse Now”: Prime Video (purchase or rent)
Duvall’s leading role in “The Great Santini” earned him another Oscar nomination, showcasing his character’s struggle to balance pride and family life.
Stream “The Great Santini”: Prime Video (purchase or rent)
He won his first Academy Award for “Tender Mercies,” playing a former country music star trying to rebuild his life.
Stream “Tender Mercies”: Prime Video (Free)
His first Emmy nomination came from the miniseries “Lonesome Dove,” where he played Gus McRae alongside Tommy Lee Jones.
Stream “Lonesome Dove”: Prime Video (Free Trial)
Days of Thunder (1990)
In the early 1990s, Duvall took on a key role in “Days of Thunder,” where he served as a crew chief for a novice NASCAR driver.
Stream “Days of Thunder”: Paramount+, AMC+ (free trial)
He earned another Oscar nomination for “The Apostle,” which he also wrote and directed, as a preacher navigating personal demons.
Stream “The Apostle”: Prime Video (purchase or rent)
A year later, he received his sixth nomination for his supporting role in “Civil Action,” based on a true environmental legal case.
Stream “Civil Litigation”: Prime Video (purchase or rent)
Duvall won an Emmy for “Broken Trail,” where he played an elderly cowboy alongside his nephew, transporting horses while facing challenges.
Stream “Broken Trail”: Prime Video (purchase or rent)
His final Academy Award nomination was for “The Judge,” in which he played a father caught in a murder investigation needing to reconnect with his family.
Stream “The Judge”: Prime Video (purchase or rent)
One of his last roles was in “Hustle,” portraying the owner of the Philadelphia 76ers, showcasing his continued commitment to diverse projects.
Stream “Hustle”: Netflix
