Robert Duvall dies aged 95 Godfather star

Published: 17 February 2026. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online

Hollywood mourns the loss of one of its most revered screen legends as acclaimed actor Robert Duvall has died at the age of 95. Best known for his iconic role as Tom Hagen in The Godfather trilogy, Duvall’s extraordinary career spanned more than six decades and left an indelible mark on film, television and theatre.

Duvall’s passing was confirmed today by his family in a statement describing him as “a devoted father, husband and artist whose passion for storytelling was matched only by his humility.” No official cause of death was announced, but the family said he “passed peacefully surrounded by loved ones.”

Born on 5 January 1931 in San Diego, California, Duvall began acting in theatre before transitioning to screen work in the early 1960s. His breakthrough came with a memorable performance in To Kill a Mockingbird (1962), but it was his portrayal of consigliere Tom Hagen in Francis Ford Coppola’s The Godfather (1972) that cemented his place among Hollywood’s elite. He reprised the role in The Godfather Part II (1974) and The Godfather Part III (1990), becoming synonymous with one of cinema’s most enduring characters.

Over the years, Duvall’s versatility earned him accolades across genres. His performance as Lieutenant Colonel Bill Kilgore in Apocalypse Now (1979) delivered the unforgettable line “I love the smell of napalm in the morning,” while his chilling depiction of Boo Radley in To Kill a Mockingbird showcased his deep emotional range.

Duvall’s distinguished career garnered numerous awards, including an Academy Award for Best Actor for Tender Mercies (1983), as well as multiple Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild honors. He was widely respected by peers for his dedication to craft and his mentorship of younger actors.

Throughout his life, Duvall remained active in theatre, returning often to the stage in both classic and contemporary works. Colleagues remembered him as generous, curious and deeply committed to the stories he chose to tell.

Fans and industry figures alike have responded to the news with tributes reflecting his impact on cinema and culture. Director Steven Spielberg described Duvall as “a pillar of acting brilliance whose presence elevated every frame.” Fellow actor Meryl Streep wrote that he was “a master of subtlety and depth, whose performances will echo through time.”

Many fans took to social media to share favourite Duvall moments, from humble dramatic turns to larger-than-life characters in Westerns, dramas and thrillers. His ability to inhabit a role with authenticity and nuance earned him admiration across generations.

In a career marked by both artistry and longevity, Duvall worked with some of film’s most celebrated directors, including Coppola, George Roy Hill, Robert Altman and Ron Howard. His body of work remains a testament to his adaptability and enduring talent.

Duvall is survived by his children, grandchildren and a legacy of unforgettable performances that defined eras of American cinema.