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Middleburg Today
By the People, for the People
Robert Duvall, Oscar-winning actor and 'Godfather' mainstay, dead at 95
The versatile actor, known for roles in 'The Godfather' and 'Apocalypse Now,' passed away peacefully at his Virginia home.
Published on Feb. 17, 2026
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Robert Duvall, the Oscar-winning actor renowned for his versatile performances in classic films like "The Godfather" and "Apocalypse Now," has died at the age of 95. Duvall passed away peacefully at his home in Middleburg, Virginia on Sunday. He was known for his dedication to his craft and his ability to disappear into a wide range of roles, from an Irishman in the Corleone crime family to a deranged military officer.
Why it matters
Duvall was considered one of the greatest character actors of his generation, earning seven Academy Award nominations and winning the Best Actor Oscar for his performance in "Tender Mercies." His death marks the end of an era for Hollywood, as he was one of the last remaining links to the golden age of cinema.
The details
Duvall made his film debut in 1962's "To Kill a Mockingbird" and went on to create an impressive body of work over the next six decades. He is perhaps best known for his roles in Francis Ford Coppola's "The Godfather" films, where he played the calm and collected consigliere Tom Hagen, and in Coppola's "Apocalypse Now," where he portrayed the unhinged Lieutenant Colonel Bill Kilgore. Duvall was known for his meticulous preparation and ability to disappear into his characters, often requiring only a few takes to nail a scene.
- Duvall died on Sunday, February 16, 2026 at his home in Middleburg, Virginia.
- He made his film debut in 1962 with "To Kill a Mockingbird."
The players
Robert Duvall
An Oscar-winning actor known for his versatile performances in classic films like "The Godfather" and "Apocalypse Now."
Francis Ford Coppola
The acclaimed director who cast Duvall in two of his most iconic films, "The Godfather" and "Apocalypse Now."
What they’re saying
“To the world, he was an Academy Award-winning actor, a director, a storyteller. To me, he was simply everything. His passion for his craft was matched only by his deep love for characters, a great meal, and holding court. For each of his many roles, Bob gave everything to his characters and to the truth of the human spirit they represented.”
— Luciana Duvall, Wife of Robert Duvall (Facebook)
“Actors click into character at different times — the first week, third week. Bobby's hot after one or two takes.”
— Francis Ford Coppola, Director
What’s next
There are no clear next steps or future newsworthy events related to this story.
The takeaway
Robert Duvall's passing marks the end of an era for Hollywood, as he was one of the last remaining links to the golden age of cinema. His versatile performances and dedication to his craft cemented his legacy as one of the greatest character actors of all time.
