United News of Bangladesh

Oscar-winning Hollywood actor Robert Duvall, best known for his roles in The Godfather and Apocalypse Now, has died at the age of 95. Duvall died peacefully at his home in Middleburg, Virginia, on Sunday, according to a statement issued by his public relations agency on behalf of his wife, Luciana. She described him as not only an award-winning actor and filmmaker but also her entire world, praising his deep commitment to his craft and his love for storytelling, food and lively conversation. Tributes quickly poured in from across the film industry. Fellow Godfather star Al Pacino said it was an honour to work with Duvall, calling him a natural actor whose talent and understanding of the art would never be forgotten. Over a career spanning more than six decades, Duvall became renowned for portraying strong, often hard-edged characters. He played mafia consigliere Tom Hagen in The Godfather and The Godfather Part II, and a commanding US army officer in Apocalypse Now, directed by Francis Ford Coppola. His brief but memorable performance in Apocalypse Now, including the iconic napalm line, became one of cinema’s most quoted moments. Coppola described Duvall’s death as a major loss, saying he was an essential part of American Zoetrope from its earliest days. Duvall later revealed that he deliberately toned down his Apocalypse Now character to make it more believable. Duvall received seven Oscar nominations during his career and won best actor in 1983 for his role as a troubled country singer in Tender Mercies. His wide-ranging filmography also included Network, The Great Santini, The Handmaid’s Tale and The Judge. He often said his favourite role was Texas Ranger Augustus McCrae in the television miniseries Lonesome Dove. He made his screen debut in To Kill a Mockingbird, delivering a powerful, wordless performance as Boo Radley that earned lasting acclaim. Actor Alec Baldwin later said the role was emotionally devastating despite the absence of dialogue. Beyond acting, Duvall also wrote and directed films, including The Apostle, in which he played a conflicted evangelical preacher. Colleagues and co-stars remembered him not only for his immense talent but also for his warmth, humour and love of simple pleasures. In a closing message, his wife thanked fans for their support over the years and asked for privacy as the family remembers and celebrates a life that left a lasting mark on cinema.   With inputs from BBC