Robert Duvall Movies and TV Shows: A Legendary Career

Robert Duvall is more than just an actor; he is a pillar of American cinema. With a career spanning over eight decades, his filmography serves as a masterclass in versatility and grit. From his haunting debut as Boo Radley to his commanding presence as a Texas Ranger, Duvall has remained a household name for generations.

Following his passing in February 2026 at the age of 95, fans and film historians alike are revisiting the massive catalog of Robert Duvall movies and TV shows to celebrate a legacy that redefined modern acting.

The Best Robert Duvall Movies of All Time (Ranked)

When discussing the greatest films in history, Robert Duvall's name appears frequently. He had a knack for elevating every scene, whether he was the lead or a supporting player.

• The Godfather (1972): As Tom Hagen, the Corleone family's level-headed consigliere, Duvall provided the quiet, intellectual anchor to the film's explosive violence.
• Apocalypse Now (1979): "I love the smell of napalm in the morning." As Lt. Col. Bill Kilgore, Duvall delivered one of the most famous lines in movie history, earning an Oscar nomination in the process.
• Tender Mercies (1983): This film earned him the Academy Award for Best Actor. His portrayal of Mac Sledge, a washed-up country singer seeking redemption, is widely considered his most soulful performance.
• The Apostle (1997): Duvall not only starred as a charismatic but flawed Pentecostal preacher, but he also wrote and directed this passion project, proving his prowess behind the camera.
• The Great Santini (1979): A harrowing look at a military father's relationship with his family, showcasing Duvall's ability to play intimidating, complex patriarchs.

Robert Duvall's Iconic Westerns: From Lonesome Dove to Broken Trail

No actor fits the rugged landscape of the American West quite like Robert Duvall. He didn't just play cowboys; he embodied the stoicism and moral code of the frontier.

The "Godfather of Westerns"

Duvall himself famously noted that Lonesome Dove (1989) was the "Godfather of Westerns." His role as Augustus "Gus" McCrae is arguably his most beloved by fans. His chemistry with Tommy Lee Jones created a television event that remains the gold standard for the genre.

Later Western Classics

• Open Range (2003): Starring alongside Kevin Costner, Duvall played Boss Spearman, a man of few words and decisive action.
• Broken Trail (2006): This AMC miniseries earned Duvall an Emmy Award, proving that even in his 70s, he was the undisputed king of the Western genre.

Award-Winning Performances: Oscar Wins and Nominations

Duvall's trophy cabinet is a testament to his consistency. He was nominated for seven Academy Awards across five different decades, a feat few actors have ever achieved.

YearMovie / ShowAward CategoryResult1973The GodfatherBest Supporting ActorNominated1980Apocalypse NowBest Supporting ActorNominated1983Tender MerciesBest ActorWon1989Lonesome DoveBest Actor (Miniseries)Nominated (Emmy)1998The ApostleBest ActorNominated2007Broken TrailBest Actor (Miniseries)Won (Emmy)2015The JudgeBest Supporting ActorNominated

Robert Duvall TV Shows and Miniseries Highlights

While he is a cinema giant, some of Robert Duvall's best work happened on the small screen. Before becoming a movie star, he cut his teeth in the "Golden Age" of television.

• The Twilight Zone: Fans of classic TV can spot a young Duvall in the 1963 episode "Miniature."
• Stalin (1992): Duvall underwent a massive physical transformation to play the Soviet dictator in this HBO television movie, earning a Golden Globe for his performance.
• Ike (1979): He portrayed Dwight D. Eisenhower, showcasing his ability to inhabit real-life historical figures with ease.

From Boo Radley to Tom Hagen: A Career-Defining Filmography

Duvall's career is unique because he never stayed in one "lane." He could play a terrifying villain, a gentle mentor, or a comedic foil.

He made his big-screen debut in To Kill a Mockingbird (1962). Despite having zero lines of dialogue as the mysterious Boo Radley, his physical presence was so impactful that it launched his career. From there, he became a staple of 1970s "New Hollywood," appearing in MASH*, THX 1138, and The Conversation.

Robert Duvall's Final Roles and Career Legacy (1931–2026)

Even in his 90s, Robert Duvall refused to retire. His final years on screen showed an actor who had lost none of his sharpness.

• The Pale Blue Eye (2022): Acting opposite Christian Bale, Duvall played Jean Pépé in a haunting gothic mystery.
• 12 Mighty Orphans (2021): A touching role in a football drama that reminded audiences of his ability to play a heartwarming mentor.

Robert Duvall passed away on February 15, 2026, at his home in Virginia. He leaves behind a body of work that spans the history of modern film, from the black-and-white era to the age of streaming.

Complete List of Robert Duvall Movies and TV Shows

If you are looking to binge-watch his career, here is a chronological snapshot of his most significant credits:

• 1960s: To Kill a Mockingbird, The Twilight Zone, Bullitt, True Grit.
• 1970s: The Godfather, Joe Kidd, The Godfather Part II, Network, Apocalypse Now.
• 1980s: The Great Santini, Tender Mercies, The Natural, Colors, Lonesome Dove.
• 1990s: Days of Thunder, Sling Blade, The Apostle, Deep Impact.
• 2000s: Gone in 60 Seconds, Open Range, Broken Trail, Get Low.
• 2010s–2020s: Jack Reacher, The Judge, Widows, The Pale Blue Eye.