Duvall received supporting actor Oscar nominations for both “The Godfather” and “Apocalypse Now” but declined to appear in the third installment of the mafia saga after a salary dispute — a decision widely lamented by fans and critics. He spoke openly about being offered less than his co-stars.
Known for meticulous preparation and intense focus, Duvall earned a reputation among fellow actors for his seriousness. Michael Caine once remarked that before a big scene, “Bobby just sits there, absolutely quiet; you know when not to talk to him.” His temper was equally legendary, flaring during the filming of the John Wayne Western “True Grit” after clashing with director Henry Hathaway.
He won the Academy Award in 1984 for “Tender Mercies,” accepting it in a cowboy tuxedo. In 1998, he was nominated again for best actor for The Apostle, a project he wrote, directed, produced and largely financed after spending 12 years developing it and visiting dozens of Southern churches for research.
Among his many other notable roles were appearances in True Grit, The Great Northfield Minnesota Raid, M*A*S*H, Network, The Seven-Per-Cent Solution and The Great Santini.
