Who Was Robert Duvall’s First Wife Barbara Benjamin?

Academy Award-winning actor Robert Duvall passed away peacefully at his home in Middleburg, Virginia, on February 15, 2026, at the age of 95. Known for iconic roles in The Godfather and Apocalypse Now, Duvall entertained audiences for over seven decades. The actor’s death was confirmed by his wife, Luciana Duvall, leaving fans and colleagues mourning the loss of a Hollywood legend.

“Here’s a look at his first marriage to Barbara Benjamin,” which marked an important chapter in his personal life.

Barbara Benjamin, born on August 10, 1936, in New York, was a former announcer and dancer on The Jackie Gleason Show and appeared in films like Guys and Dolls (1955) and The Courtship of Eddie’s Father (1963) under the stage name Barbara Brent. She had been married previously, with two daughters, Nancy and Suzan, before marrying Robert Duvall.

Robert and Barbara met during the filming of the 1962 classic To Kill a Mockingbird, where Duvall played ‘Boo Radley.’ Their friendship blossomed into romance, and they married in 1964. The couple remained together for 11 years, during which Robert helped raise Barbara’s daughters. They divorced in 1975.

After his split from Barbara, Duvall married Gail Youngs in 1982, and later Sharon Brophy in 1991, before finding lasting companionship with Luciana Pedraza. Luciana, an Argentine actress 41 years his junior, was married to Robert for over 20 years until his death. She confirmed his passing and shared that he died peacefully, surrounded by family.

While early reports cite natural causes, some outlets suggest he may have been privately battling an undisclosed medical condition for years. Robert Duvall’s death marks the end of an era in Hollywood, leaving behind a rich legacy of unforgettable performances.