Robert Duvall Struck a Chord — and Oscar Gold — With ‘Tender Mercies’
Hollywood Reporter
by Lexy PerezFebruary 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Robert Duvall, the legendary actor who passed away at 95, left an indelible mark on cinema with his portrayal of Mac Sledge in *Tender Mercies*, earning him his sole Academy Award. This 1983 indie drama, directed by Bruce Beresford, follows a struggling alcoholic country singer rebuilding his life alongside a widow and her son in rural Texas. Despite challenges during filming—such as clashes between Duvall and Beresford over creative differences—the movie found success, grossing $8.4 million and earning critical acclaim for Duvall's nuanced performance.
The film was nearly derailed due to its arduous production process, including struggles in finding a director willing to take on the project. Beresford, known for *Breaker Morant* and later *Driving Miss Daisy*, took on the role despite his unfamiliarity with Texas. Duvall immersed himself
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Originally published on Hollywood Reporter on 2/25/2026