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Mark Rydell Dies at 97 in Los Angeles

8/15/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Mark Rydell died Thursday of natural causes in Los Angeles at age 97.
He died at the Motion Picture & Television Country House in Woodland Hills, according to his daughter Amy.
Bette Midler announced his death on Instagram, calling him a whisperer who secured her two Oscar nominations.
Rydell earned an Oscar nomination for On Golden Pond.
He directed The Rose (1979) and the 1991 wartime musical For The Boys.

History

Historical Context

AMPAS held its inaugural Oscars on May 16 1929 at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, presenting twelve awards to a 270-person audience while announcing winners three months in advance. That early focus on honoring directors established a tradition that still celebrates veteran filmmakers such as Mark Rydell, illustrating the Academy’s enduring role in shaping cinematic heritage.

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Story summary

Mark Rydell died Thursday of natural causes in Los Angeles at age 97.
He died at the Motion Picture & Television Country House in Woodland Hills, according to his daughter Amy.
Bette Midler announced his death on Instagram, calling him a whisperer who secured her two Oscar nominations.
Rydell earned an Oscar nomination for On Golden Pond.
He directed The Rose (1979) and the 1991 wartime musical For The Boys.

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