Actor Ryan O’Neal, who was well-known for his Oscar-nominated roles in classic movies like “Love Story” and “Paper Moon,” passed suddenly on Friday at the age of 82. His son Patrick made the announcement on social media.
“My dad passed away peacefully today, with his loving team by his side supporting him and loving him as he would use,” Patrick O’Neal wrote in a heartfelt post. He continued to express his deep admiration for his father and called Ryan O’Neal his enduring hero, a figure larger than life.
Ryan O’Neal (Credits: The Hawk)
After making the move from television to cinema, Ryan O’Neal first gained notoriety in 1964 for his breakout performance on the evening soap opera “Peyton Place.” He co-starred with Ali MacGraw in the 1970 adaptation of Erich Segal’s novel “Love Story.” The picture, a moving story of love and loss, brought O’Neal to national attention, nominated him for an Oscar, and cemented his reputation as a legendary leading man.
Alongside Barbra Streisand in movies like “What’s Up, Doc?,” O’Neal demonstrated his comedic ability in addition to his tragic performances. In social media posts, Streisand, who was grieving O’Neal’s loss, praised his charm and humor, citing “The Main Event” and “The One.”
Even though “Love Story” was a huge hit, O’Neal had a varied career that included the Academy Award–winning picture “Paper Moon,” in which he acted with his daughter Tatum O’Neal. In the historical drama “Barry Lyndon,” the actor also worked with Stanley Kubrick.
Outside of the spotlight, O’Neal’s private life attracted a lot of interest, especially his connection with actress Farrah Fawcett. His love affairs, such as his unions with Leigh Taylor-Young and Joanna Moore, were exploited by tabloids.
Although O’Neal enjoyed professional success, his relationship with his daughter Tatum was strained, as the reality series “Ryan and Tatum: The O’Neals” (2011) examined. O’Neal’s latter career included parts in TV shows including “Bones,” “Bull,” “Desperate Housewives,” and the relaunch of “90210.” Their relationship was stressed even more by Tatum’s open battles with addiction.
Once Tatum O’Neal’s son posted on social media that the family had made amends, evidence of reconciliation began to surface in 2020. In the wake of Ryan O’Neal’s death, Tatum conveyed his profound grief while highlighting their relationship’s happy ending and their intense love.
Tatum, Griffin, Redmond James, and Patrick are Ryan O’Neal’s four surviving children. His impact on the entertainment business is still felt today. He had passed away earlier in the year, preceded by his brother, the actor Kevin O’Neal.
