Robert Wagner
Actor
About Robert Wagner
Robert John Wagner Jr. is an American actor whose career has spanned over seven decades in Hollywood. Born into a wealthy Detroit family, Wagner moved to Los Angeles as a teenager and pursued acting against his family's wishes. He was discovered by a talent scout at 17 and signed with 20th Century Fox, quickly becoming a teen idol in the early 1950s. His breakthrough role came in 1953's 'Beneath the 12-Mile Reef,' which showcased his matinee idol looks and dramatic potential. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Wagner established himself as a leading man in both films and television, starring in classics like 'A Kiss Before Dying' (1956), 'The Longest Day' (1962), and 'The Pink Panther' (1963). He successfully transitioned to television stardom with hits like 'It Takes a Thief' (1968-1970) and the iconic 'Hart to Hart' (1979-1984) alongside his wife Stefanie Powers. Wagner's career experienced a resurgence in the 1990s and 2000s with the 'Austin Powers' films, where he played Number 2, introducing him to a new generation of fans. His enduring presence in Hollywood has made him one of the last remaining links to Golden Age Hollywood cinema.
The Craft
On Screen
Wagner developed a smooth, charismatic acting style that evolved from early teen idol roles to sophisticated leading man performances. His early work featured a naturalistic approach that contrasted with the more theatrical styles of older Hollywood actors. He excelled at playing charming, slightly dangerous characters, particularly in film noir and thriller genres. His television work showcased his comedic timing and ability to carry long-form narrative series. In his later career, he demonstrated remarkable versatility, transitioning seamlessly from dramatic roles to self-aware comedy in the Austin Powers films.
Milestones
- Breakthrough role in 'Beneath the 12-Mile Reef' (1953)
- Golden Globe nomination for 'A Kiss Before Dying' (1956)
- Star of 'It Takes a Thief' TV series (1968-1970)
- Co-star and producer of 'Hart to Hart' (1979-1984)
- Memorable role as Number 2 in 'Austin Powers' trilogy (1997-2002)
- Published autobiography 'Pieces of My Heart' in 2008
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Won
- Golden Boot Award (1998)
- Hollywood Walk of Fame Star (1960)
- TV Land Legend Award (2007, shared with Stefanie Powers)
Nominated
- Golden Globe Award for Most Promising Newcomer (1954)
- Golden Globe Award for Best Actor - Motion Picture Drama (1957)
- Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Continued Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role (1970)
Special Recognition
- Hollywood Walk of Fame Star at 7021 Hollywood Blvd
- John Wayne Cancer Institute Auxiliary's 'True Grit' Humanitarian Award (2014)
- Lifetime Achievement Award from the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival (2015)
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Robert Wagner represents one of the last living connections to Hollywood's Golden Age, embodying the transition from studio system stardom to modern celebrity culture. His evolution from teen idol to respected character actor mirrors the changing landscape of American entertainment. Wagner's television success in the 1970s helped establish the model for actor-producers in television, giving stars more creative control over their projects. His role in the Austin Powers films demonstrated his cultural relevance across generations, introducing classic Hollywood charm to millennial audiences. As a recurring presence in entertainment media, Wagner has served as a primary source for Hollywood history, preserving stories of an era that has largely faded from living memory.
Lasting Legacy
Wagner's legacy encompasses both his extensive body of work and his role as a Hollywood survivor who adapted to multiple eras of entertainment. His filmography spans seven decades, making him one of the few actors to have worked with legends like Spencer Tracy and contemporary stars like Mike Myers. His television productions, particularly 'Hart to Hart,' exemplified the glossy, sophisticated escapist entertainment that defined 1980s television. Beyond his performances, Wagner has become an important oral historian of Hollywood's golden era, sharing firsthand accounts of working with icons like Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra, and Cary Grant. His resilience through personal tragedies and career transitions has made him a symbol of Hollywood longevity and adaptability.
Who They Inspired
Wagner influenced subsequent generations of actors through his demonstration of career longevity and adaptability. His transition from film star to television producer showed actors how to maintain relevance beyond their matinee idol years. His smooth, understated acting style influenced the more naturalistic approach that became dominant in the 1960s and 1970s. Many actors have cited Wagner's ability to reinvent himself as inspiration for managing long-term careers in an industry known for short-lived fame. His business acumen in producing his own television projects paved the way for actors like Tom Hanks and George Clooney to become successful producers. Wagner's openness about personal struggles has also influenced how modern celebrities approach public discussion of their private challenges.
Off Screen
Wagner's personal life has been as dramatic as his on-screen roles. He was famously married to actress Natalie Wood twice, first from 1957-1962 and again from 1972 until her mysterious death in 1981. Their relationship was one of Hollywood's most storied romances, marked by passion, reconciliation, and tragedy. In 1982, he began a long-term partnership with Jill St. John, whom he married in 1990. Wagner has three daughters: Katie (from his marriage to Marion Marshall), and Natasha and Courtney Wood (with Natalie Wood). He has been open about his struggles with alcoholism in his early career and his journey to sobriety. His memoir revealed intimate details about his relationships and the circumstances surrounding Natalie Wood's death.
Education
Attended Santa Monica High School, but dropped out to pursue acting. Later studied at the Actors Lab in Los Angeles to refine his craft.
Family
- Natalie Wood (1957-1962)
- Marion Marshall (1963-1970)
- Natalie Wood (1972-1981, until her death)
- Jill St. John (1990-present)
Did You Know?
- Was roommates with actor Jeffrey Hunter early in his career
- Turned down the role of Tony in 'West Side Story' (1961)
- Was considered for the role of James Bond before Sean Connery was cast
- His godfather was movie mogul Harry Cohn
- Survived a serious boating accident in 2006 that killed a friend
- Was a close friend of Ronald Reagan and supported his political career
- Appeared in over 70 films and television series throughout his career
- Was a licensed pilot and owned several aircraft
- His first acting job was an uncredited role in 'The Happy Years' (1950)
- Was originally cast as JR Ewing in 'Dallas' but was replaced by Larry Hagman
In Their Own Words
I've been very fortunate in my career. I've worked with some of the greatest people in the business.
Hollywood is a place where they'll pay you a thousand dollars for a kiss and fifty cents for your soul.
I think the key to longevity is to keep working and to keep reinventing yourself.
Natalie and I had a love that was very special. We were soulmates.
Television in the 1970s was a wonderful time for actors. We had more freedom and creative control.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Robert Wagner?
Robert Wagner is an American actor whose career has spanned over seven decades, from his breakout role in 1953's 'Beneath the 12-Mile Reef' to his memorable performances in television and film. He's known for his matinee idol looks, smooth acting style, and successful transition from film to television stardom.
What films is Robert Wagner best known for?
Wagner is best known for 'Beneath the 12-Mile Reef' (1953), 'A Kiss Before Dying' (1956), 'The Longest Day' (1962), 'The Pink Panther' (1963), 'Harper' (1966), 'The Towering Inferno' (1974), and the 'Austin Powers' trilogy (1997-2002) where he played Number 2.
When was Robert Wagner born and when did he die?
Robert Wagner was born on February 10, 1930, in Detroit, Michigan. He is still alive as of 2024, making him one of the last surviving stars from Hollywood's Golden Age.
What awards did Robert Wagner win?
Wagner received a Golden Boot Award in 1998, a Hollywood Walk of Fame star in 1960, and a TV Land Legend Award in 2007. He was nominated for Golden Globe awards for 'A Kiss Before Dying' and for Most Promising Newcomer in 1954.
What was Robert Wagner's acting style?
Wagner developed a smooth, charismatic acting style that evolved from teen idol roles to sophisticated leading man performances. He excelled at playing charming, slightly dangerous characters and was known for his naturalistic approach that contrasted with more theatrical styles of older Hollywood actors.
Who was Robert Wagner married to?
Wagner was famously married to Natalie Wood twice (1957-1962 and 1972-1981), to Marion Marshall (1963-1970), and has been married to actress Jill St. John since 1990.
What television shows did Robert Wagner star in?
Wagner starred in the successful TV series 'It Takes a Thief' (1968-1970), 'Switch' (1975-1978), and most famously 'Hart to Hart' (1979-1984) alongside Stefanie Powers.
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Films
1 film
