Mark Rydell Dies At 97

Mark Rydell, the Oscar-nominated director of 'On Golden Pond', 'The Rose', and 'For the Boys', has died at the age of 97. His death was announced by Bette Midler on Instagram, who starred in two of his films.

Rydell directed 'On Golden Pond', which earned over $119 million at the box office and received an Oscar nomination for directing. He also directed 'The Rose' and 'For the Boys', both starring Bette Midler.

Rydell started his career as an actor before becoming a director, with his first feature film as a director being 'The Fox' in 1967. He collaborated with James Caan on 'Cinderella Liberty' and 'Harry and Walter Go to New York'.

Rydell's death was due to natural causes at a retirement community in Woodland Hills, Los Angeles. He is survived by his daughter Amy Rydell, who confirmed his passing.

## What He Leaves Behind Mark Rydell's legacy includes guiding Henry Fonda and Katharine Hepburn to Oscars and Jane Fonda to a supporting actress nomination for 'On Golden Pond' in 1981. He elicited strong performances from his actors, including Marsha Mason in 'Cinderella Liberty' and Sissy Spacek in 'The River'.

Bette Midler paid tribute to Rydell, saying he was the 'actor's whisperer' and that she was lucky to have met him. She credited him with her two Oscar nominations for 'The Rose' and 'For the Boys'.

Mark Rydell's impact on the film industry will be remembered through his notable works, including 'On Golden Pond', 'The Rose', and 'For the Boys'.