Entangled as a “person of interest” in the mysterious death of his wife, Natalie Wood, Robert Wagner’s devoted daughter Natasha Gregson Wagner says she had to help clear her father’s name in what’s been “years of painful speculation.”
At 93 years old, Robert Wagner is not only a legendary actor but also a loving father. Known for his dashing looks and charismatic performances, Wagner has captivated audiences for decades through popular TV series like It Takes a Thief, Switch, and Hart to Hart. Despite being romantically linked with Hollywood’s hottest stars, including Joan Crawford, Elizabeth Taylor, Joan Collins, and Barbara Stanwyck, it was Natalie Wood who captured his heart.
In an interview, Wood reminisced about the first time she laid eyes on Wagner when she was just 10 years old. She saw him walking down a hall at 20th Century Fox and told her mother, “I’m going to marry him.” And that’s exactly what she did. The couple married not once, but twice. After their first marriage in 1957 and subsequent divorce in 1962, they were separated for a decade. However, they found their way back to each other, remarried in 1972, and had a beautiful daughter named Courtney in 1974.
Tragically, Wood passed away at the age of 43 in a drowning incident. The circumstances surrounding her death remain a mystery to this day. After her passing, Wagner became the legal guardian of their daughter Natasha, who was only 11 at the time. The now 52-year-old Natasha is fiercely protective of her father and has worked tirelessly to clear his name from the cloud of speculation surrounding the tragedy.
“For so many years, we were advised to ignore or not talk about it,” says Natasha in the HBO documentary Natalie Wood: What Remains Behind, which she co-produced. “But enough is enough. I know that if my mom had been in any kind of distress, he would have given his life for her.” These words resonate deeply with Wagner, who has always maintained his innocence. “She said that because she knows me and she knows that I never would have done anything to hurt her mother,” he affirms.
Despite facing adversity and tragedy, Wagner has always been a dedicated father. He remarried actor Jill St. John in 1982 and became a source of strength and support for his children. In the face of his daughters’ overwhelming loss, Wagner sought guidance from a therapist to help them understand and navigate their new reality. Natasha, referencing her biological father and Wagner, her stepdad, expresses her gratitude for their unwavering commitment to her upbringing and emotional well-being.
Wagner’s devotion to his children and grandchildren is evident on his Instagram page, where he frequently shares heartwarming photos and messages. On Father’s Day, he posted a picture of himself surrounded by his children and grandkids, expressing how blessed he feels to be a father and grandfather. Fans can’t help but admire his timeless elegance and genuine happiness.
Wagner’s Instagram feed also serves as a tribute to his late wife, Natalie Wood. In one touching post, he shares a wedding photo of the two, captioned, “Natalie was my girl, and then she was my wife. Happy 65th anniversary, Nat. More than love.” These glimpses into their lives leave a lasting impact on fans, who are reminded of their enduring love story.
Robert Wagner is not only a remarkable actor but also a remarkable father. His active presence in the lives of his children and his unwavering love for Natasha, Courtney, and Katie demonstrate his commitment to family. Despite the challenges and tragedies they have faced, Wagner’s love for his daughters is unwavering. His Instagram posts serve as a testament to the deep connection he shares with each of them, as well as the enduring legacy of Natalie Wood.
As fans, we are grateful to witness the heartwarming bond between Robert Wagner and his family. Through his candor, love, and dedication, he continues to inspire and touch the hearts of many.
