Robert Duvall Was the Most Underrated Figure in 'The Godfather'

The Academy Award-winning actor Robert Duvall, known to modern audiences for roles in Gone in 60 Seconds and The Judge, died at 95. He is best remembered for his portrayal of consigliere Tom Hagen in The Godfather (1972) and its 1974 sequel, a performance many view as his finest.

Hagen was not a Corleone by blood but grew up with the family, became their lawyer, and earned Don Vito's trust. He stayed when everything began to crumble, often remaining in the background compared with other major characters while proving essential to the family's survival.

The character brought balance to the films' moral landscape: he speaks Sicilian, marries into the community, refuses to kill, yet does what is needed for the Corleones. He shows shame over Sonny's murder, resents being sidelined, and carries a quiet doubt even as he pledges loyalty—tensions that deepen the story.

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