What Happened to Robert Wagner?

Robert John Wagner Jr., born on February 10, 1930, embarked on his acting career in the 1950s, quickly establishing himself as a leading man in Hollywood. His early film credits include "Titanic" (1953), which earned him a Golden Globe for Most Promising Newcomer, and "A Kiss Before Dying" (1956), where he played against type as a psychotic killer. Wagner successfully transitioned to television in the late 1960s, starring in the popular series "It Takes a Thief" (1968–1970), followed by "Switch" (1975–1978), and achieving widespread fame as one half of the crime-solving duo in "Hart to Hart" (1979–1984) alongside Stefanie Powers.

In his later career, Wagner enjoyed a resurgence in film with his role as Number 2 in the successful "Austin Powers" trilogy (1997, 1999, 2002). He also had recurring television roles, notably as Teddy Leopold in "Two and a Half Men" (2007–2008) and as Anthony DiNozzo Sr. in "NCIS" (2010–2019). These roles introduced him to new generations of viewers, solidifying his status as an enduring Hollywood presence. Beyond acting, Wagner has also been a spokesperson for reverse mortgage lenders and remains active on social media.

A significant and enduring aspect of Robert Wagner's public life is the mysterious death of his second wife, actress Natalie Wood, who drowned in 1981 off Catalina Island. Initially ruled an accidental drowning, the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department reopened the investigation in 2011, and in 2012, the coroner amended Wood's death certificate to state "drowning and other undetermined factors". In 2018, Wagner was named a "person of interest" in the ongoing investigation, with investigators stating they wished to speak with him further, noting inconsistencies in accounts and unexplained bruises on Wood's body. Wagner has consistently denied any involvement and has not been charged.

As of July 20, 2026, the investigation into Natalie Wood's death remains ongoing. Despite his advanced age of 96, Wagner continues to engage with his public. In March 2026, he participated in a YouTube interview reflecting on his extensive career. Most recently, on July 16, 2026, Wagner shared an emotional tribute to Natalie Wood on Instagram, marking what would have been their wedding anniversary, demonstrating his continued public acknowledgment of their shared past. He has been married to actress Jill St. John since 1990. While some reports in late 2025 suggested a retreat into silence and potential health issues, his 2026 activities indicate a continued, albeit perhaps less frequent, public presence.