NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedAugust 15, 2026Miami-Dade
Oscar-nominated director Mark Rydell dies at 97
Mark Rydell, the director of the 1981 film 'On Golden Pond,' has died at age 97. He was a prolific director and actor who worked on numerous films and television projects throughout his career.
Read the full story at WPLG Local 10 – Main FeedWhy It Matters
The death of a notable Hollywood director marks the end of a career that spanned several decades of American film and television history.
Key Facts
- Mark Rydell died at age 97 of natural causes at a retirement community in Woodland Hills, Los Angeles.
- Rydell directed 'On Golden Pond' (1981), which earned 10 Oscar nominations and over $119 million at the box office.
- Rydell received an Oscar nomination for Best Director for 'On Golden Pond'.
- Rydell was born on March 23, 1929, in New York City.
- Rydell co-founded Sanford Productions with Sydney Pollack in 1971.
- Rydell served as co-artistic director of The Actors Studio West alongside Martin Landau.
- Rydell's directorial filmography includes 'The Fox' (1967), 'The Reivers' (1969), 'The Rose' (1979), and 'The River' (1984).
- Rydell's acting credits include roles in 'The Long Goodbye' (1973) and 'Hollywood Ending' (2002).
Who's Mentioned
organizationUCLA“Institution where Rydell taught film workshops.”personBette Midler“Actress in 'The Rose'.”personJane Fonda“Actress in 'On Golden Pond'.”personSydney Pollack“Business partner and friend of Mark Rydell.”personKatharine Hepburn“Actress in 'On Golden Pond'.”personMark Rydell“Director of 'On Golden Pond' who died at 97.”personAmy Rydell“Daughter of Mark Rydell.”personHenry Fonda“Actor in 'On Golden Pond'.”