Robert Wagner, the charming star known for his roles in classic TV series such as It Takes a Thief, Switch, and Hart to Hart, has long been a prominent figure in Hollywood. His impressive career includes collaborations with icons like Raquel Welch, Paul Newman, and Debbie Reynolds, but it was his romance with the enchanting Natalie Wood that truly captured the public’s imagination.
Natalie Wood, who began her career as a child actress in beloved films like Miracle on 34th Street, first met Wagner when she was just 10 years old. In a 1976 interview with People magazine, Wood recounted, “I was 10 and he was 18 when I first saw him walking down a hall at 20th Century Fox. I turned to my mother and said, ‘I’m going to marry him.’” True to her word, the couple married in 1957, divorced in 1962, and eventually remarried in 1972 after a decade apart.
Their love story, however, faced numerous obstacles, particularly as both Wagner and Wood had children from previous relationships. Wagner had a daughter named Katie with his first wife, Marion Mitchell, while Wood had a daughter named Natasha with producer Richard Gregson. Despite their pasts and the challenges they encountered, Wagner and Wood’s love for each other never wavered. They reconnected and ultimately raised a daughter together, Courtney, who was born in 1974.
Tragedy struck on November 28, 1981, when Wood drowned under mysterious circumstances during a yacht outing with Wagner and actor Christopher Walken. The details surrounding her death remain unclear, leaving many questions unanswered. In the wake of this devastating loss, Wagner became the legal guardian of Natasha, who was just 11 at the time.
Now 52, Natasha Gregson Wagner has become an actress and is fiercely protective of her father. She has dedicated years to defending his character amid the speculation surrounding her mother’s death. In the 2020 HBO documentary Natalie Wood: What Remains Behind, which she co-produced, Natasha spoke candidly about the pain her family has endured. “For so many years we were advised to ignore or not talk about it,” she said. “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.”
At 93, Wagner continues to endure scrutiny but remains deeply committed to his family. His love for his children and grandchildren shines through in his social media presence, where he often shares heartfelt messages and photos. On Father’s Day, he posted a touching picture of himself surrounded by his loved ones, expressing gratitude for being a father and grandfather to such incredible individuals.
Despite the profound tragedy that has marked their lives, Wagner’s love for Natalie Wood remains steadfast. He honors her memory through heartfelt posts on Instagram, including a recent wedding photo accompanied by the touching caption, “Natalie was my girl and then she was my wife. Happy 65th anniversary, Nat. More than love.”
The enduring love story of Robert Wagner and Natalie Wood has captured the hearts of many for decades. Their relationship reflects a deep and abiding affection that continues to resonate with fans of classic Hollywood. What are your thoughts on this iconic couple?
