Robert Wagner Honors Natalie Wood on 44th Death Anniversary

On the 44th anniversary of her passing, actor Robert Wagner paid tribute to his late wife, Natalie Wood, expressing his enduring love and remembrance. In a heartfelt message shared on his official Instagram account on November 29, 2025, Wagner reflected on Wood’s life and legacy, stating, “Her warmth, beauty, and love remain with us through our children and grandchildren. Forever missed, forever cherished. More than love.”

Tragic Circumstances Surrounding Wood’s Death

Natalie Wood drowned on a boat trip off the coast of California in November 1981. She was only 43 years old at the time of her untimely death. Wagner, along with actor Christopher Walken and their longtime skipper, Dennis Davern, were present on the boat during the incident. The circumstances surrounding her death have remained a topic of discussion and speculation over the years.

The couple, who married in 1957 before divorcing in 1962 and later remarrying in 1972, shared two daughters: Courtney Brooke Wagner and Natasha Gregson Wagner. Wagner adopted Natasha from Wood’s previous marriage. Following Wood’s death, he expressed profound grief, stating in his 2016 memoir, I Loved Her in the Movies: Memories of Hollywood’s Legendary Actresses, “When Natalie died, I thought my life was over.” He emphasized the support he received from friends and family during that difficult time.

Legacy and Impact of Natalie Wood

Reflecting on Wood’s legacy, Robert Wagner noted her joy and fulfillment as a mother. In a recent interview with PEOPLE, Natasha Gregson Wagner discussed the ongoing relevance of her mother’s impact even decades after her death. She remarked, “It’s just unbelievable that there’s a relevancy to her all these years later. And that people really feel that they knew her or that they feel this protectiveness toward her.”

Natasha, who was just 11 years old when her mother passed away, expressed pride in Wood’s ability to touch lives. She stated, “Maybe her ability to touch people is larger with her not being here on earth.” As a mother herself, Natasha finds solace in sharing memories of her mother with her daughter, Clover, who is now 13. “It’s just really amazing for me to help Clover understand, help myself understand, and to turn my grief into something positive,” she shared.

Robert Wagner’s tribute on social media serves as a poignant reminder of the love shared between him and Natalie Wood, as well as the lasting impact of her legacy on their family and beyond. As fans and loved ones reflect on her life, it is evident that Natalie Wood’s memory continues to resonate deeply within the hearts of those who knew her and admired her work.