Mark Rydell, Golden Pond Director, Passes at 97 | Mesa News

Mesa News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Aug 17, 2026 · 1m

Legendary director Mark Rydell, Oscar-nominated for the beloved classic “On Golden Pond,” has died at 97. His film, a 1981 smash that earned Henry Fonda his sole Oscar and brought him critical acclaim, was just one of many triumphs — including multiple Oscar nods for “The Fox,” “The Reivers,” and “Cinderella Liberty.” Beyond directing, Rydell starred in iconic soaps like “The Edge of Night” and “As the World Turns.” His daughter confirmed his peaceful passing in LA, recalling him as a gifted, hilarious force who worked with Hollywood’s elite. “On Golden Pond” itself was a powerhouse: ten…