Billy Crystal singled out Farnsworth at the 72nd Academy Awards telling everyone it was "great to see him, and his nomination was a great story."
Co-founder of Stuntmen's Association in 1961
Died of self-inflicted gunshot wound. Had been diagnosed with terminal cancer.
During the telecast of the 73rd Annual Academy Awards of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, Richard Farnsworth was honoured by being included in the always touching and memorable segment that pays tribute to those in the industry who have passed away over the course of the previous year. [25 March 2001]
Engaged to Jewely Van Valin at the time of his death.
Inducted into the Hall of Great Western Performers of the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum in 1997.
Is the oldest ever person to receive a Best Actor Oscar Nomination (79 at the time).
Known for a dislike of four letter words, he was embarrassed by the language in The Getaway (1994).
One son and one daughter, Diamond Farnsworth and Missy.
Shortly before his death, when asked by film critic Roger Ebert what he was most proud of in regards to his acting career, he replied that it was the fact that in over 60 movies he never says one cuss word.
Was a stunt man for 40 years before becoming an actor.