Robert Hinkle, Who Taught Rock Hudson and Paul Newman to Talk Like a Texan, Dies at 95

Robert Hinkle, a former rodeo performer and stuntman, has passed away at the age of 95. He was known for his work as a dialogue coach on several classic films, including Giant and Hud, where he taught actors such as Rock Hudson and Paul Newman to speak with a Texan accent. Hinkle's career in Hollywood was diverse, with credits as a stunt performer, dialogue coach, and even a promoter for daredevil Evel Knievel. He also worked with other notable actors, including James Dean, Elizabeth Taylor, and Patricia Neal.

Hinkle's experience as a Texan himself made him an ideal candidate to teach actors how to adopt the accent. He recalled in his book, Call Me Lucky: A Texan in Hollywood, that Texans "don't just say the words, they linger over them like they're old friends, worthy of a cup of coffee." This approach to dialogue coaching helped to create a more authentic sound in the films he worked on. Hinkle's own film, Ole Rex, which he wrote, directed, and produced, was shot in Texas and tells the story of a boy who rescues a wounded dog.

Hinkle's death was announced by his daughter, Melody Hinkle, who said he had suffered head, back, and neck injuries in a fall in his driveway. He died on March 3 in hospice care in Austin. Throughout his career, Hinkle worked with many notable figures in the entertainment industry, including actors, directors, and musicians. His legacy as a dialogue coach and stuntman will be remembered for his contributions to classic films.