The Role Robert Duvall Loved Most — and the Stories Behind It

Legendary actor Robert Duvall, who passed away at 95, had a career filled with unforgettable characters — from his roles in The Godfather to Apocalypse Now — but there was one role he returned to again and again in conversation as his favorite: Augustus “Gus” McCrae in the 1989 miniseries Lonesome Dove.

In interviews and on social media in recent years, Duvall shared what made the experience so special and the stories behind the scenes that brought the Texas Ranger to life. From training...