With a career spanning over 70 years, Robert Wagner is one of Hollywood and television’s most beloved icons. The now 96-year-old started his career as a “teen heartthrob.” Best known for his roles in ‘It Takes a Thief’ and ‘Hart to Hart,’ Robert Wagner also possesses a greater philosophy in life. Reflecting on the necessity of personal growth, he once said, “You find you’re standing still, and not intentionally. You’re getting nowhere. You have to move. You have to grow.”
Robert Wagner’s advice on personal growth
During a 1962 interview with Photoplay Magazine, Robert reflected on stagnation in life and famously said, “You find you’re standing still, and not intentionally. You’re getting nowhere. You have to move. You have to grow.” Giving a lesson from his own experience, he said, “You have to flip that page or flip your lid. I chose to do the former.” The full sentiment emphasizes that staying in one place, whether emotionally, professionally, or personally, is a form of decline if it isn’t a conscious choice.
Robert Wagner’s words reflect on his journey
Wagner’s words also reflect the phase he was going through in his career at the time. After a decade as a “golden boy,” Wagner was at a crossroads, as his contract had ended and his high-profile marriage to Natalie Wood also collapsed. Despite the downs, Wagner didn’t stay stagnant; in fact, he moved, and eventually he grew. Wagner moved to Europe, which led to his casting in 1963’s ‘The Pink Panther.’ This role proved his versatility and ability to handle mature roles. Wagner later transitioned to television, and that resulted in his most iconic works like ‘It Takes a Thief,’ ‘Switch,’ and the global phenomenon ‘Hart to Hart.’At 96, Wagner’s career serves as the ultimate proof of his own words: by choosing to “move” whenever he felt stuck, he transformed a fleeting moment of stardom into a lifetime of influence.