Robert Thurman, Father of Actress Uma Thurman, Dies at 84

The academic world is mourning the loss of Robert Thurman, a trailblazing Buddhist scholar whose work shaped the way the West understands Tibetan culture and spirituality.

Robert Thurman, a celebrated academic and the father of Oscar-nominated actress Uma Thurman, has died at the age of 84. Tibet House US, the cultural center he co-founded, confirmed the news on Wednesday, June 17.

Robert Thurman visits The Strand Bookstore on July 17, 2008 in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

Robert passed away the day before, on June 16, 2026, in Woodstock, New York. The organization's announcement read:

The post, shared on Instagram, included the well-known Tibetan Buddhism mantra "Om Mani Padme Hum," which translates to "the jewel in the lotus" and represents the sacred call of Avalokiteshvara — said to embody infinite compassion. The Thurman family requested privacy as they grieve.

Nena, Robert, and Uma Thurman attend "The Producers" New York City Premiere After Party on May 9, 2008. | Source: Getty Images

Those who had followed the longtime scholar's work flooded the comments section with heartfelt tributes.

Ben Decker, a meditation teacher and program director at Rythmia, wrote, "A giant has left the stage. Robert Thurman helped build a bridge between the wisdom of Tibet and the modern world without sacrificing depth, rigor, humor, or humanity."

"His scholarship, teaching, and lifelong devotion to compassion shaped countless lives (including many who may never realize how much of their understanding traces back to his work)."

Alex Grey, co-founder of Chapel of Sacred Mirrors, added, "Deepest condolences to the Thurman family and Tibet House dharma community. Thank you Tenzin Bob! Love you so much precious teacher, living in our hearts. 🙏❤️."

Robert built a remarkable legacy through his dedication to popularizing Buddhist teachings in the Western world. In 1965, he became the first American to be ordained as a Tibetan Buddhist monk by His Holiness the Dalai Lama — a historic milestone that set the tone for a lifetime of groundbreaking scholarship.

He went on to serve as the Jey Tsong Khapa Professor of Indo-Tibetan Buddhist Studies in the Department of Religion at Columbia University for 30 years, a tenure that lasted until 2020. That same year, he received the prestigious Padma Shri Award in recognition of his efforts to recover and preserve India's ancient Buddhist heritage.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama (R) and Robert Thurman attend The Newark Peace Education Summit press conference at the Robert Treat Hotel on May 12, 2011 in Newark, New Jersey. | Source: Getty Images

A prolific author on topics spanning Tibet, Buddhism, art, politics, and culture, Robert earned widespread recognition for his expertise. The New York Times named him the leading American expert on Tibetan Buddhism, while Time Magazine counted him among the 25 most influential Americans in 1997.

The latter described him as a "larger than life scholar-activist destined to convey the Dharma, the precious teachings of Shakyamuni Buddha, from Asia to America."

Bob Thurman attends the 15th AIDS Gala at the Deutsche Oper on November 8, 2008 in Berlin, Germany. | Source: Getty Images

In 1987, Robert — whose journey with Buddhism began after he lost his eye in an accident — co-founded Tibet House US alongside actor Richard Gere and composer Philip Glass, years after setting aside his monastic robes when he concluded he could make a greater impact outside formal religious life.

The New York City-based non-profit has since been devoted to the preservation of Tibetan culture. He also served as president of the American Institute of Buddhist Studies, a non-profit affiliated with Columbia University's Center for Buddhist Studies and focused on publishing translations of significant Tibetan artistic and scientific texts.

Co-founder and president of Tibet House New York, Robert Thurman attends Tibet House Benefit Concert After Party 2015 at Metropolitan West on March 6 in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

Beyond his professional achievements, Robert was deeply devoted to his family. He is survived by his wife, Nena Thurman, whom he married in 1967 and remained with until his death. Together, they raised four children: Uma, 56, Ganden, 58, Dechen, 53, and Mipam, 48.

Robert was also previously married to heiress and costume designer Christophe de Menil, who passed away in August 2025 at the age of 92. Their marriage produced one child, Taya Thurman, 66.