Ryan O’Neal, the iconic actor known for films like Love Story and Barry Lyndon,

passed away in December 2023 at the age of 82 after battling l’eukemia, pro’state can’cer,

and heart failure. Despite his successful career, his personal life was often marred by

controversies, including his tumultuous relationship with actress Farrah Fawcett, with whom he had a son, Redmond.

Redmond, who has struggled with addiction and mental health issues, was notably absent

from his father’s funeral as he was incarcerated at the time. His absence wasn’t as shocking

given his troubled history, but two of O’Neal’s other children, Griffin and Tatum, were also missing.

Griffin, estranged from his father after a violent altercation, shared that he wasn’t even invited

to the service, though he drove 2,000 miles to attend. Tatum, who had reconciled with her father in

the late 2000s, expressed sorrow at his passing but was also absent from the small memorial,

which only included around 25 people. Patrick O’Neal, O’Neal’s son from his second marriage,

organized the service and defended his father against criticisms.

The burial took place beside Farrah Fawcett, with whom Ryan had a lifelong connection despite

their many difficulties. There was controversy surrounding the decision to bury O’Neal next to Fawcett,

with some accusing him of going against her final wishes. However, friends of the

couple defended their bond, asserting that their love was genuine.

Amid this family drama, Patrick has been outspoken in defending his father’s legacy,

especially when O’Neal was omitted from the “in memoriam” segment at the 2024 Emmys.

Patrick criticized the Television Academy for the snub but was later pleased when his father was finally included in the tribute.