Natalie Wood's Daughter Reflects on Learning of Actress's Death at 11

Natasha Gregson Wagner was 11 years old when her ordinary childhood sleepover was shattered by the news of her mother, Hollywood actress Natalie Wood's, death. Gregson Wagner learned of her mother's passing on the radio while at a friend's house. Wood's body was found floating in the water off Catalina Island on Thanksgiving weekend in 1981. She was 43.

Investigators initially ruled Wood's death an accidental drowning but reopened the case in 2011. The reopening came after the yacht's captain stated he heard the couple arguing the night of her disappearance. In 2012, the Los Angeles County coroner's office amended Wood's death certificate, changing the cause of death to "drowning and other undetermined factors." While Robert Wagner, Wood's husband, was considered a person of interest in 2018, the sheriff's department stated in 2022 that he was no longer considered as such. Wagner has consistently denied any involvement in his wife's death.

Gregson Wagner recounted the immediate aftermath of her mother's death, noting the support she received from both her biological father, Richard Gregson, and her stepfather, Robert Wagner. "Luckily, I had these two men, Daddy Gregson and Daddy Wagner, who came together and rose to the occasion and completely put me first," Gregson Wagner told the Daily Mail. "They got me into therapy right away, and I had that same amazing therapist here in Beverly Hills until my 20s."

She also described how her fathers shielded her from the intense media scrutiny surrounding Wood's death, ensuring she had a semblance of a normal childhood. This included learning everyday tasks like doing laundry and cooking. Gregson Wagner stated that she managed to avoid the pitfalls of drugs and alcohol that have affected some children of famous parents.

Wood, a three-time Oscar nominee known for her roles in "West Side Story" and "Rebel Without a Cause," married Robert Wagner twice. They divorced in 1962 and remarried in 1972, remaining together until her death. Wagner, who is now 96, helped raise Gregson Wagner and was a central figure in her life. Gregson Wagner expressed pride in her father's courage and transparency, particularly in discussions surrounding Wood's death.

Gregson Wagner also launched a fragrance brand, L'Amour Mere, inspired by her mother and their connection through scent. She has spoken about the enduring impact of her mother's absence, noting their strong resemblance and shared traits. Gregson Wagner recalled people frequently commenting on her likeness to the actress before she acknowledged her mother's identity.

Gregson Wagner continues to feel her mother's presence, especially when interacting with her own daughter, Clover. She described Wood as a joyful, nurturing mother who created a bustling and loving atmosphere for her children. Gregson Wagner believes her mother lived the life she wanted, even though it was tragically cut short.