Why Farrah Fawcett Reportedly Didn't Want To Be Buried With Ryan O'Neal

Enrico Welch 25 Jul 2025

The passing of a beloved public figure often brings with it a wave of reflection on their life, their loves, and their lasting impact. When actor Ryan O'Neal passed away on December 8, at the age of 82, reports quickly surfaced about his final resting place. It was widely shared that he would be laid to rest next to Farrah Fawcett, his longtime partner, in the tranquil grounds of Westwood Village Memorial Park. This news, for many, seemed to close a chapter on a storied Hollywood romance, a relationship that captivated fans for decades.

However, the narrative surrounding O'Neal's burial quickly took a turn, revealing a layer of complexity that perhaps many didn't expect. You see, while the public perception might have been one of eternal togetherness, a different story began to emerge from those who knew Farrah Fawcett well. This situation, in a way, brings to light the often private and deeply personal wishes of individuals, even those who lived much of their lives in the spotlight.

It turns out, according to sources close to the late actress, the idea of sharing a final resting place wasn't exactly what Farrah Fawcett had envisioned for herself. This revelation, published by the New York Post and echoed by others, paints a picture that challenges the initial reports and, honestly, adds a poignant twist to the story of these two iconic figures. So, what exactly was the truth behind Farrah's wishes, and why does this matter now?

Farrah Fawcett: A Brief Look at an Iconic Life
The Reported Wishes: A Different Story Emerges
The Burial Site and Public Perception
A Relationship of Enduring Love and Complexity
Voices from Farrah's Inner Circle
Ryan O'Neal's Final Moments and Legacy
The Son, Redmond O'Neal, and Family Dynamics

Farrah Fawcett: A Brief Look at an Iconic Life

Farrah Fawcett was, to many, a symbol of an era, a true superstar whose image graced countless posters and television screens. She captivated audiences with her bright smile and undeniable charm. Her journey through Hollywood was, in some respects, quite a ride, filled with incredible highs and, like anyone's life, its share of challenges. She left us too soon, at the age of 62, on June 25, 2009, after a brave battle with cancer. It's almost hard to believe how much time has passed since then, but her memory, truly, remains vivid for so many.

Here's a quick look at some personal details about Farrah Fawcett:

Full Name	Farrah Leni Fawcett
Born	February 2, 1947
Died	June 25, 2009 (Age 62)
Place of Birth	Corpus Christi, Texas, U.S.
Cause of Death	Anal cancer
Occupation	Actress, Model
Notable Role	Jill Munroe in Charlie's Angels
Partner	Ryan O'Neal (longtime partner)
Child	Redmond O'Neal
Burial Site	Westwood Village Memorial Park Cemetery, Los Angeles, California

The Reported Wishes: A Different Story Emerges

When Ryan O'Neal was laid to rest, just a couple of weeks after his passing, the news circulated that he was buried right next to Farrah Fawcett. This seemed, on the surface, like a natural progression for a couple who shared such a long and public history. However, the reality, as it often is, turned out to be a bit more complicated than the headlines suggested. A source close to Farrah Fawcett, speaking with the New York Post, made it very clear: Farrah did not want to be buried with him. And, actually, she really didn't.

This sentiment was, in fact, echoed by others who were close to Farrah. Her son, Griffin O'Neal, for instance, also stated that his mother never wanted to share a burial plot with Ryan. This information directly challenges the public narrative that emerged following Ryan's death, suggesting that his burial next to her might have been a decision made by others, or perhaps, a reflection of his own desires, rather than hers. It's a striking detail, honestly, and one that shifts how we might view their relationship's final chapter.

The fact that Ryan O'Neal now rests beside Farrah Fawcett, despite these reports of her wishes, is something that some observers see as a powerful symbol of his persistence. It suggests, in a way, that he managed to achieve what he wanted, even in death, perhaps defying her stated preferences once again. This aspect of the story adds a layer of intrigue and, to some, a touch of sadness, as it speaks to a dynamic that was, apparently, always present in their bond.

The Burial Site and Public Perception

The Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park Cemetery in Los Angeles is a place where many famous figures find their final peace. It's a spot that, you know, holds a lot of history. Ryan O'Neal's burial there, next to Farrah, was a small, private funeral, taking place over a weekend. For many, the idea of them being together in death was seen as a continuation of their epic love story, a symbol of eternal companionship. It's a very romantic notion, isn't it?

But then, there's the other side of the coin. Not everyone, apparently, saw it that way. Craig Nevius, who was Farrah's former business partner and a friend, and also produced a documentary about her, is one of those who holds a different view. He's quite vocal about it, actually, and is even writing a book that, he says, will deal with the "horrible ways" Ryan O'Neal and Alana Stewart took advantage of Farrah during her illness. This perspective, obviously, casts a very different light on the burial arrangements.

Nevius's comments, and the reports from other sources close to Farrah, create a stark contrast to the public's perception of a unified, loving couple in their final resting place. It highlights how complex personal relationships can be, especially when they involve public figures and, you know, differing accounts from those closest to them. The burial site, in this context, becomes more than just a place of rest; it becomes a point of contention, a silent testament to a very complicated past.

A Relationship of Enduring Love and Complexity

Ryan O'Neal and Farrah Fawcett shared a relationship that, for all its ups and downs, was undeniably enduring. They never actually tied the knot, which is interesting for such a long-term partnership, but their bond was, in many ways, quite profound. When Farrah was facing her final days, battling cancer in 2009, Ryan was, as a matter of fact, right by her side. Her friend Alana Stewart tells us that Farrah took her last breath in Ryan's arms, a detail that, really, speaks volumes about their connection in that moment.

Their story was one that played out in the public eye for years, a bit like a real-life drama, you know? It had its passionate highs and its very public struggles. Ryan, following Farrah's death, often expressed how he felt he didn't get to spend enough time with her. This sentiment, in a way, shows his deep attachment and perhaps a sense of regret or longing for more moments together. It's a feeling many can relate to when losing someone they deeply care about.

Despite the controversies and the differing views on their relationship's dynamics, especially towards the end, the fact remains that they shared a significant portion of their lives together. They had a son, Redmond, who, you know, connects them forever. Their bond, even with all its complexities, was a central part of both their lives, and it continues to be a topic of discussion and fascination for those who followed their journey.

Voices from Farrah's Inner Circle

The notion that Farrah Fawcett didn't want to be buried with Ryan O'Neal isn't just a fleeting rumor; it's something that, apparently, comes directly from those who were closest to her. A source, for instance, who spoke to the New York Post, was quite clear on this point. This wasn't just speculation; it was presented as a direct understanding of Farrah's wishes regarding her final resting place. It's a pretty significant detail, wouldn't you say?

Then there's Craig Nevius, Farrah's former business partner and friend, who produced a documentary about her life. He's been quite outspoken about his perspective on Ryan O'Neal's role in Farrah's life, particularly during her illness. Nevius is, actually, writing a book that, he claims, will detail the "horrible ways" Ryan and Alana Stewart allegedly took advantage of Farrah during that vulnerable time. He even posts about it on his company's Facebook page, Windmill Entertainment, though, you know, he wonders if people really go on Facebook anymore for that kind of news.

Furthermore, Farrah's son, Griffin O'Neal, has also publicly stated that his mother never wanted to be buried with Ryan. These voices, coming from Farrah's inner circle, offer a powerful counter-narrative to the public image of an eternally entwined couple. They suggest that Farrah's personal desires for her burial were, in some respects, quite distinct from the outcome, adding a layer of poignant complexity to the story of her final wishes.

Ryan O'Neal's Final Moments and Legacy

Ryan O'Neal's life came to an end on December 8, 2023, at the age of 82. His passing was attributed to congestive heart failure, a condition often related to cardiomyopathy, though he had also faced chronic leukemia and, later in life, a diagnosis of prostate cancer. He had, you know, battled a number of serious health issues over the years. His burial, as we know, took place at the Pierce Brothers Westwood Memorial Park Cemetery, next to Farrah Fawcett, a couple of weeks after his death.

The funeral service itself was, reportedly, a small affair. It's notable that only one of his four children was in attendance at the memorial service. This detail, in a way, speaks to the complex family dynamics that were, apparently, a part of Ryan O'Neal's life. His son, Patrick, later marked the first Christmas without his dad, posting a message that simply read, "prayers up." It's a quiet reflection on a very personal loss.

Ryan O'Neal's legacy, of course, extends far beyond his relationship with Farrah Fawcett. He was a prominent actor, known for his roles in films like "Love Story," which really cemented his place in Hollywood history. His life, both on and off screen, was often under public scrutiny, and his passing, in some respects, brought renewed attention to the various chapters of his remarkable, yet often turbulent, existence. His story is, you know, one that leaves many reflecting on the nature of fame, love, and family.

The Son, Redmond O'Neal, and Family Dynamics

The enduring relationship between Ryan O'Neal and Farrah Fawcett, though they never married, produced one son, Redmond O'Neal. Redmond's story has, sadly, been quite tragic, marked by a difficult childhood and ongoing struggles with addiction and mental health. His journey has been a very public and, frankly, heartbreaking one, drawing a lot of concern from fans and family alike. It's a situation that, you know, highlights the profound impact of parental relationships on a child's life.

The dynamics within the O'Neal family, as hinted at by the low attendance at Ryan's memorial service, appear to have been complex. The fact that only one of his four children was present speaks volumes about the relationships he maintained, or perhaps struggled to maintain, with his offspring. This is a very personal aspect of a public figure's life that often remains hidden from view, but in this case, it was, apparently, quite evident.

Redmond's situation, in particular, has been a source of much discussion and sadness. His struggles are a stark reminder of the challenges some individuals face, especially when growing up in the shadow of celebrity and complicated family circumstances. The story of Ryan and Farrah, while often romanticized, also carries the weight of these very real, very human struggles, which, you know, continued long after Farrah's passing.

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Why Farrah Fawcett Reportedly Didn't Want To Be Buried With Ryan O'Neal

Table of Contents

Farrah Fawcett: A Brief Look at an Iconic Life

The Reported Wishes: A Different Story Emerges

The Burial Site and Public Perception

A Relationship of Enduring Love and Complexity

Voices from Farrah's Inner Circle

Ryan O'Neal's Final Moments and Legacy

The Son, Redmond O'Neal, and Family Dynamics

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