Aug. 2, 2026
American horseman Monty Roberts, famous the world over for his nonviolent training methods, has died at the age of 91.
The trainer, breeder, rodeo rider, and author was labeled a “horse whisperer” and was the inspiration for the central character in Nicholas Evans’ novel and its film adaptation directed by Robert Redford.
Monty Roberts was born on May 14, 1935, as Marvin Earl Roberts in Salinas, California. As the son of a horse trainer, he came into contact with horses and competitive riding at an early age. As a young man, Roberts worked as a stunt double, among other things, and earned a living as a rodeo rider.
His father’s training methods prompted him to develop a different approach to working with horses. As early as the 1960s, he began exploring training methods that were as nonviolent as possible. His work gained wider public attention starting in the 1980s. For Roberts, the focus was on communication between humans and horses, as well as a willingness to regularly reevaluate his own approach.
The “Join-Up” method he developed became particularly well-known. Roberts presented this method, among other things, as a guest lecturer. He later supplemented his approach with the “Follow-Up” method. In the 1990s, Roberts published several books that were translated into several languages and available around the world.
He also gained international attention through his work with Queen Elizabeth II’s horses. This part of his career was featured in the documentary “The Cowboy and the Queen,” released in 2023.
The American mustang Shy Boy played a special role in Roberts’ life. The horse died a few months before Roberts, at the age of 33. Shy Boy also became well-known through joint demonstrations and publications. The relationship between Roberts and the mustang exemplified his approach of placing trust and voluntary cooperation at the center of training.
His daughters, Debbie Roberts Loucks and Laurel Roberts, continue to run the Monty Roberts California Horse Center. In addition, certified Monty Roberts instructors work in various countries according to the principles he developed.
