Born in New York City; educated at NYU (English, philosophy), Juilliard (music), University of Chicago, Chicago Music College, Neighborhood Playhouse (acting) and the Actors Studio. Former jazz pianist who appeared on Broadway and TV before beginning his directing career with series such as "Ben Casey," "I Spy" and "Gunsmoke." Rydell earned critical acclaim for his debut feature, THE FOX (1968), and for CINDERELLA LIBERTY (1973). ON GOLDEN POND (1981) earned him an Oscar® nomination as best director. Other notable directing credits (most of which he also produced) include THE REIVERS (1969), THE COWBOYS (1972), HARRY AND WALTER GO TO NEW YORK (1976), THE ROSE (1979), THE RIVER (1984), FOR THE BOYS (1991), INTERSECTION (1994), EVEN MONEY (2006) and a few made-for-TV movies. Father of actress Amy Rydell.  Nominated for Directing 1981: ON GOLDEN POND 1 nomination